The Perfect Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) Recipe

Succulent spanish garlic shrimp dance with aromatic flavors that instantly transport you to sunny mediterranean coastlines.

Salty ocean memories mingle perfectly with robust garlic notes.

Coastal spanish kitchens have perfected this delightful seafood classic for generations.

Tender shrimp absorb rich olive oil and pungent garlic, creating an irresistible harmony of tastes.

Delicate yet bold, these gambas al ajillo promise a quick culinary adventure anyone can master.

Simple ingredients and quick cooking make this dish a weeknight game-changer.

Dive into this recipe and let your taste buds sail across spanish shores.

Why Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas Al Ajillo) Wows Every Time

• Quick Flavor Explosion: Bursting with bold Spanish-inspired tastes that transport your taste buds straight to a vibrant Mediterranean kitchen.
• Super Simple Cooking: Requires minimal ingredients and basic cooking skills, making it perfect for home cooks of all experience levels who want an impressive dish.
• Restaurant-Quality Meal at Home: Delivers gourmet restaurant flavors without complex techniques, allowing you to create a professional-style appetizer or main course in minutes.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Works brilliantly as a tapas-style starter, light main course, or party appetizer that appeals to seafood lovers and impresses dinner guests with its authentic Spanish charm.

What You’ll Need For Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas Al Ajillo)

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that serves as the star of this classic Spanish tapas dish.

• Garlic, Smoked Paprika, Red Pepper Flakes, Salt: These ingredients provide deep flavor and a slight kick to the shrimp.

• Olive Oil: Provides the base for cooking and adds rich Mediterranean flavor.
• Sherry, White Wine: Adds depth and helps create a delicious pan sauce.
• Parsley: Fresh herb that brings brightness and color to the finished dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful garlic-infused oil.

Easy Cooking Guide For Gambas Al Ajillo

Step 1: Warm Up the Skillet

Select a large skillet and drizzle olive oil across its surface, setting the heat to medium. Allow the oil to shimmer and become hot, preparing for the garlic’s grand entrance.

Step 2: Release Garlic’s Aroma

Scatter thinly sliced garlic into the heated oil. Gently stir and watch as the garlic begins to dance and release its fragrant essence, turning a delicate golden color after 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Introduce Succulent Shrimp

• Smoked paprika
• Red pepper flakes
• Salt

Ensure each shrimp is coated with the spicy blend.

Step 4: Cook Shrimp to Perfection

Sizzle the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, transforming them from translucent to a beautiful pink and opaque appearance.

Step 5: Splash of Liquid Magic

Pour sherry or white wine into the skillet, allowing the liquid to bubble and reduce for about a minute, creating a rich, concentrated sauce.

Step 6: Final Herb Flourish

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley across the shrimp, stirring gently to incorporate the herb’s bright flavor.

Remove the skillet from heat.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the garlicky shrimp to a serving plate, accompanied by crusty bread to soak up the delectable, infused oil.

Prepare for a Spanish-inspired flavor explosion.

Helpful Hints For Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas Al Ajillo)

• Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture in this classic Spanish dish.
• Watch garlic closely while cooking to prevent burning, which can make the sauce bitter and unpleasant.
• Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to ensure even heating and prevent burning the garlic and shrimp.
• Opt for dry sherry or white wine to add depth and complexity to the sauce, enhancing the overall taste profile.
• Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the shrimp at their most tender and flavorful state, with crusty bread for dipping.

Bold Takes On Gambas Al Ajillo

• Spicy Mediterranean Fusion: Replace sherry with ouzo and add diced tomatoes and feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version.
• Coconut Curry Gambas: Swap olive oil with coconut oil, add curry powder and a splash of coconut milk for an Asian-inspired rendition.
• Citrus Herb Splash: Incorporate lemon zest, orange juice, and fresh dill instead of parsley to create a bright, zesty flavor profile.
• Smoky Chipotle Remix: Substitute smoked paprika with ground chipotle pepper, add a dash of tequila, and garnish with cilantro for a Mexican-style interpretation.

Tasty Matches For Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas Al Ajillo)

• Perfect Wine Pairing: Select a crisp, dry Spanish Albariño that complements the garlic and shrimp's delicate flavors, cutting through the richness with its bright, citrusy notes.
• Bread Companion: Choose a rustic, crusty sourdough baguette to soak up the aromatic garlic-infused olive oil, enhancing the dish's robust Mediterranean character.
• Refreshing Side Salad: Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the shrimp's intense flavors, adding a peppery and tangy counterpoint to the rich dish.
• Tapas Trio Suggestion: Serve alongside traditional Spanish manchego cheese and marinated olives to create a complete small plates experience that echoes the dish's regional authenticity.

How To Store Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas Al Ajillo)

• Refrigerate: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cover completely to prevent drying out and absorption of other food odors.
• Microwave Reheating: Warm gently at 50% power for 30-45 seconds, stirring halfway through to distribute heat evenly. Add a splash of water or white wine to maintain moisture and prevent rubbery texture.
• Skillet Reheating: Quickly sauté in a hot pan with a drizzle of olive oil for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent overcooking. This method helps restore the original texture and flavor.

Gambas Al Ajillo Common Questions

• What is the origin of Gambas al Ajillo?

This classic Spanish tapas dish originated in southern Spain, particularly in Andalusia, where garlic and seafood are staple ingredients of regional cuisine.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure proper searing and prevent excess liquid.

• Why is sherry important in this recipe?

Sherry adds a unique depth of flavor and subtle sweetness that complements the garlic and shrimp. If unavailable, you can substitute with dry white wine.

• How spicy is this dish?

The recipe has a mild to moderate heat from red pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to increase or decrease the spiciness according to your preference.

Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) Recipe

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4.8 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 18-20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Sizzling Spanish garlic shrimp (gambas al ajillo) brings Mediterranean coastal magic to your kitchen, packed with zesty garlic and paprika-kissed flavors. Succulent shrimp dance in olive oil, promising a quick, delicious escape that satisfies Mediterranean cravings perfectly.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (454 grams) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) olive oil

Seasoning and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt to taste

Liquid and Garnish:

• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) dry sherry or white wine
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Crusty bread for serving

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Instructions

1. Warm a spacious skillet over medium-high heat, drizzling olive oil to coat the bottom evenly.
2. Gently sauté sliced garlic for 60-90 seconds, allowing it to release its aromatic essence without browning.
3. Introduce raw shrimp to the skillet, sprinkling smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and a delicate layer of salt across the surface.
4. Sear shrimp for approximately 2 minutes per side, watching for a vibrant pink color and translucent texture indicating perfect doneness.
5. Deglaze the pan with sherry, creating a simmering liquid that concentrates the flavor profile for roughly 45-60 seconds.
6. Scatter fresh parsley across the shrimp, tossing gently to integrate the herb’s bright notes throughout the dish.
7. Immediately transfer the sizzling shrimp to a serving plate, accompanying with rustic bread to capture the luxurious garlic-infused oil.

Notes

• Toast the garlic gently to prevent burning, which can make the oil bitter and ruin the delicate flavor profile.
• Select large or jumbo shrimp for the most succulent and tender texture in this classic Spanish tapas dish.
• Substitute sherry with dry white wine if you prefer a milder alcohol flavor or want a non-alcoholic version.
• Sprinkle extra red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a spicier kick, allowing each person to customize their heat level.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Spanish

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 24g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 200mg