Description
Garlic Shrimp Tapas, also known as Gambas al Ajillo, is a classic Spanish appetizer featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in fragrant garlic-infused olive oil, seasoned with smoky paprika, a hint of red pepper flakes, and fresh lemon juice. This quick and flavorful dish is perfect for entertaining or a satisfying seafood snack served with crusty bread.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Cooking
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
Serving
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Crusty bread (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor and prevent excess moisture during cooking.
- Heat the oil and garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook gently until fragrant and just starting to turn golden, being very careful to avoid burning the garlic as it can become bitter.
- Add spices: Stir in the red pepper flakes and smoked paprika to the garlic-infused oil, allowing their flavors to meld for about 30 seconds.
- Cook the shrimp: Place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are perfectly cooked and tender.
- Finish with lemon and parsley: Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and toss everything together to coat evenly. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for brightness and color.
- Serve immediately: Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and serve hot with lemon wedges and optional crusty bread to soak up the fragrant garlic oil.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp if possible for the best taste and texture.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preferred level of spiciness.
- Avoid overcooking the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy; shrimp cook quickly.
- Best enjoyed immediately while hot straight from the pan.
- Serve with crusty bread to make the most of the delicious garlic-infused oil.
