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Gambas al Ajillo, a timeless Spanish classic, invites culinary enthusiasts on a journey through the sun-drenched streets of Spain. Translating to “Garlic Shrimp,” this iconic tapas dish is a harmonious blend of succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and the rich embrace of olive oil.

At the heart of Gambas al Ajillo lies the simplicity that defines Spanish cuisine. Large shrimp, meticulously peeled and deveined, take center stage. The dish unfolds in a sizzling pan, where a generous pour of olive oil meets thinly sliced garlic, creating an aromatic symphony that captures the essence of a Spanish kitchen.

The shrimp, introduced to this fragrant medley, dance to perfection, turning a delicate pink as they absorb the flavors of the garlic-infused oil. Spanish paprika, red pepper flakes (for those seeking a hint of heat), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper elevate the dish, creating a melody of tastes that sing on the palate.

For those desiring an extra layer of complexity, a splash of white wine or dry sherry is introduced, the alcohol evaporating to leave behind a luscious depth of flavor. As the crescendo approaches, fresh parsley is sprinkled over the dish, adding a burst of color and a final touch of freshness.

Gambas al Ajillo is best served hot, straight from the pan, allowing diners to experience the rustic charm of Spanish dining. Crusty bread becomes the perfect companion, ready to soak up the flavorful olive oil and garlic essence.

This culinary masterpiece is more than a dish; it is a celebration of Spain’s culinary heritage, a reflection of the country’s sun-kissed ingredients, and an invitation to savor the warmth of Spanish hospitality. With each bite, Gambas al Ajillo is a sensory journey that transports the diner to the heart of Spain, where the sun, the sea, and the vibrant flavors come together in perfect harmony. ¡Buen provecho!

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Here is a recipe for Gambas al Ajillo:

Gambas al Ajillo

Recipe by Yummy FoodCourse: AppetizersCuisine: SpanishDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

250

kcal

Total time

minutes

Gambas al Ajillo, a timeless Spanish classic, invites culinary enthusiasts on a journey through the sun-drenched streets of Spain.

Ingredients

1/2 Kilo large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/3 cup olive oil
6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste, for heat)
1 teaspoon Spanish paprika (pimentón)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons dry sherry or white wine (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Crusty bread, for serving

Directions

Prepare Shrimp:
Ensure the shrimp are peeled, deveined, and patted dry. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Heat Olive Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, allowing them to infuse the oil. Adjust heat to prevent garlic from burning.
Sauté Shrimp:
Add the seasoned shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque. Be mindful not to overcook.
Season:
Sprinkle Spanish paprika over the shrimp, ensuring even distribution. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Toss the shrimp to coat them in the flavorful oil.
Optional Wine Addition:
If using, pour in the dry sherry or white wine to deglaze the pan. Allow it to simmer for a minute to cook off the alcohol.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, giving a burst of color and freshness. Remove the pan from heat.
Serve Hot:
Gambas al Ajillo is best served hot, straight from the pan. Accompany it with crusty bread to soak up the delectable garlic-infused olive oil.

Notes

Use fresh and high-quality shrimp for the best flavor.
Adjust the red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
Be cautious not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
Customize the dish by adding a squeeze of lemon for a citrusy touch.

Nutrition Facts

4 servings per container

Calories250

Amount Per Serving% Daily Value *
Total Fat 20g 31%
- Saturated Fat 3g 15%
- Trans Fat 15g
Cholesterol 200mg 67%
Sodium 400mg 17%

Amount Per Serving% Daily Value *
Total Carbohydrate 5g 2%
- Dietary Fiber 0.5g 2%
Protein 20g 40%

* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Enjoy this Spanish tapas favorite, where each succulent shrimp is a vessel for the rich, garlicky essence of the Mediterranean. ¡Buen provecho!

Other FISH & SEAFOOD recipes may be found HERE.

IMAGE SOURCE: Krista, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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