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–+ servings
Gambas al ajillo in a cast iron skillet, with a spoon on the left and pieces of bread around the edges.

Spanish Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Spanish
Diet: Gluten Free, Low Lactose
Keyword: gambas al ajillo, garlic shrimp
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Calories: 374kcal
Spanish garlic shrimp (gambas al ajillo) is a classic tapas recipe that's easy to make at home. It cooks in 15 minutes so it's perfect for a quick dinner!
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Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 lb 21-30 peeled shrimp
  • ¼ cup thinly sliced garlic
  • 1 ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • pinch crushed red pepper
  • ¼ cup minced parsley
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • lemon wedges

Instructions

  • Toss shrimp in a bowl with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and allow to sit for 10 minutes.
  • Add the garlic and olive oil to a large cast-iron or other heavy skillet over moderately low heat. Stir occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant and has just barely started to brown. You're essentially poaching the garlic.
  • Throw in the pinch of red pepper flakes and give it a stir.
  • Add the shrimp to the skillet, keeping the heat moderately low. Keep them all in one layer, don't pile them up. When they are barely pink on one side, flip them all over and let cook for about a minute. Then remove from heat and allow to finish cooking in the warm oil.
  • Top with the parsley. Serve with lemon wedges and crusty bread.

Video

Notes

  • I've tried to tailor the amount of shrimp/shrimp size to the size that the pan will hold in one batch. Just remember not to overcrowd the pan, it should be full, but all in one layer.
  • The cooking time will vary depending upon the size of the shrimp you buy. But it generally goes pretty fast. Don't walk away! Just remember you don't want to overcook shrimp, but you also should NOT be eating grey shrimp... 
  • I love my Lodge cast iron skillet for this recipe. You go from stovetop to serving dish in one swoop.
  • You can add more garlic if you like. For me, the more the better. It gets so soft and melty and is great slathered on the bread.
  • Be sure to read the post above for tips about saving money when shopping for shrimp. 
 
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Nutrition

Calories: 374kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 48g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 572mg | Sodium: 2932mg | Potassium: 291mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 630IU | Vitamin C: 24.6mg | Calcium: 370mg | Iron: 5.6mg