Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)

Introduction

Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) is a dish that perfectly embodies the bold and vibrant flavors of Spain. It’s incredibly simple to make, yet packs a punch with its rich, garlicky sauce and subtle hints of spice. The shrimp are sautéed in olive oil, where they absorb all the aromatic goodness from the garlic, red pepper flakes, and a splash of dry sherry or white wine, resulting in a sauce that’s full of flavor and begging to be sopped up with some crusty bread. It’s one of those dishes that’s easy to whip up, but sure to impress anyone lucky enough to try it!

I’ll never forget the first time I had Gambas al Ajillo on a summer evening in Spain. The combination of garlic, olive oil, and shrimp left such an impression on me that I immediately knew I had to recreate it at home. Since then, it’s become a staple in my kitchen, whether I’m hosting a tapas night or simply craving a quick and satisfying seafood dish. What I love most about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can easily adjust the amount of garlic and spice to suit your taste. The shrimp cook in just a few minutes, making it a perfect dish for when you’re short on time but still want something special.

Spanish Garlic Shrimp is the kind of dish that’s perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy date night, a festive tapas party, or just when you want a little taste of Spain. The key is using the best quality shrimp you can find, as they are the star of the show. Serve them with a side of bread or over a bed of rice, and you’ll have a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor!

Perfect for:

• Tapas parties
• Seafood lovers
• Quick weeknight dinners
• Summer gatherings
• Special occasions

Why You’ll Love This Spanish Garlic Shrimp

Here’s why Spanish Garlic Shrimp will quickly become a favorite:

• Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, chili, and olive oil infuses the shrimp with bold, aromatic flavors that are impossible to resist.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you need a fast yet impressive dish.
• Versatile: While often served as a tapa, it also works wonderfully as a main dish over pasta, rice, or alongside a salad.
• Authentic Spanish Experience: This dish is a true representation of Spanish culinary traditions, often served in small clay pots to bring out the rustic charm of Mediterranean cooking.
• Customizable Spice Level: You can adjust the amount of chili or paprika to suit your preferred spice level, from mild to fiery hot.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 22g, Carbs: 3g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Spanish Garlic Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1-2 dried red chilies (or 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Optional: 2 tablespoons white wine or sherry (for added depth)

Ingredient Highlights

• Shrimp: Fresh or frozen large shrimp are ideal for this dish, as they provide a tender and juicy bite that pairs perfectly with the bold garlic flavor.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich, fruity flavor that coats the shrimp and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Garlic: The garlic is sliced thinly to infuse the oil with its fragrant aroma, creating a foundation of flavor.
• Dried Red Chilies/Crushed Red Pepper: This ingredient adds a hint of heat and spice, which balances out the richness of the olive oil and garlic.
• Smoked Paprika: A quintessential Spanish spice, smoked paprika provides a deep, smoky flavor that gives the dish its distinct taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Spanish Garlic Shrimp:

Prepare the Shrimp:

1. Peel and Devein the Shrimp: If not already done, peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on for added presentation.
2. Pat the Shrimp Dry: Use paper towels to gently pat the shrimp dry. This ensures they cook properly and sear beautifully.

Cook the Garlic and Oil:

3. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
4. Add Garlic and Chilies: Add the sliced garlic and dried red chilies (or crushed red pepper flakes) to the hot oil. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and golden brown, being careful not to burn it.

Cook the Shrimp:

5. Add the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, until they turn pink and begin to curl up.
6. Flip the Shrimp: Flip the shrimp over and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side, until fully cooked through and opaque. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add Smoked Paprika: Sprinkle the smoked paprika over the shrimp and stir gently to coat them evenly in the spices.

Finish the Dish:

8. Optional Wine or Sherry: For added depth, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or sherry, scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom of the skillet.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness.

How to Serve Spanish Garlic Shrimp

Spanish Garlic Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways:

• As a Tapas Dish: Serve the shrimp hot from the skillet or in small clay dishes for an authentic Spanish tapas experience.
• With Crusty Bread: Pair the shrimp with slices of warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful garlic and olive oil sauce.
• Over Pasta or Rice: Serve the shrimp over a bed of pasta or rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
• With a Side Salad: A light side salad with fresh greens and a citrus dressing complements the richness of the shrimp perfectly.
• As Part of a Mediterranean Spread: Add this dish to a Mediterranean platter alongside olives, cheese, and roasted vegetables for a delightful spread.

Additional Tips for Spanish Garlic Shrimp

Here are some tips to ensure your Spanish Garlic Shrimp is perfectly made:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. Overcooking them will make them rubbery, so watch carefully and remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Use High-Quality Olive Oil: Since olive oil is the base of this dish, using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the overall flavor.
• Control the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili or red pepper flakes depending on how spicy you like your dish.
• Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic works best for this dish as it gives a stronger, more aromatic flavor.
• Double the Recipe: If you’re serving a crowd, double the recipe. It’s easy to make more of this dish, and it’s always a hit at parties or family gatherings.

Recipe Variations for Spanish Garlic Shrimp

Here are 10 variations you can try for Spanish Garlic Shrimp:

• Add Chili Flakes: For a spicier kick, incorporate chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies into the oil.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Swap parsley for fresh thyme or rosemary to give the dish an earthy twist.
• Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest along with the garlic for a refreshing citrus flavor that complements the shrimp.
• Serve with a Splash of White Wine: After sautéing the shrimp, deglaze the pan with a little white wine for extra depth and flavor.
• Coconut Oil: For a subtle tropical flavor, use coconut oil instead of olive oil to cook the garlic and shrimp.
• Roast the Garlic: Instead of sautéing, roast the garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp.
• Tomato and Paprika: Stir in diced tomatoes and smoked paprika for a richer, more savory variation of Gambas al Ajillo.
• Add Chopped Bell Peppers: For extra texture and flavor, toss in some chopped bell peppers when cooking the shrimp.
• Serve with a Tomato Salad: Serve the shrimp over a fresh, tangy tomato salad for a lighter, refreshing twist on the classic.
• Incorporate Almonds: Toast some slivered almonds in the oil with the garlic for an added crunch and nutty flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: While shrimp is best when freshly cooked, you can freeze any leftover shrimp. Allow them to cool, then store in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
• Storage: Leftover shrimp can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep them in an airtight container to retain freshness. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve flavor.

Special Equipment for Spanish Garlic Shrimp

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Spanish Garlic Shrimp easier:

• Large Skillet or Frying Pan: A wide skillet ensures the shrimp cook evenly and gives you plenty of room to sauté the garlic.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife helps slice the garlic thinly for even cooking and flavor distribution.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Tongs are perfect for flipping the shrimp without damaging them, and a slotted spoon is great for transferring them to a serving dish.
• Small Clay Pot (Optional): If you want to recreate the traditional Spanish tapas experience, serve the shrimp in small clay dishes.
• Measuring Spoons: For precise measurements of paprika, salt, and red pepper flakes.

FAQ Section for Spanish Garlic Shrimp

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
   Yes, frozen shrimp will work. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking.
2. Can I use a different type of oil?
   While olive oil is traditional and adds great flavor, you can use other oils like avocado oil or vegetable oil if needed.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   While the shrimp is best served fresh, you can prepare the garlic and chili oil in advance and cook the shrimp just before serving.
4. Is this dish spicy?
   It can be! You can control the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili or red pepper flakes used.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
   This dish pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or pasta, and a light salad for a complete meal.

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Conclusion

Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) is a deliciously simple dish that captures the essence of Spanish cuisine. The succulent shrimp are infused with garlic and cooked in olive oil, creating a bold and savory flavor that’s sure to please. With just a few ingredients, this dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for both casual tapas gatherings and more formal dinners. It’s a dish that’s packed with flavor, yet easy enough for any home cook to recreate.

This recipe’s versatility allows you to adjust the level of spice to your liking—add a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick, or keep it mild for a more traditional taste. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlicky oil or pair it with a light salad for a refreshing contrast. Whether you serve it as a tapas appetizer or as the main course, Spanish Garlic Shrimp is sure to impress.

I’d love to see how your Spanish Garlic Shrimp turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram so I can check out your delicious creation. Share your thoughts in the comments and let me know how you made this dish your own! Enjoy cooking!