Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)

A classic Spanish tapas dish, Gambas al Ajillo features juicy shrimp sautéed in olive oil with garlic, red pepper flakes, and a hint of lemon. This dish is incredibly flavorful, quick to prepare, and perfect as an appetizer or a main course with crusty bread.

Origin of Spanish Garlic Shrimp

Gambas al Ajillo is a popular Spanish dish, especially in the tapas bars of Madrid and Andalusia. It’s known for its simplicity and bold flavors, where shrimp are cooked in a garlicky olive oil sauce and served sizzling hot.

What We Love About This Recipe

• Authentic Spanish flavors with minimal ingredients
• Quick & easy – ready in just 10 minutes!
• Perfect with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic-infused oil

Also Read : Christmas Dinner Wellington Recipe

Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)

Recipe by RecipeWikkiCourse: Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

5

minutes

Calories

230

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)

• ¼ tsp salt (or to taste)

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 2 tbsp dry white wine (optional)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh)

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

• Crusty bread for serving

Directions

• Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Sauté Garlic & Spices: Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
• Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
• Deglaze & Finish: Add white wine (if using) and cook for 1 more minute. Stir in lemon juice and parsley.
• Serve Immediately: Serve hot with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful garlic oil.

Notes

• Serve as a tapa with Spanish wine for an authentic experience.
• Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.