Description
Gambas al Ajillo is a classic Spanish tapa featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in fragrant garlic-infused olive oil, elevated with a touch of chili heat, smoked paprika, and fresh parsley. This quick and flavorful dish is perfect for sharing as an appetizer or enjoying as a light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasonings and Garnish
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes or 1 fresh red chili, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil: Place a medium pan over medium heat and pour in the olive oil. Warm the oil until it’s hot but not smoking, preparing it for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté Garlic and Chili: Add the thinly sliced garlic and chili flakes or fresh chili to the hot oil. Cook gently until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn it to preserve a mellow flavor.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the pan. Stir and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, ensuring even cooking.
- Add Spices and Salt: Sprinkle the smoked paprika and salt over the shrimp. Mix well to coat the shrimp evenly in the spices, enhancing the smoky and savory notes.
- Finish with Lemon Juice: Remove the pan from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp. Toss gently to combine and brighten the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top as a fresh, vibrant garnish. Serve the Gambas al Ajillo hot, ideally with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful garlic oil.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the chili level according to your heat preference, or omit for a milder dish.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the shrimp’s tender texture and warm garlic oil.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or as part of a tapas spread.
- Smoked paprika adds a distinctive flavor, but sweet or hot paprika can be substituted if needed.
