Delicious Spanish Garlic Prawns (Gambas al Ajillo) Recipe – A Flavorful Tapas Dish

If you’re craving a dish that combines bold flavors, a hint of spice, and succulent seafood, look no further than Spanish Garlic Prawns (Gambas al Ajillo). This classic Spanish dish is known for its simple yet unforgettable flavors. It’s a popular tapas dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or a casual tapas night, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the world of Gambas al Ajillo and learn how to make this savory delight!

What are Spanish Garlic Prawns (Gambas al Ajillo)?

Gambas al Ajillo is a traditional Spanish dish made with prawns, garlic, olive oil, and spices. The word “gambas” means prawns in Spanish, and “ajillo” refers to the garlic-infused oil that the prawns are cooked in. The prawns are sautéed with sliced garlic, red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, smoked paprika for depth, and fresh parsley for a burst of freshness. The dish is typically served hot with lemon wedges on the side, and often paired with crusty bread to soak up all the flavorful oil.

Why Gambas al Ajillo is a Popular Spanish Tapas Dish

Tapas are small, flavorful dishes commonly served in Spain. They are designed to be shared and enjoyed in a social setting. Gambas al Ajillo is one of the most beloved tapas dishes due to its simplicity and the rich, aromatic flavors of garlic and olive oil. It can be found in most Spanish restaurants, from casual bars to fine dining establishments. The combination of prawns and garlic is universally loved, making this dish a staple in Spanish cuisine.

Ingredients for Spanish Garlic Prawns (Gambas al Ajillo)

To recreate this delicious dish at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb large prawns, peeled and deveined
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful, aromatic dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Gambas al Ajillo

Making Spanish Garlic Prawns (Gambas al Ajillo) is simple and quick, but it requires careful attention to detail to ensure the prawns turn out perfectly tender and flavorful. Let’s walk through the steps:

1. Prepare the Prawns

Start by rinsing the prawns under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This ensures that the prawns are dry and ready to be sautéed. It also helps to prevent the oil from splattering when they hit the pan.

2. Cook the Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to cook the garlic until it becomes fragrant and golden, but not burnt. Burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the dish, so be sure to watch it closely.

3. Add the Prawns

Once the garlic is perfectly golden, it’s time to add the prawns to the skillet. Arrange the prawns in a single layer so that they cook evenly. Sprinkle the prawns with red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. The red pepper flakes will give the prawns a little kick, while the smoked paprika adds a smoky, earthy depth of flavor.

4. Cook the Prawns

Cook the prawns for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. The prawns should be tender and juicy, with a slightly crispy edge from the garlic-infused oil. Once cooked, remove the prawns from the heat.

5. Finish the Dish

Add the lemon juice to the pan and stir to combine. The lemon juice will brighten up the flavors and add a tangy contrast to the richness of the garlic oil. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the prawns for a fresh, herbal touch.

6. Serve

Serve the Gambas al Ajillo immediately, garnished with extra lemon wedges on the side. The prawns can be enjoyed on their own, or served with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful garlic oil.

Tips for Making Perfect Gambas al Ajillo

To elevate your Gambas al Ajillo to the next level, consider these tips:

• Use Fresh Prawns: The fresher the prawns, the better the flavor. If you can get your hands on fresh prawns, use them. If using frozen prawns, make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
• Don’t Overcook the Prawns: Prawns cook quickly, so be sure not to overcook them. Overcooked prawns can become rubbery, which will affect the texture of the dish.
• Adjust the Spice: If you love spice, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you prefer a milder version, you can skip the red pepper flakes altogether.
• Use High-Quality Olive Oil: Since olive oil is the base of this dish, using a good-quality extra virgin olive oil will significantly enhance the flavor.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: While parsley is the traditional garnish, feel free to experiment with other herbs like cilantro for a slightly different flavor.

Why You’ll Love Spanish Garlic Prawns (Gambas al Ajillo)

This dish is perfect for those who appreciate bold, garlicky flavors and a bit of heat. It’s easy to make, and the ingredients are simple, yet the result is always impressive. Gambas al Ajillo brings the essence of Spanish cuisine right into your home, making it ideal for dinner parties, special occasions, or a cozy meal for two.

The prawns are tender, the garlic is fragrant, and the combination of smoked paprika and red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of spice. Serve it with crusty bread, and you’ve got yourself a dish that’s full of flavor and sure to please your guests.

FAQs About Spanish Garlic Prawns (Gambas al Ajillo)

Q1: Can I make Gambas al Ajillo without red pepper flakes?
Yes, you can skip the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder dish. The recipe will still be delicious, with the garlic and smoked paprika taking center stage.

Q2: What type of prawns should I use for Gambas al Ajillo?
Use large, peeled and deveined prawns for the best results. You can use fresh or frozen prawns, but make sure they are thawed and patted dry if using frozen.

Q3: Can I substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika?
Smoked paprika adds a distinct smoky flavor to the dish, but you can use regular paprika if you don’t have smoked paprika on hand. However, the flavor profile may differ slightly.

Q4: Can I serve Gambas al Ajillo with something other than bread?
While crusty bread is a classic choice to soak up the garlic oil, you can also serve Gambas al Ajillo with rice, quinoa, or even a side of sautéed vegetables.

Q5: How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a few fresh slices of jalapeño to the pan while cooking the prawns.

Conclusion: Why Gambas al Ajillo is a Must-Try Dish

Spanish Garlic Prawns (Gambas al Ajillo) is a dish that brings the bold flavors of Spanish cuisine to your table with minimal effort. The tender prawns, infused with garlic, olive oil, and smoked paprika, are a treat for the senses. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a flavorful meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and experience the joy of authentic Spanish tapas right in your own kitchen!

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