Gambas Al Ajillo Spanish Garlic Shrimp
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a trip to Spain, but your wallet's screaming "staycation"? Me too! Let's make some seriously tasty tapas at home recipes starting with the iconic Gambas al Ajillo.
It's garlic, it's shrimp, it's sizzling deliciousness!
Brief Overview
Gambas al Ajillo, a staple from Spain's vibrant tapas scene, is all about simple ingredients singing together. It's dead easy and takes only 15 minutes from start to finish.
This recipe serves 2-3 as part of a proper tapas spread.
Main Benefits
Honestly, the best part is how quickly you can whip this up after a long day. Garlic is also pretty good for you! It is the perfect excuse to gather your mates for a tapas party and pretend you are on vacation.
Quick and Easy Authentic Spanish Tapas Recipes From Spain
Okay, picture this: you're chilling with your bestie, and you want something amazing, but you don't want to spend hours slaving over a hot stove.
Been there, done that! This Gambas al Ajillo is seriously your answer for authentic Spanish easy recipes and for Tapas dishes dinner parties .
It's one of my go-to homemade tapas ideas when friends are coming over, especially if I'm aiming for a Tapas for party .
It looks super impressive, but honestly, it's a breeze to make. I remember once trying to impress a date with this, and let me tell you, it worked like a charm!
Now, before you start thinking this is some super complicated Spanish dish, let me stop you right there. It's genuinely easy, even if you're not a whiz in the kitchen.
It's truly one of the best Easy tapas recipes for home . And it tastes way better than anything you'd get from a chain restaurant.
Trust me! You will make delicious Spanish appetizers at home .
Let's talk about what you'll need for some cracking tapas at home recipes . We're making Gambas al Ajillo , AKA Spanish Garlic Shrimp. Honestly , it’s easier than ordering a takeaway.
Essentials to Get You Started
Here’s what you need to nail this dish. Don’t worry, most of it’s probably already in your cupboard! We are going to put together some Homemade Tapas Ideas .
Main Ingredients Breakdown
- 1 pound ( 450g ) large shrimp, peeled and deveined.
- 1/4 cup ( 60ml ) extra virgin olive oil.
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced.
- 1 dried red chili pepper, crushed. Or 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes will do.
- 1/4 cup ( 60ml ) dry white wine.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.
- Crusty bread.
Look for shrimp that are firm and smell fresh. If they smell fishy, skip them! Good olive oil matters. Splurge a little. This recipe is great for Tapas Dishes Dinner Parties
Spice it Up: Seasoning Notes
Garlic and chili is a magic combo. The wine adds a bit of zing. No wine? A splash of chicken broth works in a pinch.
The goal is to come up with simple Spanish Easy Recipes . Lemon juice adds brightness at the end. Parsley adds a pop of freshness.
Tools of the Trade
All you really need is a 10 inch skillet . Cast iron is ideal. You'll also need a small bowl for prepping the shrimp.
Don’t overthink it! If you don't have a skillet, a frying pan will do. Here are some Easy tapas recipes for home .
Thinking about the first time I made this, I burnt the garlic! Oh my gosh! Keep an eye on it.
Low and slow is the key. This Authentic Spanish tapas recipes will be a smashing hit! You can make Tapas For Party easily, and you'll be thinking you're actually making Spanish appetizers at home .
Now you can have some Quick tapas recipes and Tapas party food ideas .
Gambas al Ajillo: Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Ready in 15!)
Fancy a taste of Spain? Honestly, you can travel without leaving your kitchen. Forget ready meals! These Gambas al Ajillo will whisk you away.
They are dripping with garlicky, spicy goodness. This tapas dish is a simple yet satisfying recipe. It is perfect for impressing your mates.
It's the perfect opportunity to explore tapas at home recipes .
Prep Steps: Get Your Mise en Place On!
First, peel and devein 1 pound (450g) of shrimp. Pat them dry, that's key. Slice 6 cloves of garlic thinly.
Crush one dried red chili pepper. Chop some fresh parsley. Easy peasy! This essential mise en place sets you up for success.
step-by-step: Sizzling Shrimp in Minutes
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Heat 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic and chili for 1- 2 minutes . Don't burn it!
- Add the shrimp. Cook 2- 3 minutes per side. They should be pink.
- Optional: Deglaze with 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine for 1 minute .
- Stir in 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1 tablespoon parsley.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread.
Pro Tips: Elevate Your Tapas Recipes From Spain Game
The secret? Don't overcook the shrimp! Use good quality olive oil. Adjust the chili to your liking. Serve it hot! Honestly, a common mistake is burnt garlic.
Watch it like a hawk! You can even prep the garlic and chili ahead of time. It is great for tapas for party .
You know what's brilliant? Some people want authentic spanish tapas recipes to taste like they came straight from the motherland.
You can use Chicken broth if you dont have white wine. That's where the magic happens! Now, about those homemade tapas ideas … Serve with Patatas Bravas and Alioli and a cold beer.
So, ditch the usual and dive into this classic Spanish appetizer at home . This really is the best option for quick tapas party food ideas .
It's time to try these easy tapas recipes for home .
Enjoy this culinary adventure!
Recipe Notes for Your Spanish Easy Recipes Journey
Alright, so you’re diving into the world of tapas at home recipes ! Fantastic! Before you get started on these awesome Homemade Tapas Ideas , here are a few extra pointers to make your Gambas al Ajillo experience even better.
I love making Tapas For Party as they are super simple and are a huge crowd pleaser. Trust me, it tastes like it's straight from Tapas Recipes From Spain .
Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Tapas Dishes Dinner Parties
Okay, so you've got your sizzling shrimp. Presentation is key! Serve the Gambas al Ajillo in the skillet it was cooked in.
Garnish with a bit more fresh parsley and a lemon wedge. Offer plenty of crusty bread, like a baguette. It is perfect for soaking up all that delicious garlic infused oil.
A simple green salad also complements the richness of the shrimp. As for drinks, a chilled glass of Albariño or a light Spanish beer goes down a treat.
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
Got leftovers? Honestly, I’d be surprised but it happens. Pop the shrimp into an airtight container. They'll keep in the fridge for up to 2 days .
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium low heat. Add a splash of olive oil if needed. I don’t recommend freezing them.
The texture of the shrimp can get a bit rubbery.
Variations: Quick Tapas Recipes for Everyone
Want to mix it up? For a dairy-free option, simply stick to the original recipe, it’s already dairy-free! For a gluten-free adaptation, ensure that the bread is gluten-free.
You could even serve it with some patatas bravas instead! Seasonal swap? In the summer, try adding some grilled zucchini slices to the skillet for extra flavour.
Nutrition Basics: Spanish Appetizers at Home - Guilt Free Grub
While I am not a nutritionist, here is an overview. Each serving has about 350-400 calories. You will get 30-35g of protein, 20-25g of fat, and 5-10g of carbohydrates.
Shrimp is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Garlic has some awesome health benefits too! Remember, this is a rough estimate, based on the ingredients and potion size.
This is one of those Easy tapas recipes for home that are also pretty healthy, bonus.
Seriously, give these Gambas al Ajillo a go! They’re Authentic Spanish tapas recipes that are quick, easy and absolutely bursting with flavour.
Have fun creating your own Tapas party food ideas . You've totally got this. Let me know how it turns out!
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the secret to making amazing Gambas al Ajillo, and how do I avoid rubbery shrimp like you get at some dodgy restaurants?
The key is not to overcook the shrimp! They only need a few minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Also, make sure your pan is hot before adding the shrimp a sizzling pan helps them cook quickly and evenly. Nobody wants shrimp that tastes like a rubber band!
I'm planning a tapas night! What are some other easy tapas at home recipes that would go well with these garlic shrimp?
Fantastic idea! Gambas al Ajillo are a perfect starting point. Patatas Bravas (spicy potatoes) are a classic and easy side. Some marinated olives, Manchego cheese, and a simple tomato and basil salad will round out your Spanish feast perfectly.
Remember, tapas are all about variety and sharing like a picky tea but fancier!
Can I make these Gambas al Ajillo ahead of time? How long will they last, and how should I store them?
While Gambas al Ajillo are best served immediately, you can prep some of the ingredients in advance. You can peel and devein the shrimp and slice the garlic ahead of time. However, cooking them in advance isn't recommended, as the shrimp can become rubbery.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently in a skillet, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp.
I'm trying to eat healthier. How can I make these tapas at home recipes a bit lighter on the waistline?
You can certainly lighten up this recipe! Use a little less olive oil and make sure to drain the shrimp on a paper towel after cooking. Serve with a side of salad, such as a tomato and cucumber salad, rather than lots of bread for dipping.
For another variation, try serving with some grilled asparagus for a tasty and fiber rich side dish.
I don't have any white wine is it absolutely essential for these Gambas al Ajillo? What can I substitute?
While white wine adds a lovely depth of flavour, it's not strictly essential. You can substitute it with chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for a similar acidity. If you do use chicken broth, be mindful of the salt content and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
A little squeeze of lemon juice at the end will brighten the flavors up nicely.
Can I use frozen shrimp for these tapas at home recipes, or is fresh shrimp a must?
Frozen shrimp works perfectly well, and it's often more convenient! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels before cooking. This helps them to brown nicely and prevents them from steaming in the pan. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Gambas Al Ajillo Spanish Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350-400 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20-25g |
| Fiber | 5-10g |
