When I first encountered shakshuka, that delightful dish of poached eggs nestled in a spicy tomato sauce, I quickly realized that it desperately needed a companion. The options? Endless!
I found that a crusty slice of sourdough bread is the ultimate partner, perfect for scooping up every last bit of the dish. Alternatively, warm pita bread can add a soft, pillowy texture, making every bite a bit more indulgent.
A refreshing salad or some pickled vegetables balance the comforting, rich flavors beautifully.
Now, let’s dig into why shakshuka, especially with a sprinkle of feta, is not just a meal—it’s a culinary experience.
Why Shakshuka with Feta?
As I dabbled in cooking, shakshuka caught my attention as a versatile dish that could fit any meal. Breakfast?
Check. Brunch? You bet. Light lunch or dinner? Absolutely. Not to mention, it’s an appealing option for any gathering. It’s vibrant in color, packed with flavor, and full of nutritional value.
In my journey as a food enthusiast, I crave recipes that offer freshness and flavor without demanding a ton of time. Shakshuka fits that mold perfectly.
The vibrant combination of spices, tomatoes, and eggs speaks for itself. And then there’s feta—crumbling that creamy cheese atop brings everything together in a beautiful medley.
I’ve experimented with this recipe countless times. Some days, I throw in leftover veggies; other times, I double down on the spices. It rewards your creativity and hunger. Plus, when you have something this appealing on your table, it feels like a mini celebration.
Ingredients for Shakshuka with Feta
Here’s what you’ll need for a serving of 4:
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, julienned
- 2 (14-ounce) cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 5-6 large eggs
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese, plus extra for topping
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
- Crusty sourdough or pita bread, for serving
How to Make Shakshuka with Feta
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
In a large skillet, or a cast-iron pan if you have one, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. This is where the magic begins! When the oil shimmers, it’s time to add the onion.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Throw in the sliced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent—about 5 minutes. Next, toss in the garlic and red bell pepper. Stir it all together and let those flavors meld for another 4-5 minutes. The aroma will already be enticing!
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Spices
Once your veggies are softened, pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes. The taste is noticeably richer than regular canned tomatoes. Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, and crushed red pepper flakes. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Give everything a good stir, allowing the spices to blend into the sauce for 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: Create Wells and Add Eggs
Now the fun part! Use a spoon to make little wells in the sauce and carefully crack the eggs into each well. Don’t fret about a bit of tomato sauce splashing. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny, about 6-8 minutes.
Step 5: Sprinkle with Feta
When the eggs are done to your liking, take off the lid and sprinkle the feta cheese over the top. You can add more if you’re feeling indulgent. A little extra never hurts, right?
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve steaming hot with slices of crusty sourdough or warm pita bread. Get ready for some delightful feasting!
Recipe Notes
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Using high-quality olive oil enhances flavor significantly.
- Fresh Garlic: Always choose fresh. Powdered garlic just doesn’t cut it here.
- Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: They offer a smokier flavor that elevates everything.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs are best as they yield a creamier yolk.
- Feta Cheese: Quality counts! Opt for crumbled feta made from sheep’s milk for a deeper flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Use whichever one speaks to you. Both parsley and cilantro add a fresh finish.
Recipe Variations
Not feeling feta? No worries! Here are some enjoyable variations:
- Spinach Shakshuka: Add a few handfuls of fresh spinach to the mix before adding the eggs.
- Spicy Harissa Shakshuka: Stir in a tablespoon of harissa paste for a North African twist.
- Chickpea Shakshuka: Toss in a can of chickpeas for added protein and texture.
- Baked Shakshuka: Transfer to the oven to bake at 375°F instead of stovetop for a fuller texture.
- Vegetable Shakshuka: Throw in diced zucchini or eggplant for extra nutrients.
- Cheesy Shakshuka: Swap feta with mozzarella or gouda for a gooey version.
Conclusion
There you have it—a comprehensive take on shakshuka with feta. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also warms your spirit.
The vibrant colors, combined with the rich flavors and textures, create a delightful experience. Whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this dish invites creativity and customization.
As a registered dietitian and food lover, I encourage you to make it your own. Explore different variations, try new spices, or experiment with whatever you have in your pantry.
One thing’s for sure: shakshuka with feta will quickly become a family favorite. So roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Your taste buds will thank you
You’ll also like the following recipes!
- Shakshuka with Eggplant Copycat Recipe
- How to Make Shakshuka Fresh Tomatoes
- Best Shakshuka Recipe Jamie Oliver
Shakshuka with Feta Recipe – Great Meal Recipes
Description
When I first encountered shakshuka, that delightful dish of poached eggs nestled in a spicy tomato sauce, I quickly realized that it desperately needed a companion. The options? Endless!
I found that a crusty slice of sourdough bread is the ultimate partner, perfect for scooping up every last bit of the dish. Alternatively, warm pita bread can add a soft, pillowy texture, making every bite a bit more indulgent.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
-
In a large skillet, or a cast-iron pan if you have one, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. This is where the magic begins! When the oil shimmers, it’s time to add the onion.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
-
Throw in the sliced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent—about 5 minutes. Next, toss in the garlic and red bell pepper. Stir it all together and let those flavors meld for another 4-5 minutes. The aroma will already be enticing!
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Spices
-
Once your veggies are softened, pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes. The taste is noticeably richer than regular canned tomatoes. Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, and crushed red pepper flakes. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Give everything a good stir, allowing the spices to blend into the sauce for 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: Create Wells and Add Eggs
-
Now the fun part! Use a spoon to make little wells in the sauce and carefully crack the eggs into each well. Don’t fret about a bit of tomato sauce splashing. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny, about 6-8 minutes.
Step 5: Sprinkle with Feta
-
When the eggs are done to your liking, take off the lid and sprinkle the feta cheese over the top. You can add more if you’re feeling indulgent. A little extra never hurts, right?
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
-
Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve steaming hot with slices of crusty sourdough or warm pita bread. Get ready for some delightful feasting!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 5
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 160kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9.5g15%
- Saturated Fat 3.8g19%
- Cholesterol 215mg72%
- Sodium 369mg16%
- Total Carbohydrate 13g5%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 7g15%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Using high-quality olive oil enhances flavor significantly.
- Fresh Garlic: Always choose fresh. Powdered garlic just doesn’t cut it here.
- Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: They offer a smokier flavor that elevates everything.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs are best as they yield a creamier yolk.
- Feta Cheese: Quality counts! Opt for crumbled feta made from sheep’s milk for a deeper flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Use whichever one speaks to you. Both parsley and cilantro add a fresh finish.
