If you have a soft spot for bold, garlicky flavors and crave something truly irresistible from the heart of Spain, then you’re going to fall in love with this Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) Recipe. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp sizzling gently in fragrant olive oil infused with thinly sliced garlic and a touch of fiery red pepper flakes. This beloved tapa captures the essence of Spanish cuisine with every bite, delivering a simple yet unforgettable combination of taste, texture, and warmth. Whether you’re cooking for a casual get-together or just treating yourself to something special, this dish is guaranteed to light up your palate and bring a little Spanish sunshine into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors—from the rich, fruity olive oil that carries the garlic’s aroma, to the shrimp’s fresh sweetness. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or frozen shrimp for tender texture and natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with garlic.
- ¼ cup olive oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its peppery, fruity notes that perfectly complement the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced: Thin slices release just the right amount of flavor without overpowering the shrimp.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes: Adds a gentle kick; adjust to taste if you prefer milder or spicier shrimp.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the dish, balancing richness and adding a touch of freshness.
- Salt & parsley for garnish: Essential finishing touches that season perfectly and add a pop of color.
How to Make Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) Recipe
Step 1: Warm the olive oil
Begin by heating your olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until it’s warm and shimmering. This gentle heat allows the oil to infuse with aromatics without burning the garlic later on.
Step 2: Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes
Add the thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes to the hot oil. Stir continuously and cook for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant and just starts to turn golden. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
Step 3: Cook the shrimp
Now add your peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Spread them out in a single layer and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, flipping once until the shrimp turn pink and curl up slightly. This quick cooking ensures they stay juicy and tender.
Step 4: Add lemon juice and garnish
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Toss everything together so the shrimp soak up that bright citrus flavor. Finally, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, herbaceous finish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
How to Serve Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) Recipe
Garnishes
A simple scatter of fresh parsley truly elevates this dish visually and flavor-wise. You can also add a little extra lemon zest for brightness or a few whole garlic cloves if you want a rustic touch.
Side Dishes
Crusty bread is the perfect partner for this Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) Recipe, allowing you to soak up every drop of the luscious garlic-infused olive oil. For a fuller meal, consider pairing it with a fresh salad or lightly sautéed greens to keep the focus on the shrimp.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Gambas al Ajillo in traditional small terracotta dishes to bring a bit of authentic Spanish charm to your table. Alternatively, serve it over a bed of saffron rice or toss it with linguine for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the shrimp and oil together to retain all that flavorful moisture.
Freezing
While fresh is best for this dish, you can freeze the cooked shrimp in a sealed container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve texture.
Reheating
Rewarm leftovers over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of olive oil if the pan looks dry. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
How spicy is the Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) Recipe?
The heat level depends on your preference; the red pepper flakes give a gentle warmth that you can easily adjust by adding more or less.
What can I substitute for olive oil?
Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for its flavor, but you can use avocado oil for a neutral taste, though it won’t have quite the same aromatic quality.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it relies on simple ingredients—just watch out for any accompaniments like bread if avoiding gluten.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Just use a larger skillet and adjust cooking times slightly to make sure the shrimp cook evenly without crowding the pan.
Final Thoughts
This Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) Recipe is a shining example of how simple, vibrant ingredients come together to create something truly special. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with bold flavors that will make you feel like you’re right in a bustling Spanish tapas bar. Don’t wait for the perfect occasion—give this recipe a try soon and watch it become one of your favorite go-to dishes for impressing friends or treating yourself.
Print
Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Succulent shrimp simmered in olive oil infused with garlic and chili flakes, creating a flavorful and aromatic Spanish tapas dish perfect for sharing as an appetizer.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasoning & Sauce
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Place a skillet over medium heat and pour in the olive oil, warming it until it is hot but not smoking.
- Sauté garlic and chili flakes: Add the thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes to the hot oil and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- Finish with lemon and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat, stir in the lemon juice, season with salt to taste, and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving.
Notes
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful garlic and chili oil.
- Adjust the spiciness by using less red pepper flakes if desired.
- For added flavor, use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled.
- Best enjoyed immediately while warm.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Seafood
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Spanish
