Ultimate Recipe for Spanish Garlic Shrimp: A Flavorful Seafood Delight

#### Recipe for Spanish Garlic Shrimp**Description:**If you're looking for a quick, delicious, and impressive dish to serve at your next dinner party, look……

#### Recipe for Spanish Garlic Shrimp

**Description:**

If you're looking for a quick, delicious, and impressive dish to serve at your next dinner party, look no further than the recipe for Spanish garlic shrimp. This dish, known as "Gambas al Ajillo" in Spain, is a classic tapas recipe that showcases the vibrant flavors of garlic, olive oil, and succulent shrimp. With its rich aroma and delightful taste, it's sure to be a hit among your guests.

**Ingredients:**

To prepare this delectable dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

- 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined

- 6-8 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced

- 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil

- 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper

- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

- Lemon wedges (for serving)

- Crusty bread (optional, for dipping)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Shrimp:** Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure that they sear properly and do not steam in the pan.

2. **Heat the Oil:** In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

3. **Add Shrimp and Spices:** Once the garlic is ready, add the shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together, ensuring that the shrimp are well-coated with the garlicky oil. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

4. **Garnish and Serve:** Once the shrimp are cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish, drizzle with any leftover oil from the skillet, and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the shrimp. If desired, accompany the dish with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic-infused oil.

**Tips for the Perfect Spanish Garlic Shrimp:**

- Use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If you can, opt for wild-caught shrimp.

- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.

- This dish is best served immediately after cooking, as the shrimp can become rubbery if left to sit for too long.

**Pairing Suggestions:**

The recipe for Spanish garlic shrimp pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Albariño or Verdejo. For a non-alcoholic option, serve it with a refreshing sparkling water with a slice of lemon.

In conclusion, the recipe for Spanish garlic shrimp is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. Its simplicity and elegance make it a perfect choice for any occasion, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll find yourself transported to the sunny shores of Spain with every bite!