Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and transforms simple ingredients into pure magic, look no further than this Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe. This classic Spanish tapa celebrates fresh prawns bathed in fragrant olive oil, garlic, and a touch of heat from chili, creating a dish that’s irresistibly savory, perfectly balanced, and ready in just 20 minutes. Whether you’re entertaining friends or simply treating yourself, these garlic prawns deliver a taste of Spain that’s both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the careful selection of each ingredient, all of which play a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture that make the Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe so unforgettable.
- 1 lb large raw prawns (peeled and deveined, tails on): Fresh prawns ensure a tender, juicy bite, the true star of this dish.
- 6 cloves garlic (thinly sliced): Garlic adds a deep, aromatic foundation that infuses every bite with warmth.
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil: Rich and fruity olive oil acts as the cooking medium and flavor base, enhancing the prawns perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This spice lends a subtle smoky depth that elevates the dish without overpowering it.
- 1 small dried red chili or ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: A hint of chili brings the perfect amount of heat to balance the garlic and paprika.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the dish with vibrant color and a burst of herbal freshness.
- Juice of ½ lemon: Lemon juice adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the olive oil.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors without overshadowing the prawns.
- Crusty bread for serving (optional): Perfect for scooping up the garlicky, flavorful oil, completing the experience.
How to Make Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Prawns
Start by patting your prawns dry with paper towels. This step is essential to get a nice sear and prevents steaming. Lightly season them with salt to bring out their natural sweetness while cooking.
Step 2: Infuse the Olive Oil
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet or traditional cazuela over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic cloves and cook gently for 1 to 2 minutes. You want the garlic to release its incredible aroma and to start turning golden—but be careful not to burn it, as that will add bitterness.
Step 3: Add Spices and Prawns
Next, toss in the dried red chili or red pepper flakes and smoked paprika. Stir them quickly through the oil and garlic to awaken their flavors. Immediately add the seasoned prawns, spreading them out evenly to cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque, juicy and tender inside.
Step 4: Finish with Freshness
Once the prawns are perfectly cooked, squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle the chopped parsley on top. This final touch brings lively acidity and herbal brightness, rounding out the dish beautifully. Serve immediately to enjoy the prawns at their freshest and most flavorful.
How to Serve Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like additional fresh parsley or lemon wedges can brighten the plate visually and enhance the taste when squeezed over the prawns at the table. These small touches make the dish inviting and photo-ready.
Side Dishes
This Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the garlicky olive oil. For a heartier meal, serve alongside steamed rice or a light pasta tossed with fresh herbs to soak up the delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a tapas-style experience, serve the prawns in small communal dishes or shallow cast-iron skillets. Another fun idea is to present them atop toasted baguette slices as an elegant appetizer that your guests will love. The vibrant colors and inviting aroma will make them the star of any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the prawns in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days, though they’re best enjoyed fresh due to their delicate texture and bold flavor.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for this Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe because the prawns might become rubbery when thawed. If you do freeze them, make sure they’re well-sealed and consume within one month for the best quality.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently in a pan over low heat to avoid overcooking the prawns. Adding a splash of olive oil can help keep them moist and flavorful as you warm them through. Avoid the microwave to maintain their tender texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear well and don’t release too much water in the pan.
Is this dish spicy?
The heat level is mild and balanced, thanks to the small amount of chili. You can always adjust the chili or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Can I substitute the prawns with shrimp?
Yes, shrimp can be used interchangeably with prawns in this recipe. Just adjust cooking time based on their size to avoid overcooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be mindful of what you serve alongside if you want to keep the meal gluten-free.
What type of olive oil should I use?
Extra virgin olive oil is best for its rich flavor and quality, which complement the garlic and prawns perfectly, enhancing the overall dish.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. The combination of fragrant garlic, smoky paprika, and fresh prawns brings an authentic taste of Spain right to your table. Quick to prepare yet incredibly impressive, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or lively gatherings. Give it a go and savor every flavorful bite!
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Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Spanish Garlic Prawns is a classic Spanish tapa featuring succulent prawns sautéed in fragrant garlic-infused olive oil with smoky paprika and a touch of chili for mild heat. Finished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, this dish is perfect as an appetizer or light main, especially when served with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large raw prawns (peeled and deveined, tails on)
- 6 cloves garlic (thinly sliced)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 small dried red chili or ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Salt to taste
Optional
- Crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Prawns: Pat the prawns dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and season them lightly with salt to enhance their natural flavor.
- Heat the Oil and Garlic: In a large skillet or cazuela, warm the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook gently for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and just starting to turn golden, being careful not to burn it to avoid bitterness.
- Add Chili and Paprika: Stir in the dried red chili or red pepper flakes and smoked paprika to the garlic oil, allowing the spices to release their aroma and flavor into the oil.
- Cook the Prawns: Immediately add the seasoned prawns to the skillet. Cook them for 2–3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Finish the Dish: Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the prawns and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley to add brightness and freshness. Stir gently to combine all flavors.
- Serve: Serve the garlic prawns immediately while hot. Optionally, provide crusty bread alongside to soak up the delicious garlicky oil and juices.
Notes
- Use the freshest prawns available for the best flavor and texture.
- This dish is traditionally served as a tapa but also makes a great main course when paired with rice or pasta.
- If using frozen prawns, make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to prevent excess moisture during cooking.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter and negatively impact the flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Spanish
