Looking for a flavorful and easy mediterranean dinner recipe? This Skillet Shakshuka with Feta is a vibrant one-pan meal perfect for any night of the week. You’ll love the rich tomato sauce, perfectly poached eggs, and tangy feta cheese.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce.
- Eggs: No substitutes for the eggs in shakshuka!
- Feta Cheese: Goat cheese or crumbled halloumi work well if you prefer.
- Bell Pepper: Any color bell pepper is fine, or omit if you’re not a fan.
- Spinach: Kale or other hearty greens can be added for extra nutrition.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, cored and diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional for Serving:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Warm pita bread or crusty bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large oven-safe skillet (10-12 inch), spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in your large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until they soften, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
2. Add Garlic and Spices
Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This step really builds the flavor for your mediterranean dinner recipe.
3. Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Incorporate Spinach and Create Wells
Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts into the sauce. Make six small indentations or “wells” in the tomato sauce using the back of a spoon. These will hold your eggs.
5. Crack in the Eggs
Carefully crack one egg into each well you created in the sauce. Season the eggs lightly with salt and pepper.
6. Cook the Eggs
Cover the skillet again and continue to cook over low heat for 5-8 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and the yolks are still a little runny. You can also transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes if your skillet is oven-safe.
7. Finish with Feta and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese generously over the shakshuka. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve immediately with warm pita or crusty bread for a complete mediterranean dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Hearty Version: Stir in cooked chickpeas or cannellini beans with the tomatoes.
- Herbaceous: Mix in fresh oregano or thyme with the spices.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Skillet Shakshuka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Be aware that the egg yolks may cook further upon reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make shakshuka ahead of time?
You can prepare the tomato sauce base a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Then, simply reheat the sauce and add the eggs just before serving.
What kind of skillet should you use?
A 10-12 inch cast iron or other oven-safe skillet is ideal for this mediterranean dinner recipe, as it distributes heat evenly and can go from stovetop to oven if needed.
Can you add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms can be added with the onions and bell peppers for more vegetable goodness.
Is shakshuka a breakfast or dinner dish?
While often enjoyed for breakfast or brunch, shakshuka makes a fantastic and satisfying mediterranean dinner recipe as well.
How do you know when the eggs are done?
The egg whites should be fully set, but the yolks can remain runny, depending on your preference. Cook longer for firmer yolks.
What should you serve with shakshuka?
Warm pita bread, crusty bread, or even a side salad are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.