There’s something incredibly satisfying about the sizzle of garlic hitting hot olive oil, especially when it’s paired with succulent shrimp. This Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp, or Gambas al Ajillo, is a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Spain straight to your kitchen with minimal effort. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser that’s bursting with garlicky goodness, this recipe delivers on both taste and simplicity. The magic lies in its balance—the spicy kick of red pepper flakes, the richness of olive oil, and the freshness of parsley—all coming together in a dish that’s both elegant and effortlessly achievable. Trust me, once you try this, your idea of homemade comfort food will never be the same!
Why Choose Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp?
Bold Flavor: This recipe bursts with vibrant garlic and a hint of spice that wakes up your taste buds. Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests. Simple Ingredients: Just shrimp, olive oil, garlic, and a few pantry staples create a restaurant-quality dish. Versatile: Serve it as a tapa, over pasta, or with crusty bread for dipping. Crowd-Pleaser: The irresistible aroma and flavor make it a guaranteed hit every time!
Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- Large shrimp (peeled and deveined) – Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Garlic cloves – Thinly sliced to infuse the oil with bold, aromatic intensity.
- Extra virgin olive oil – Use high-quality oil to create the rich base that defines Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp.
- Red pepper flakes – Add just the right amount of heat to balance the garlic’s richness.
- Sea salt – Enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness and highlights the garlic flavor.
For Garnish and Serving
- Fresh parsley – Finely chopped to add a fresh, herbal finish.
- Lemon wedges – A squeeze brightens the dish and balances the richness of the olive oil.
- Crusty bread – Perfect for soaking up the garlicky, spicy oil that makes this recipe unforgettable.
How to Make Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp
- Pat Dry: Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps them sear to a delicate golden pink and prevents steaming.
- Heat Oil: Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, about 1 minute, ensuring the pan is ready for garlic infusion.
- Sauté Garlic: Add thinly sliced garlic to the hot oil, stirring constantly until it turns light golden and fragrant, about 1–2 minutes to avoid burning.
- Add Spice: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the infused oil, cooking briefly—about 30 seconds—to bloom the spice and deepen the dish’s signature mild heat.
- Cook Shrimp: Arrange shrimp in a single layer, cooking undisturbed until opaque and pink with slightly crisp edges, about 2 minutes per side for perfect texture.
- Season: Season with sea salt, tossing gently to coat every piece in that fragrant garlic-infused oil, then remove the skillet from heat to prevent overcooking.
- Garnish & Serve: Transfer shrimp to a warm serving dish, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately alongside lemon wedges and crusty bread for that classic dipping experience.
Optional: Serve warm with extra parsley for a bright finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance by cleaning, peeling, and deveining them to have everything ready at your fingertips. Store the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can slice the garlic and measure out the red pepper flakes ahead of time—these can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to make your dish, simply heat the olive oil, sauté the prepared garlic and spices, then add in the shrimp, cooking them until they turn a beautiful golden pink. This approach offers minimal effort with maximum flavor, making dinner a breeze on busy nights!
Variations & Substitutions for Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp
Feel free to get creative and tailor this delicious dish to suit your taste preferences!
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Shrimp Alternatives: Try scallops or firm white fish for a luxurious twist. Both options absorb the garlic-infused oil beautifully.
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Herb Swap: Replace parsley with fresh cilantro or chives for a different flavor profile that adds a personal touch.
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Spice it Up: Add a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a deeper, smoky flavor and a bit more heat. This can enliven the dish with extra warmth.
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Vegetarian Version: Substitute shrimp with mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty, plant-based alternative that still packs a flavorful punch.
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Citrus Zest: Add lemon or lime zest along with the juice for a zesty brightness that elevates the overall flavor.
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Garlic Variation: Experiment with roasted garlic instead of raw for a sweeter, mellower garlic flavor that complements the rich olive oil.
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Extra Crunch: Toss in some pine nuts or sliced almonds before serving, giving the dish a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender shrimp.
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Fiery Version: For those who love heat, incorporate slices of fresh jalapeño or a drizzle of hot sauce right before serving for a fiery kick.
Expert Tips for Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Always choose fresh or properly thawed shrimp to ensure the best texture and flavor in your Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp.
- Pat Shrimp Dry: Removing excess moisture before cooking prevents steaming and helps achieve a perfect golden sear every time.
- Watch Garlic Closely: Garlic burns quickly; sauté just until golden to avoid bitterness that can overpower the dish’s delicate balance.
- Infuse Oil Properly: Heat olive oil until shimmering before adding garlic to fully release its aroma and flavor into the oil.
- Control Spice Level: Add red pepper flakes gradually, tasting as you go to achieve the perfect mild heat without overwhelming the garlic.
- Serve Immediately: This recipe shines best when served right away to enjoy the succulent shrimp and fragrant oil at their freshest.
How to Store and Freeze Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp
- Fridge: Store leftover Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain texture and flavor.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Use within 1 month for best quality.
- Reheating: Thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge, then reheat on medium-low heat until warm. Avoid high heat to prevent rubbery shrimp.
- Meal Prep: Prepare the garlic oil ahead and cook shrimp fresh right before serving for optimal taste and texture.
What to Serve with Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp?
Nothing complements the warm, garlicky goodness of shrimp like a few delicious side dishes to create a truly memorable meal.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful garlic-infused oil, crusty bread adds a satisfying texture to every bite. It’s a traditional accompaniment that completes the tapas experience.
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Garlic Butter Rice: This fragrant side dish echoes the garlic theme and provides a comforting, pillowy contrast to the succulent shrimp. The subtle butter flavor enhances the overall richness.
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Crispy Roasted Potatoes: These golden, crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs add a hearty depth to your meal. They offer a lovely crunch that balances the softness of the shrimp.
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Zesty Arugula Salad: The peppery notes of fresh arugula, tossed with a lemon vinaigrette, introduce a bright freshness that counters the dish’s richness beautifully. Add cherry tomatoes for a pop of color.
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Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant brings a touch of smokiness and char, complementing the flavors of the shrimp while adding a vibrant, colorful plate.
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White Sangria: Sip on a chilled glass of white sangria made with fresh fruits and a splash of citrus for a refreshing drink. It perfectly pairs with the garlicky warmth of the shrimp, making for an unforgettable dining experience.
Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp?
Look for large shrimp that are firm, translucent, and have a fresh ocean scent. Avoid shrimp with dark spots all over or an overly fishy smell. Fresh or properly thawed frozen shrimp work beautifully for this recipe.
What’s the best way to store leftover Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the shrimp tender, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat rather than using a microwave, which can make them rubbery.
Can I freeze cooked Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp? How?
Absolutely! Freeze shrimp by first spreading them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then placing them in the freezer until firm (about 1 hour). Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible, and use within 1 month for the best taste and texture.
What if my garlic burns while cooking?
Burnt garlic turns bitter and can overpower your dish. Keep the heat moderate and stir constantly once garlic is added. Remove the pan from heat as soon as garlic turns golden. If it burns, start fresh with new garlic and oil for the best flavor.
Is this recipe safe for pets or people with allergies?
This dish includes garlic and red pepper flakes, which can be harmful to pets like dogs and cats, so keep it away from them. For those with shellfish allergies, this recipe should be avoided or substituted with a non-shellfish alternative to prevent allergic reactions.
Easy Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp Recipe Packed with Bold Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels.
- Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, about 1 minute.
- Add thinly sliced garlic to the hot oil, stirring constantly until it turns light golden and fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the infused oil, cooking briefly for about 30 seconds.
- Arrange shrimp in a single layer, cooking undisturbed until opaque and pink, about 2 minutes per side.
- Season with sea salt, tossing gently to coat every piece, then remove the skillet from heat.
- Transfer shrimp to a warm serving dish, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges and crusty bread.
