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Spanish Garlic Prawns (Gambas al Ajillo)

Yields4 ServingsPrep Time15 minsCook Time15 minsTotal Time30 mins

Gambas al Ajillo is a classic Spanish tapas dish featuring succulent prawns sautéed in sizzling olive oil with garlic and red pepper flakes. This dish is bold, aromatic, and rich in flavor, making it perfect for a quick appetizer or a Spanish-themed dinner. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic-infused oil.

Spanish Garlic Prawns (Gambas al Ajillo)

For the Prawns
 ½ kg raw prawns (peeled and deveined, tails on for presentation)
 ¼ tsp salt
 ¼ tsp black pepper
 ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
For the Garlic Oil
 ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
 ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)
 1 tbsp dry sherry or white wine (optional, for added depth)
 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
 Zest of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
For Serving
 Crusty bread (baguette or ciabatta), sliced and toasted
 Extra lemon wedges
 More fresh parsley for garnish
Prepare the Prawns
1

Season the Prawns:

  • Pat the prawns dry with a paper towel.
  • Toss with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Set aside.
Cook the Garlic Oil
2

  • Heat the Olive Oil:
    • In a large skillet over medium-low heat, add extra virgin olive oil.
  • Sauté the Garlic:
    • Add thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes.
    • Cook gently for 1-2 minutes until garlic is fragrant and lightly golden (do not burn!).
  • Deglaze with Sherry (Optional):
    • Pour in dry sherry or white wine, stirring for 30 seconds.
Cook the Prawns
3

  • Increase Heat to Medium-High:
    • Add the seasoned prawns to the pan.
  • Sauté Quickly:
    • Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until prawns turn pink and opaque.
  • Finish with Lemon Zest & Parsley:
    • Sprinkle with fresh parsley and lemon zest.
Serve and Garnish
4

  • Plate the Dish:
    • Transfer prawns and garlic oil into a rustic serving dish.
  • Add Garnishes:
    • Sprinkle with extra parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
  • Serve with Crusty Bread:
    • Toast thick slices of bread to dip into the garlic-infused oil.
Pro Tips
5

  • For Extra Flavor: Add a small pinch of saffron or a splash of pimentón (Spanish paprika).
  • To Make Ahead: Prepare the garlic oil in advance, then quickly cook prawns when ready to serve.
  • Wine Pairing: Pairs beautifully with a crisp Albariño or Verdejo wine.

Nutrition Facts

0 servings

Serving size