Shrimp and Feta Greek Style Pizza: A Taste of the Mediterranean

The first time I had anything remotely like this Shrimp and Feta Greek Style Pizza, I was backpacking through the Greek Islands. It wasn’t actually a pizza, but a small taverna in Mykonos served grilled shrimp with feta, olives, and herbs on crusty bread, drizzled with olive oil. The salty sea air, the taste of briny feta, and the sweet, succulent shrimp—it was pure magic. This pizza captures that same vibrant, sun-drenched flavor, transporting me back to that unforgettable summer with every bite.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Yield: 1 pizza
• Dietary Type: Mediterranean-inspired

Ingredients

• 1 pound uncooked medium-sized shrimp, shelled
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 1/2 ounces crumbled feta cheese
• 2 teaspoons rosemary, crushed
• 1 tablespoon cornmeal
• 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup sliced green onion
• 2 1/4 ounces sliced olives
• Homemade or store-bought pizza dough, enough for 1 pizza

Equipment Needed

• 12-inch pizza pan or 13×9-inch baking pan
• Large skillet
• Oven

Instructions

1. Begin by shelling the shrimp and setting them aside. Ensure they are patted dry with paper towels to promote even cooking.

2. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving a crisp crust and perfectly cooked toppings.

3. Grease either a 12-inch pizza pan or a 13×9-inch baking pan thoroughly. Then, sprinkle the pan evenly with cornmeal. The cornmeal will prevent the dough from sticking and add a delightful textural contrast to the crust.

4. Place the pizza dough in the prepared pan and spread it evenly to cover the base. Ensure the dough isn’t too thin in any area, as it needs to support the weight of the toppings.

5. Bake the dough in the preheated oven for 5 minutes, or until it is very lightly browned. This pre-baking step is essential for preventing a soggy bottom crust.

6. Remove the partially baked crust from the oven and sprinkle it evenly with the shredded mozzarella cheese. This layer of cheese will act as a barrier between the crust and the wetter toppings.

7. While the crust is pre-baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

8. Add the shrimp and minced garlic to the hot oil.

9. Cook the shrimp until they are light pink and just cooked through, about 1 minute. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

10. Spoon the cooked shrimp and garlic mixture evenly over the mozzarella cheese-covered crust.

11. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese, sliced green onions, crushed rosemary, and sliced olives evenly over the shrimp. The combination of salty feta, fresh herbs, and briny olives creates the signature Greek flavor profile of this pizza.

12. Bake the pizza at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on the pizza to prevent the crust from burning.

13. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the shrimp. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure they cook evenly and don’t steam.
• For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano for about 30 minutes before cooking.
• If you prefer a crispier crust, place the pizza stone in the oven while preheating. Transfer the assembled pizza to the hot stone for baking.
• To prevent the crust from getting too dark, tent it loosely with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
• Fresh rosemary makes a big difference! If possible, use fresh rosemary instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor. Gently crush the fresh rosemary between your fingers to release its oils before adding it to the pizza.
• If you have any leftover roasted vegetables (like bell peppers or zucchini), consider adding them to the pizza for extra flavor and nutrition.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Shrimp and Feta Greek Style Pizza hot from the oven, sliced into wedges. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the pizza beautifully. You can also drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top before serving for added richness.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual slices in a microwave, but the crust will be less crispy. Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture of the crust and toppings.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	276 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	151 kcal	55%
Total Fat	16.8 g	25%
Saturated Fat	7.4 g	37%
Cholesterol	182 mg	60%
Sodium	1155.7 mg	48%
Total Carbohydrate	6 g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0.9 g	3%
Sugars	1.2 g	4%
Protein	24.9 g	49%

Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pizza dough for a gluten-free option.
• Vegetarian: Omit the shrimp and add more vegetables such as sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp while cooking for a little heat.
• Cheese Swap: Substitute goat cheese for feta cheese for a tangier flavor.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs such as oregano, thyme, or dill in place of rosemary.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Be sure to thaw them completely before cooking and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.

Q: Can I make the pizza dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this pizza?
A: Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Q: How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
A: Pre-baking the crust for a few minutes before adding the toppings helps to create a barrier and prevent it from becoming soggy. Also, avoid overloading the pizza with too many wet ingredients.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella cheese?
A: While pre-shredded mozzarella cheese is convenient, freshly shredded mozzarella will melt more smoothly and have a better flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Shrimp and Feta Greek Style Pizza brings a little taste of the Mediterranean into your kitchen. The combination of fresh flavors and simple ingredients makes it a satisfying and delicious meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your own variations and substitutions to create a pizza that perfectly suits your taste. And, as always, I’d love to hear your feedback and see your creations! Pair this pizza with a crisp white wine for the ultimate Mediterranean experience.