BHA & BHT Free Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)
Few dishes hit as hard as a sizzling pan of garlicky shrimp straight from the stove, and this Spanish classic delivers that smoky, fragrant punch every single time. Every ingredient here is whole and unprocessed — fresh shrimp, real garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and parsley — so there's no need to squint at a label hunting for synthetic preservatives hiding in the fine print. That matters more than people realize, since BHA and BHT tend to sneak into packaged seafood products, seasoning blends, and even some cooking oils. Here, the olive oil does all the heavy lifting, turning golden and fragrant as the garlic softens and the red pepper flakes bloom into something deeply savory. The shrimp cook fast over high heat, staying juicy and tender with just the right amount of char at the edges. A squeeze of fresh lemon and a shower of flat-leaf parsley finish the whole thing off with brightness. Serve it straight from the pan with crusty bread and you've got a showstopper that's as clean as it is delicious.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 ½ lb large shrimp (21–25 count), peeled and deveined, tails on
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
For serving
- lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Pat the shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels, then season evenly with the salt and black pepper.
- 2
Pour the olive oil into a large (10–12-inch) skillet or cazuela and set over medium heat until the oil shimmers and a garlic slice dropped in sizzles immediately, about 2 minutes.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!