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Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) Recipe

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4.3 from 65 reviews

Spanish Garlic Shrimp, also known as Gambas al Ajillo, is a classic and flavorful tapas dish featuring succulent prawns sautéed in extra virgin olive oil infused with garlic, chili, and fresh parsley. This quick and easy recipe offers a perfect balance of garlicky heat and citrus freshness, ideal for serving with crusty sourdough bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Seafood

  • 1 lb prawns with shell and head, peeled and deveined

Seasonings & Oils

  • 1/2 cup Olivetta extra virgin olive oil
  • 10 garlic cloves, finely sliced
  • 2 chillies, finely sliced (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Juice from 1/2 lemon
  • 1/2 cup parsley, finely chopped

To Serve

  • Sourdough bread

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Prawns: Peel and devein 1 lb of prawns, leaving the shells and heads off to ensure clean, ready-to-cook shrimp that will absorb the flavors beautifully.
  2. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil until it shimmers, indicating it’s ready to infuse with garlic and chili flavors.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Chillies: Add 10 finely sliced garlic cloves and 2 sliced chillies (if using) to the hot olive oil. Cook gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is golden but not burnt, releasing its aroma into the oil.
  4. Cook the Prawns: Add the prepared prawns to the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the prawns turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook to keep them tender.
  5. Add Lemon Juice and Parsley: Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the cooked prawns and sprinkle in 1/2 cup of finely chopped parsley. Stir well to combine, allowing the fresh citrus and herb flavors to brighten the dish.
  6. Season and Serve: Season with salt to taste. Remove from heat and serve immediately with slices of sourdough bread to soak up the delicious garlicky oil.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, increase the number of chillies or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • Using fresh prawns with shells intact during initial cooking can enhance flavor, but peeling before cooking makes eating simpler.
  • Serve immediately for best texture and flavor; reheating may toughen the prawns.
  • Sourdough or crusty bread is essential to enjoy the flavorful oil sauce.
  • Olive oil quality significantly impacts the dish’s taste; use a good extra virgin olive oil.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Spanish

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/spanish-garlic-shrimp-gambas-al-ajillo-recipe/