Introduction
Garlic Pan Shrimp, also known as Gambas al Ajillo in Spanish or Scampi-style Shrimp in Italian-American cuisine, is a delicious and easy-to-make seafood dish that is both savory and flavorful. This dish features succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic-infused olive oil, often finished with a kick of chili flakes and fresh parsley. Its origins can be traced back to the Mediterranean, where it’s commonly served as a tapas dish in Spain, though variations can be found in Italy and other Mediterranean regions.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, Garlic Pan Shrimp is a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and can be served as a main or appetizer.
Ingredients
- Shrimp (peeled and deveined, tail-on or tail-off) – 1 pound (450 grams)
- Olive oil – 3 tablespoons (extra virgin for best flavor)
- Garlic – 5-6 cloves (finely sliced or minced)
- Dried red chili flakes – 1 teaspoon (adjust for heat preference)
- Paprika – ½ teaspoon (smoked or regular)
- Lemon – 1 (zest and juice)
- Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- White wine (optional) – 1/4 cup (for added depth of flavor)
- Butter (optional) – 1 tablespoon (for richness, optional)
Method & Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp:
- If the shrimp are not already peeled and deveined, do so, leaving the tail on or off based on your preference. Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Heat the Pan:
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot but not smoking, add the sliced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Sprinkle the chili flakes, paprika, salt, and pepper over the shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until the shrimp starts to turn pink, then flip them over to cook on the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Deglaze the Pan (Optional):
- If using white wine, pour it into the pan once the shrimp are nearly cooked. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce, allowing the shrimp to absorb the flavors of the wine and garlic.
- Finish with Lemon and Butter:
- Squeeze the juice of the lemon over the shrimp and add the lemon zest for a fresh, zesty flavor. Stir in the butter (if using) to make the sauce silky and rich.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp and serve immediately with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the garlicky sauce or over a bed of rice or pasta.
History
Gambas al Ajillo has deep roots in Spanish cuisine, particularly in Andalusia. The dish is a popular tapas item often served at bars, where it is enjoyed with a glass of wine or beer. “Gambas” means shrimp, and “ajillo” refers to the garlic-infused oil used in the dish. While the Spanish take on this dish is by far the most famous, variations exist in many Mediterranean countries, such as Italy, where scampi (a type of shrimp or langoustine) is prepared similarly, often with a buttery garlic sauce and a touch of lemon.
The simplicity of the ingredients speaks to the heart of Mediterranean cooking—using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create intense flavors with minimal effort. In many ways, Gambas al Ajillo embodies the essence of the Spanish way of dining, emphasizing the joy of good food shared with others in a relaxed, social environment.
Benefits
- Protein-rich: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, helping with muscle repair and growth.
- Low in Calories: Shrimp is low in calories and fat, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
- Rich in Nutrients: Shrimp is a good source of essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium, which support energy metabolism, thyroid function, and immune health.
- Heart-healthy fats: The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health and can help reduce inflammation.
- Antioxidant-rich: Garlic, a central ingredient, is loaded with antioxidants that promote heart health and may have immune-boosting properties.
Variations & Tips
- Add Veggies: To make the dish even more filling, consider adding sliced bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes to the pan along with the garlic.
- Spice it Up: For extra heat, add a chopped fresh chili along with the garlic or experiment with smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
- Wine Pairing: A dry white wine like Albariño or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the garlic shrimp, complementing the dish’s flavors without overpowering them.
Formation
The foundation of this recipe lies in the classic Mediterranean technique of cooking seafood with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs, which are staples of the region’s cuisine. The dish is rooted in the Spanish tradition of tapas—small plates meant to be shared among friends and family. In terms of its formation, the key to success with Garlic Pan Shrimp is the technique of cooking the garlic slowly and infusing the oil, followed by quickly sautéing the shrimp to maintain their tenderness. This ensures the shrimp absorb all the rich, garlicky flavors while retaining their juiciness.