Spanish Classic: Gambas al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp)

Gambas al Ajillo, or Garlic Shrimp, is a beloved Spanish tapas dish that combines succulent shrimp with a generous amount of garlic, olive oil, and a touch of chili pepper. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for entertaining or as a quick and delicious appetizer. Follow this recipe to create a traditional Gambas al Ajillo that will transport your taste buds to Spain.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1-2 dried red chili peppers, crumbled (or 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes)
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Crusty bread (for serving)

Instructions:

Preparing the Gambas al Ajillo:

1. Heat the Oil:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Chili:
   • Add the sliced garlic and crumbled chili peppers (or red pepper flakes) to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is golden and fragrant, but not burnt.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
   • Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side.
4. Add Wine and Season:
   • Pour in the white wine and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the shrimp to be fully cooked. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Serving:

1. Garnish:
   • Transfer the Gambas al Ajillo to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
2. Serve with Bread:
   • Serve immediately with lemon wedges and crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic-infused oil.

Gambas al Ajillo is a quintessential Spanish tapas dish that combines the simplicity of fresh ingredients with bold, vibrant flavors. The combination of succulent shrimp, garlic, and olive oil creates a dish that is both comforting and irresistible. Perfect for a tapas night or as an elegant appetizer, Gambas al Ajillo is sure to delight. ¡Buen provecho!