Imagine a dish that transports you straight to the vibrant coastal kitchens of Spain with just one bite - that's exactly what Camarones Ajillo promises! This mouthwatering garlic shrimp recipe is not just a meal, it's a culinary experience that combines simplicity with explosive flavor. In just 20 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds, proving that gourmet cooking can be both quick and incredibly delicious.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1/4 cup of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, salt and pepper to taste, and 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring it is hot but not smoking.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning. The garlic should become fragrant and slightly golden.
- Once the garlic is ready, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side without stirring, allowing them to develop a nice sear.
- After 2-3 minutes, flip the shrimp over and add the red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine the flavors.
- Continue cooking the shrimp for another 2-3 minutes until they are opaque and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become tough.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh flavor boost.
- Serve the Camarones Ajillo immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: Always use the freshest shrimp possible for the best flavor and texture. Look for shrimp that smells clean and ocean-like, with no fishy odor.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook shrimp in a single layer to ensure they sear properly and develop a beautiful golden color.
- Watch Your Garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so keep it moving and remove from heat if it starts to brown too fast to prevent bitterness.
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil: Since olive oil is a key flavor component, use a good extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Timing is Critical: Shrimp cook very quickly - about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery.
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust red pepper flakes to match your spice preference. Start with less and add more if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 180mg
