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Spanish Garlic Shrimp Skillet (Gambas al Ajillo) SHINYRECIPE
DINNER

Spanish Garlic Shrimp Skillet (Gambas al Ajillo)

This quick and flavorful Spanish Garlic Shrimp Skillet, known as Gambas al Ajillo, brings the taste of Spain to your dinner table in under 20 minutes. Succulent shrimp are bathed in a fragrant olive oil sauce infused with garlic and a hint of spice, perfect for a weeknight meal or entertaining.

Why you'll like it

This recipe focuses on delivering an authentic, quick, and easy Spanish classic (Gambas al Ajillo) that is perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or impressive appetizer, emphasizing speed and flavor with minimal ingredients.

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18Total time
EasyDifficulty
4 ⅞Servings
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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly and don't steam.

02

Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-low heat.

03

Add the thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes to the oil. Cook gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

04

Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the dried shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking.

05

Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and squeeze the juice from the half lemon over the shrimp.

06

Serve immediately directly from the skillet, accompanied by slices of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful garlic oil.

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NUTRITION

Per serving

360Calories · kcal
20Protein · g
2Carbs · g
31Fat · g
1Fiber · g
1Sugar · g
150Sodium · mg
Nutrition values are estimates unless otherwise noted.
WHAT PEOPLE THINK

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COOKING TIP

Make it better

Don't overcrowd the pan; cook shrimp in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming. Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor, as it's a key component of the sauce. Serve with plenty of crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic-infused oil.

SUBSTITUTIONS

Easy swaps

For less spice, omit the red pepper flakes. If fresh parsley isn't available, use 1 tablespoon of dried parsley, though fresh is highly recommended for flavor. You can use a splash of dry white wine or chicken broth along with the olive oil for a slightly different flavor profile.

STORAGE

Keep it fresh

Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until just warmed through to avoid overcooking the shrimp and making them rubbery.

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COOKING NOTES

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