Gambas al ajillo, the Spanish delicious shrimp with garlic

The Spanish Gambas al Ajillo or garlic shrimp is an appetizer than can be found in all the bars and restaurants in Spain. It is also one of the most popular tapas in the country. The recipe for gambas al ajillo is easy, quick and simple. Make sure that the products you buy to prepare it are fresh and of high-quality. If possible, prepare the recipe in clay dishes.

This dish so popular in Spanish cuisine, is particularly typical in the south and centre of the country. To make it, the main ingredients are peeled shrimp or prawns, garlic and olive oil. Parsley and pepper give it even a more delicious touch. Shall we start?

Ingredients for the gambas al ajillo recipe:

• 0,5 kg (1 pound) of shrimp
• 1 head of garlic (finely minced)
• 1 small cayenne pepper (if desired)
• Olive oil
• Parsley
• Salt and black pepper

Directions:

1. Shell and devein the shrimp. When you have them ready, set aside.
2. Peel the cloves from the head of garlic and set aside as well.
3. Add olive oil to a frying pan (preferably a clay dish) and heat over medium heat. Then add the garlic and the cayenne pepper. It is important to maintain a medium heat, the garlic should never brown in order to obtain the perfect gambas al ajillo!
4. When the garlic starts to sizzle, add the shrimp and sauté.
5. Season with salt and pepper and continue to cook over medium heat until the shrimp are tender.
6. Add parsley, stir, serve and enjoy this delicious and easy gambas al ajillo recipe!

They should be eaten quickly, before they get cold. In addition, this tapa is usually eaten with wine (white, red or black) to enhance its flavour even more. Try it, it will become a must!