Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)

Have you ever craved a dish that’s both incredibly quick to make and bursting with flavor? Enter Garlic Shrimp, or Gambas al Ajillo—a beloved Spanish classic that transforms simple ingredients like fresh shrimp, garlic, and olive oil into a mouthwatering masterpiece in just 15 minutes! Whether you’re planning a tapas night, a light dinner, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is your ticket to effortless elegance.

Packed with protein and Mediterranean flair, Garlic Shrimp is as versatile as it is delicious. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the garlicky sauce, or serve it over rice or pasta for a heartier meal. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!

Key Benefits of Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)

Why will you love this recipe? Let’s dive into the irresistible benefits that make Garlic Shrimp a standout dish:

• Quick and Easy to Prepare: Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute dinners, or impromptu gatherings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The rich combination of garlic, olive oil, and a hint of spice from red pepper flakes creates a sauce so delicious, you’ll want to savor every drop.
• Healthy and Nutrient-Rich: Shrimp is high in protein, low in calories, and packed with essential nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. Garlic, on the other hand, offers its own health benefits, including immune support.
• Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it as a tapas-style appetizer, over pasta or rice for a hearty meal, or alongside crusty bread to soak up the garlicky goodness.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Its vibrant Mediterranean flavors and elegant presentation make it a guaranteed hit at dinner parties or family gatherings.

With these benefits, it’s no wonder Garlic Shrimp is a favorite in kitchens around the world. Once you try it, you’ll see why this dish is not just a recipe—it’s an experience!

Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)

Let’s start by gathering all the essentials for this mouthwatering dish. The ingredients are simple, yet they come together beautifully to create a dish packed with rich flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined – Fresh shrimp work best for this dish, but frozen shrimp will do if thawed properly.
• 4-5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced – The more garlic, the better! Its aromatic presence is key to the rich flavor.
• 3 tbsp olive oil – Extra virgin olive oil brings out the best in this dish, giving it that smooth, rich base.
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes – Add more or less depending on your spice preference.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika – This adds a subtle smoky depth to the dish.
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – A pop of green adds freshness and color.
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional) – This gives the sauce a beautiful depth and a hint of acidity.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for balancing out the flavors.

These ingredients come together in just a few steps, and the result is a dish that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare. Make sure to use high-quality shrimp and fresh garlic—these small details make all the difference.

Instructions for Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and in just 15 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s both delicious and impressive.

1. Prep the Shrimp: Start by patting the shrimp dry with a paper towel. This step helps them sear beautifully in the pan without releasing too much moisture.
   
2. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the sliced garlic. Let the garlic sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until it turns golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—you want the garlic to soften and infuse the oil, not get crispy.
   
3. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink. Flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they’re fully cooked and opaque.
   
4. Add the Seasonings: Sprinkle the red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper over the shrimp. Stir everything together to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated in the flavorful oil and spices.
   
5. Deglaze with Wine (Optional): If you’re using dry white wine, now’s the time to pour it in. Stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom. Let the wine simmer for a minute or so to reduce slightly.
   
6. Finish with Fresh Parsley: Once the shrimp are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness.
   
7. Serve: Serve the garlic shrimp immediately, ideally with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it over rice or pasta for a heartier meal.
   

Cooking tip: Don’t overcrowd the shrimp in the pan—if necessary, cook them in batches to ensure they sear nicely and cook evenly.

That’s it! You’ve just created a quick, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress anyone who’s lucky enough to try it.

Pro Tips and Variations for Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)

To elevate your Garlic Shrimp experience, here are a few pro tips and variations you can try. Whether you want to tweak the flavors or adapt the recipe to different dietary needs, these suggestions will help you make this dish your own.

Pro Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly! Keep an eye on them and remove them from the pan as soon as they turn opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, and no one wants that.
• Infuse the Oil: If you love garlic (and who doesn’t?), let the garlic simmer a bit longer in the oil to really infuse the flavors. Just be sure not to burn it—golden, not crispy, is the goal.
• Control the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, start with a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can always add more to taste, but it’s better to start small and adjust as you go.
• Use Fresh Parsley: For the best flavor, use fresh parsley at the end of cooking. It adds a nice contrast to the rich, garlicky sauce and gives the dish a pop of color.
• Serve Immediately: Garlic Shrimp tastes best fresh off the stove, while the shrimp are still juicy and tender, and the garlic oil is at its peak flavor.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Garlic Shrimp: If you love heat, add a sliced fresh chili or increase the amount of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end to balance out the richness with some citrusy brightness. You can also add a little zest for extra flavor.
• Garlic Shrimp with Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano for a fresh twist. You could even toss in a little rosemary for an earthy, Mediterranean flair.
• Vegan Option: If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative, try using vegan shrimp made from ingredients like konjac or jackfruit. They soak up the garlic and spices just as well as the real deal!
• Garlic Shrimp Pasta: For a heartier meal, serve the shrimp over your favorite pasta. Toss it in the garlic oil sauce, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an added layer of flavor.

With these tips and variations, you can customize your Garlic Shrimp dish to suit any occasion, making it as simple or as sophisticated as you like!

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)

Now that your Garlic Shrimp is cooked to perfection, it’s time to think about how to serve this delicious dish! Whether you’re preparing a casual dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, here are some perfect pairing ideas to take your meal to the next level:

• With Crusty Bread: Garlic Shrimp is absolutely irresistible when served with a side of warm, crusty bread. The bread soaks up the flavorful garlic-infused oil, making every bite even more delightful.
• Over Rice or Pasta: For a heartier meal, serve the shrimp over a bed of fluffy white rice or a pasta of your choice. The garlic oil sauce will coat the rice or pasta beautifully, adding a rich, savory flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• As Part of a Tapas Platter: If you’re hosting a tapas night or want to create a Mediterranean-inspired spread, add Garlic Shrimp to a platter alongside other small bites like patatas bravas, olives, and chorizo.
• With a Fresh Salad: Pair the shrimp with a light, refreshing salad. A simple Mediterranean salad with cucumber, tomatoes, red onions, and a lemon-olive oil dressing will balance the richness of the shrimp.
• As a Side Dish for Grilled Meats: Garlic Shrimp also makes a great side dish for grilled meats like chicken, steak, or even lamb. Its vibrant flavors are a perfect complement to smoky, charred proteins.
• With a Glass of Wine: This dish pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of white wine. A crisp, dry white like Sauvignon Blanc or Albariño complements the garlic and spices without overpowering the dish.

With these serving suggestions, you can turn your Garlic Shrimp into a complete meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to an elegant celebration. Enjoy!

Conclusion

And there you have it—your very own irresistible Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)! This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with bold flavors that are sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a special gathering, or a tapas party, Garlic Shrimp is always a crowd-pleaser.

Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

• It’s Fast: Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without the fuss.
• It’s Flavorful: The combination of garlic, olive oil, and spices creates a rich, savory sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp.
• It’s Versatile: From serving it with crusty bread to pairing it with pasta, this dish adapts to whatever you’re in the mood for.

Don’t forget—this recipe can easily be customized to suit your taste, whether you prefer it spicy, citrusy, or with a bit of fresh herbs. Garlic Shrimp is one of those dishes that makes you feel like you’re dining at a Mediterranean seaside restaurant, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.

So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the bold flavors of this Spanish-inspired dish. Once you make it once, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Happy cooking!

_________________________

Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)

Anne

Try this easy and flavorful Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) recipe! Ready in 15 minutes, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Simple, tasty, and quick!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine Mediterranean, Spanish

Servings 4

Calories 230 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb 450g large shrimp
• 4-5 cloves garlic
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup dry white wine optional
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

 

Prep the Shrimp:

• Start by patting the shrimp dry with a paper towel. This step helps them sear beautifully in the pan without releasing too much moisture.

Heat the Olive Oil:

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the sliced garlic. Let the garlic sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until it turns golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—you want the garlic to soften and infuse the oil, not get crispy.

Cook the Shrimp:

• Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink. Flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they’re fully cooked and opaque.

Add the Seasonings:

• Sprinkle the red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper over the shrimp. Stir everything together to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated in the flavorful oil and spices.

Deglaze with Wine (Optional):

• If you’re using dry white wine, now’s the time to pour it in. Stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom. Let the wine simmer for a minute or so to reduce slightly.

Finish with Fresh Parsley:

• Once the shrimp are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve:

• Serve the garlic shrimp immediately, ideally with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it over rice or pasta for a heartier meal.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 230
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 220mg
• Sodium: 580mg

Keyword Gambas al Ajillo, Garlic Shrimp, Quick Shrimp Recipe

FAQs for Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)

If you’re wondering about anything related to this delicious dish, you’re in the right place! Here are some frequently asked questions to help you make the perfect Garlic Shrimp every time.

I hope these answers help clear up any questions! If you have more, feel free to ask. Enjoy cooking and savoring your Garlic Shrimp!

More recipes: Crab Brulee Recipe