Camarones al Ajillo: Garlic Shrimp Delight

Name: Camarones al Ajillo: Garlic Shrimp Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 500 g large shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin); 6 cloves garlic (thinly sliced); 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped); 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); to taste salt and pepper

20 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Savour the rich and aromatic flavours of camarones al ajillo, a quick and delicious garlic shrimp dish perfect for any occasion.

Prep

10 min

Cook

10 min

Total

20 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Camarones al ajillo, or garlic shrimp, is a classic Spanish dish that showcases the simplicity and elegance of Mediterranean cuisine. This dish is all about the bold, aromatic flavours of garlic and olive oil, perfectly complementing the delicate sweetness of shrimp. This version of camarones al ajillo is perfect for those who appreciate a quick yet sumptuous meal. It brings together a handful of ingredients to create a dish that feels luxurious without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. For seafood lovers and fans of Mediterranean flavours, this dish is a must-try. Its simplicity allows the quality of the ingredients to shine, making it an excellent choice for showcasing fresh, high-quality shrimp.

Instructions

Prepare the shrimp

Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.

Pro tip: Ensure the shrimp are completely dry for better searing.

Heat the oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.

Sauté garlic

Add the sliced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes.

Pro tip: Avoid burning the garlic as it can become bitter.

Cook the shrimp

Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Sprinkle with paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

Pro tip: Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.

Flip the shrimp

Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque.

Pro tip: Shrimp are done when they curl into a 'C' shape.

Finish the dish

Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the lemon juice and parsley. Toss to combine.

Pro tip: Add more lemon juice for extra brightness if desired.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavour and texture.
Adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste preferences.
Serve immediately to enjoy the shrimp at its peak flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are camarones al ajillo?

Camarones al ajillo is a Spanish dish consisting of shrimp cooked in garlic-infused olive oil.

How many calories are in camarones al ajillo?

A serving of camarones al ajillo contains approximately 210 calories.

What is the best way to serve garlic shrimp?

Serve garlic shrimp with crusty bread or over pasta to soak up the flavourful oil.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently before serving.

Is camarones al ajillo spicy?

The level of spice can be adjusted by the amount of red pepper flakes used. It's optional, so you can omit it for a milder dish.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, pair camarones al ajillo with crusty bread or over a bed of pasta to soak up the delicious garlic-infused oil. A crisp white wine or a light rosé complements the dish beautifully. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently over low heat to preserve the shrimp's tender texture.