Mediterranean Sheet Pan Shrimp
If you’re on the hunt for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your kitchen, look no further than this Mediterranean Sheet Pan Shrimp. Bursting with fresh vegetables, zesty lemon, and succulent shrimp, this dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. The best part? Everything cooks together on a single sheet pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it shine on your dinner table.
Why I Love This Recipe
This Mediterranean Sheet Pan Shrimp is truly a culinary delight. The combination of juicy shrimp, roasted vegetables, and creamy feta cheese creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Not only is it visually stunning with its array of colors, but it’s also a healthy meal option packed with protein and nutrients. The versatility of this dish allows you to swap in whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand, making it a year-round favorite. Plus, the whole meal is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 1 lb (16 oz) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 Tbsp avocado oil
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp sea salt, to taste
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 10 ounces cherry tomatoes
- 1 8-oz block feta cheese, chopped into cubes
- 6 ounces pitted kalamata olives
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper (optional)
- Sea salt, to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Appliances & Accessories
- Sheet pan: Essential for roasting all the ingredients together.
- Mixing bowl: For tossing the shrimp and vegetables with the marinade.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping the vegetables and cheese.
- Measuring spoons: To ensure you get the perfect balance of flavors.
- Garlic press: Optional, but it makes mincing garlic much easier.
Mediterranean Sheet Pan Shrimp: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the shrimp and vegetables to achieve that delightful caramelization.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp, avocado oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well coated.
Step 3: Chop the Vegetables
While your shrimp marinates, chop the zucchini into bite-sized pieces, slice the red onion, and prepare the cherry tomatoes. The mix of these vegetables will add both color and flavor to your dish.
Step 4: Assemble on the Sheet Pan
On a large sheet pan, spread out the chopped zucchini, sliced red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with a bit of avocado oil and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Toss to combine.
Step 5: Add Shrimp and Feta
Next, pour the marinated shrimp over the vegetables. Add the chopped feta cheese and kalamata olives to the pan, distributing them evenly.
Step 6: Roast in the Oven
Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, and the vegetables are tender. If you like a bit of char, you can broil for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, remove the sheet pan from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve the Mediterranean Sheet Pan Shrimp directly from the pan, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy it over a bed of rice, quinoa, or simply on its own.
In-Season Swaps
- Asparagus: Substitute asparagus for zucchini in the spring for a fresh twist.
- Bell Peppers: Add sliced bell peppers for a sweet crunch.
- Spinach: Toss in some fresh spinach during the last few minutes of roasting for added greens.
- Green Beans: Use green beans instead of zucchini for a different texture.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
- Overcooked Shrimp: Keep an eye on your shrimp while roasting. They cook quickly, and overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque.
- Burnt Vegetables: If your vegetables are browning too quickly, cover the pan loosely with foil to protect them while allowing the shrimp to finish cooking.
- Too Salty: Taste before serving; you can always add more salt later, but it’s hard to take it away. Adjust the salt in your marinade to your preference.
- Dry Shrimp: Make sure to coat the shrimp well with oil and lemon juice to keep them moist during roasting.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
You can make this Mediterranean Sheet Pan Shrimp ahead of time for a quick dinner solution. Marinate the shrimp and chop the vegetables a few hours in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roast. This will save you time and allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to keep the feta and olives separate until ready to cook to maintain their freshness.
Reader Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating. This will help achieve the best texture when cooking.
What can I serve with Mediterranean Sheet Pan Shrimp?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of couscous, rice, or a light Mediterranean salad. You can also serve it with warm pita bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Can I substitute the feta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with goat cheese or omit it altogether. You could also use a dairy-free cheese alternative if needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Make It Tonight
There’s no reason to wait to indulge in this Mediterranean Sheet Pan Shrimp. With its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation, it’s a delightful dinner that will impress your family and friends alike. Perfect for busy nights or leisurely weekends, this dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the Mediterranean magic unfold in your kitchen tonight!
Mediterranean Sheet Pan Shrimp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the shrimp and vegetables to achieve that delightful caramelization.
- Step 2: Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp, avocado oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well coated.
- Step 3: Chop the Vegetables: While your shrimp marinates, chop the zucchini into bite-sized pieces, slice the red onion, and prepare the cherry tomatoes. The mix of these vegetables will add both color and flavor to your dish.
- Step 4: Assemble on the Sheet Pan: On a large sheet pan, spread out the chopped zucchini, sliced red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with a bit of avocado oil and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Toss to combine.
- Step 5: Add Shrimp and Feta: Next, pour the marinated shrimp over the vegetables. Add the chopped feta cheese and kalamata olives to the pan, distributing them evenly.
- Step 6: Roast in the Oven: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, and the vegetables are tender. If you like a bit of char, you can broil for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end.
- Step 7: Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove the sheet pan from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve the Mediterranean Sheet Pan Shrimp directly from the pan, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy it over a bed of rice, quinoa, or simply on its own.
Notes
- Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables for added freshness.
- Make sure to not overcook the shrimp to avoid rubbery texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
