Gambas al Ajillo Recipe
If you have a soft spot for bold, vibrant flavors that burst with every bite, then this Gambas al Ajillo Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to dish. Originating from the sunny coasts of Spain, this simple yet irresistible garlic shrimp recipe highlights juicy, succulent prawns drenched in fragrant olive oil, garlic, and just the right kick of red pepper flakes. It’s the kind of dish that instantly transports you to a warm Mediterranean evening, where every mouthful feels like a celebration of fresh, quality ingredients cooked with love. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, this Gambas al Ajillo will never disappoint.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Gambas al Ajillo Recipe so special is the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role — from the peppery bite of fresh garlic to the silky richness of extra virgin olive oil, they all blend perfectly to create a dish full of texture and vibrant flavor.
- 1 pound large shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these juicy prawns are the star of the dish — make sure they are fresh or thoroughly thawed for the best taste.
- 6 cloves garlic: Thinly sliced to infuse the olive oil with its delectable aroma without overpowering the shrimp.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: The key to the silky, luscious sauce that carries all the flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a gentle heat that wakes up your palate without stealing the spotlight.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): A subtle smoky note that deepens the flavor complexity if you decide to use it.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp and balances the overall taste perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Brings a fresh, herbal brightness and a splash of color to the finished dish.
- 1 tablespoon dry sherry or white wine (optional): Adds a splash of acidity and depth that elevates the whole plate.
- Lemon wedges: For a bright squeeze of citrus that cuts through the richness and adds a zingy finish.
How to Make Gambas al Ajillo Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined — tails on or off is up to your preference. Thinly slice the garlic cloves so they can gently infuse the oil. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and joyful.
Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil and Garlic
Place a large skillet over medium heat and pour in the extra virgin olive oil. Add the sliced garlic and sauté it carefully, stirring continuously until it becomes fragrant and just golden. It’s crucial not to let the garlic burn, or it will turn bitter and spoil the delicate balance of flavors.
Step 3: Add Spices and Shrimp
Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Stir them into the warm oil to release their aromas. Now, lay the shrimp in a single layer and season them with salt. Cook them for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a beautiful pink and become opaque—juicy and tender.
Step 4: Deglaze and Finish
If using, pour in the dry sherry or white wine to deglaze the pan and add a layer of complexity to the sauce. Let it simmer for about 30 seconds, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to meld. Then remove the skillet from heat.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp for a burst of freshness and color. Serve the Gambas al Ajillo piping hot, with lemon wedges on the side for an extra pop of zesty brightness.
How to Serve Gambas al Ajillo Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic choice, giving the dish a light herbal touch and lively color contrast against the rich golden garlic oil. Don’t forget plenty of lemon wedges — their juicy zing is essential to balance the buttery goodness and awaken your taste buds.
Side Dishes
Gambas al Ajillo pairs beautifully with crusty bread, perfect for soaking up the garlicky olive oil sauce. For a heartier meal, serve alongside fluffy white rice or a simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to keep things fresh and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your shrimp in a rustic cast-iron skillet to keep them warm and sizzling at the table, which adds a delightful sensory experience. You could also present them over a bed of garlic-infused pasta or alongside grilled vegetables for an appealing Mediterranean spread everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s hard to resist eating it all!), transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the shrimp might release some of their juices, so store the sauce separately if possible.
Freezing
Freezing is not ideal for this dish, as the shrimp can become rubbery and the olive oil sauce may separate. For best quality and flavor, enjoy your Gambas al Ajillo fresh or refrigerated for a short time.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil if the pan seems dry. Avoid using a microwave, as it can overcook the shrimp and diminish the garlic’s aroma and texture.
FAQs
What type of shrimp is best for Gambas al Ajillo Recipe?
Large shrimp are ideal because they cook quickly, remain juicy, and give you that satisfying succulent bite. Whether you opt for fresh or frozen, just make sure they are peeled and deveined before cooking.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! The red pepper flakes are adjustable, so feel free to add more if you like some heat. You could also include a diced fresh chili for an extra kick while keeping the garlicky flavor front and center.
Is there a substitute for sherry or white wine?
If you don’t have sherry or white wine on hand, a splash of lemon juice or a bit of chicken broth can work well to deglaze the pan and add acidity. It won’t be quite the same, but it still brightens the flavors beautifully.
Can I prepare the garlic oil ahead of time?
Yes, you can gently infuse olive oil with garlic in advance, but fresh sautéed garlic always tastes best. If you do prepare the oil ahead, warm it lightly before adding the shrimp to release those wonderful aromas.
What should I serve with Gambas al Ajillo for a complete meal?
This dish shines as a tapas appetizer, but you can easily build a meal around it by adding crusty bread, a vibrant salad, or roasted vegetables on the side — all simple accompaniments that complement the bold garlic shrimp perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Gambas al Ajillo Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels effortlessly sophisticated yet surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s perfect for when you want to impress without stress or simply indulge in the vibrant flavors of Spanish cuisine at home. I encourage you to try it, savor every garlicky, buttery bite, and share the joy of this classic recipe with your loved ones. You won’t regret bringing a little taste of Spain to your kitchen!
Print
Gambas al Ajillo Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Gambas al Ajillo is a classic Spanish tapas dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in fragrant garlic-infused olive oil with a hint of chili and smoked paprika, garnished with fresh parsley and served with zesty lemon wedges. This quick and flavorful appetizer captures the essence of Spanish cuisine with its simple yet bold flavors.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
Seasonings & Add-ins
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon dry sherry or white wine (optional)
Oils & Liquids
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Serving
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and sauté garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the extra virgin olive oil. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté gently until the garlic becomes fragrant and just turns golden, taking care not to burn it.
- Add spices: Stir in the red pepper flakes and smoked paprika if using, mixing well to infuse the oil with their flavors.
- Cook the shrimp: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet and season with salt. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are cooked through.
- Deglaze the pan: If desired, pour in the dry sherry or white wine and let it simmer for 30 seconds. This step helps deglaze the pan and adds depth to the sauce.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and crusty bread on the side for dipping into the flavorful garlic oil.
Notes
- Serve hot and sizzling for an authentic experience.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be gently reheated in a skillet.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Spanish
