Mediterranean Shrimp

This Sheet Pan Mediterranean Shrimp is a quick and colorful one-pan meal, perfect for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining. Juicy shrimp are marinated with olive oil, garlic, paprika, and lemon, then roasted alongside tender asparagus and red onions. Finished with feta, olives, and fresh herbs, it brings bold Mediterranean flavor with minimal effort—ready in just 18 minutes!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 1½ lb large shrimp, peeled

  • 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed

  • 4 Tbsp olive oil, divided

  • 5 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 red onion, sliced

  • ½ Tbsp oregano

  • ½ Tbsp smoked paprika

  • 1 tsp sea salt

  • Ground black pepper, to taste

  • Juice of 1 lemon

  • 1 cup black olives (or kalamata)

  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

  • ⅓ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).

  2. In a bowl, combine shrimp with 2 Tbsp olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.

  3. Arrange asparagus on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 Tbsp olive oil.

  4. Place shrimp on top of asparagus, then add red onion slices.

  5. Bake for 10 minutes or until shrimp is pink and slightly golden at the edges.

  6. Remove from oven and top with feta, olives, fresh herbs, and drizzle with remaining olive oil.

  7. Serve immediately, optionally with crusty bread or lemon wedges.

Nutrients (per serving, approx. 4 servings)

  • Calories: 423 kcal

  • Protein: 32g

  • Fat: 29g

    • Saturated Fat: 8g

  • Carbohydrates: 10g

    • Fiber: 4g

    • Sugar: 2g

  • Cholesterol: 248mg

  • Sodium: 2502mg

  • Potassium: 488mg

  • Vitamin A: 1549 IU

  • Vitamin C: 8mg

  • Calcium: 340mg

  • Iron: 4mg

Sheet Pan Mediterranean Shrimp: A Flavor-Packed, Easy Weeknight Meal

Sheet Pan Mediterranean Shrimp is a vibrant and wholesome dish that perfectly balances bold Mediterranean flavors with the convenience of one-pan cooking. Designed for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining, this recipe brings together juicy, tender shrimp, fresh asparagus, and red onions, all roasted to perfection in a single baking sheet. The finishing touches of creamy feta, briny olives, and fresh herbs add layers of flavor and texture that elevate this simple dish to something truly special.

This recipe exemplifies the beauty of Mediterranean cuisine—fresh, clean ingredients combined in a way that’s both healthy and satisfying. The marinade of olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, and lemon juice infuses the shrimp with aromatic notes that are savory, slightly smoky, and citrusy. The asparagus provides a crisp and slightly earthy contrast to the tender shrimp, while the red onions add sweetness as they caramelize during roasting. The final sprinkle of feta and olives introduces a creamy and salty dimension, completing the flavor profile.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

One of the standout features of this dish is its simplicity and speed. Cooking everything on one sheet pan minimizes prep time and cleanup, making it an ideal weeknight meal for those who want to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen. The high oven temperature helps to roast the shrimp and vegetables quickly, locking in juices and producing a delightful texture—shrimp that are perfectly cooked, slightly crispy around the edges, and vegetables that retain a tender-crisp bite.

Another advantage is the balance of nutrients. Shrimp are an excellent source of lean protein and are low in calories, while asparagus contributes fiber, vitamins, and minerals, especially vitamin A and C. Feta cheese provides calcium and a satisfying creaminess, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritionally well-rounded.

Tips for Perfect Sheet Pan Mediterranean Shrimp

To get the best results, it’s important to ensure even cooking. Spread the asparagus and shrimp out evenly on the pan to avoid overcrowding, which can cause steaming instead of roasting. Marinating the shrimp for at least 10–15 minutes before roasting allows the flavors to penetrate more deeply, enhancing every bite.

If fresh asparagus is not in season, you can substitute it with other vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, or zucchini. Additionally, the choice of olives can be adjusted based on personal preference—kalamata olives are traditional and add a robust flavor, but milder black olives also work well.

For those who enjoy a bit more heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes added to the marinade or sprinkled on top before serving can bring a subtle spicy kick. Pairing the dish with crusty bread or warm pita is perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices left on the pan.

Nutritional Highlights

This recipe offers a balanced mix of macronutrients, with a solid protein punch from shrimp, healthy fats from olive oil and feta, and complex carbohydrates and fiber from the vegetables. It is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets, while also being rich in essential vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, potassium, and vitamins A and C. The sodium content is moderate to high, primarily due to the feta and olives, so it’s advisable to adjust the added salt according to dietary needs.

Versatility and Serving Suggestions

Sheet Pan Mediterranean Shrimp is a flexible dish that can be customized to suit various tastes and occasions. It works beautifully as a standalone meal or can be served alongside a light grain such as couscous, quinoa, or rice for those wanting a heartier option. A fresh side salad or a simple tzatziki sauce would complement the Mediterranean flavors nicely.

This recipe also lends itself well to entertaining. The vibrant colors and aromas make for an impressive presentation, and the hands-off cooking approach allows hosts to spend more time with guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

Conclusion

Sheet Pan Mediterranean Shrimp is a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when thoughtfully combined, can create a flavorful, nutritious, and visually appealing meal. It embodies the essence of Mediterranean cooking with its emphasis on fresh produce, herbs, and healthy fats, all while being incredibly easy to prepare.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution after a busy day or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Minimal prep, one-pan convenience, and bold, fresh flavors make it a must-try for anyone seeking delicious and healthy meals without fuss. Enjoy the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean with this effortless shrimp dinner that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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