Gambas al Ajillo (Spanish Garlic Shrimp) Recipe
Gambas al Ajillo is a classic Spanish tapa featuring juicy, large shrimp sautéed in fragrant garlic-infused olive oil, with a touch of heat from red pepper flakes and smoky paprika. Finished with a splash of dry sherry, lemon juice, and fresh parsley, this quick and flavorful recipe is perfect for a delicious appetizer or light meal served with crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Kosher salt, to taste
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 10 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons dry sherry or dry white wine
- Juice of ½ lemon
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season them evenly with kosher salt. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Cook Garlic and Peppers: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat until it shimmers but does not smoke. Add the chopped garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for up to 60 seconds or until the garlic starts to develop a light golden color. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp and sprinkle paprika over them. Cook the shrimp for about 3 minutes, tossing frequently, until their flesh turns opaque and takes on a pearly pink color. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on shrimp size. Remove the skillet from the heat immediately after cooking.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the dry sherry (or dry white wine), lemon juice, and freshly chopped parsley into the skillet, mixing everything well to meld all the flavors together.
- Serve: Transfer the shrimp and garlic-infused sauce to a serving bowl. Serve hot with your favorite crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat level of the dish.
- Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Dry sherry can be substituted with a dry white wine or omitted if preferred.
- Serve immediately as this dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot.
- Pair with crusty bread or a side of steamed rice to complement the flavors.
