Discover a delicious and budget-friendly dinner recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week: Classic Shakshuka with Feta. This savory, one-pan dish combines rich tomato sauce, perfectly poached eggs, and tangy feta cheese, offering a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and light on your wallet.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes work well too.
- Eggs: The star of shakshuka; choose large eggs.
- Feta Cheese: Goat cheese or cotija can be used for a similar salty kick.
- Onion & Bell Pepper: Essential for flavor; use any color bell pepper you have.
- Garlic: Fresh is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
- Spices: Paprika, cumin, and a pinch of chili flakes add warmth.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Crusty bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 280 calories
- Tools Needed: Large skillet with a lid
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This builds a flavorful base for your budget-friendly dinner recipes.
2. Add Garlic and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant. Make sure not to burn the garlic.
3. Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Create Wells for Eggs
Using the back of a spoon, create six small indentations in the tomato sauce. Carefully crack an egg into each well. This prepares the shakshuka for perfect poaching.
5. Cook the Eggs
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 5-8 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and the yolks are still runny (or cooked to your preference). Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the eggs and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve immediately with crusty bread. This makes a fantastic budget-friendly dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add extra chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Greens Boost: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of sauce simmering.
- Herby Freshness: Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill or oregano.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover shakshuka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the eggs. It’s a great option for future budget-friendly dinner recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I make shakshuka ahead of time?
You can prepare the tomato sauce ahead and store it in the fridge. Cook the eggs just before serving for the best results.
What kind of skillet should I use?
A large, oven-safe skillet (cast iron or stainless steel) with a lid is ideal.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can. You’ll need about 6-8 ripe fresh tomatoes, chopped. You might need to simmer longer to reduce the liquid.
What if I don’t have all the spices?
The cumin and paprika are key, but you can adjust other spices to what you have on hand.
Is this dish naturally gluten-free?
Yes, Classic Shakshuka with Feta is naturally gluten-free. Serve with gluten-free bread if needed.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots can be added with the onions and bell peppers for an even heartier budget-friendly dinner recipe.