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
Scale
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
