Description
Experience the authentic taste of Spain with this easy Gambas al Ajillo (Spanish Garlic Shrimp) recipe — juicy shrimp cooked in olive oil with garlic, chili, and paprika.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 5–6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1–2 small dried red chilies or ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt.
- Infuse the Oil:
Heat olive oil in a skillet or earthenware dish over medium heat. Add garlic and chili, cooking gently until garlic turns light golden and fragrant (1–2 minutes). - Cook the Shrimp:
Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 minute per side, until pink and just opaque. Sprinkle smoked paprika while cooking and stir gently. - Finish the Dish:
Drizzle with lemon juice, toss with chopped parsley, and remove from heat immediately. - Serve Hot:
Serve sizzling in the same pan with crusty bread to soak up the garlic oil.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp whenever possible for the best texture.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp — they only need a minute or two per side.
- Watch the garlic closely; golden is perfect, brown means bitter.
- Add a splash of white wine for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve immediately for that authentic tapas bar experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes