Baked Shrimp and Feta Appetizer

How to Make

• Step 1: Onions ... Bring a non-stick medium size pan up to medium-high heat; then, add the olive oil and onions and cook 3-4 minutes until tender, stirring often. Then, reduce the heat to medium, add the garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook another minute or two.

• Step 2: Sauce ... Add the ouzo (make sure to remove from the heat while doing this), then the tomatoes, oregano, and, a pinch of both salt and pepper; simmer on medium low heat for 5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken. Then, add the capers, olives, roasted red peppers, and shrimp and remove from the heat. Toss, just to combine all the ingredients. Add the parsley and season again with salt and pepper if necessary. Remember, the Feta on top is salty as is the olives and capers; also the red pepper flakes are spicy so you shouldn't need to much salt and pepper. Also, taste if you want any extra ouzo. I happen to enjoy the flavor, but some may find it very strong. You can add a bit more at this point if you want.

• Step 3: Bake ... Ladle the shrimp mixture into 4 small individual baking dishes (ramekins), or 2 larger dishes sprayed with a non-stick spray. Again, this makes 4 small appetizers - or 2 main dishes. Top with the feta cheese and bake (uncovered) for 10 minutes in a 425 degree oven on the middle shelf.

• Step 4: Serve ... With lots fresh bread to soak up the sauce. I just tore pieces of a baguette rather than slicing it (more rustic and easy). You could toast the bread too if you wanted; but, I just wrapped up the loaf in foil to heat up as the shrimp baked. It was toasted ... just warm. ENJOY! as an appetizer, or a fantastic main dish.