Introduction
Gambas al Ajillo is a traditional Spanish dish that highlights the natural flavors of shrimp with the aromatic essence of garlic and the richness of olive oil. This delightful dish is often served as a tapa, perfect for sharing, and is typically garnished with fresh parsley and a hint of chili for added flavor. It’s simple to prepare and brings the vibrant tastes of Spain to your table.
Ingredients
- 500 g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1-2 red chili peppers (adjust to taste), sliced
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Optional: Crusty bread (for serving)
Instructions
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Prepare the Shrimp:
- Rinse the peeled and deveined shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. This step ensures that the shrimp sear nicely and don’t steam in the pan.
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Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and chili peppers, cooking gently for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned. Browning the garlic can result in a bitter taste.
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Cook the Shrimp:
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fully cooked. The shrimp should be opaque and have a slight curl.
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Finish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning with more salt if necessary.
- Serve the Gambas al Ajillo immediately, garnished with additional parsley and accompanied by lemon wedges for squeezing over the shrimp. Optionally, serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful oil.
Health Notes
- Gambas al Ajillo is a rich dish due to the olive oil content. While olive oil is a healthy fat, it’s important to enjoy this dish in moderation, especially if you are watching your calorie intake. The dish is high in protein but also contains cholesterol from the shrimp.
Serving Suggestions
- Gambas al Ajillo is best enjoyed warm as a tapas dish. Pair it with a refreshing salad, a glass of Spanish white wine or sangria, and serve alongside crusty bread to enhance the experience.
Tips
- Garlic: For a stronger garlic flavor, consider using whole garlic cloves instead of sliced garlic. You can crush them slightly to release more flavor into the oil.
- Shrimp Size: Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Adjust cooking time accordingly based on the size of the shrimp.
- Flavor Variations: Add a splash of sherry or white wine to the skillet just before serving for added depth of flavor.
- Make It Spicy: For those who enjoy heat, consider adding more chili peppers or using a pinch of red pepper flakes to taste.
