Mediterranean Diet Friendly Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)
Few dishes capture the spirit of Mediterranean cooking as effortlessly as this one — a sizzling skillet of plump shrimp bathed in golden, garlicky olive oil with just enough heat from red pepper flakes to keep things interesting. Extra-virgin olive oil is the backbone here, and using a generous pour of it isn't an indulgence but the whole point, creating a glossy, fragrant sauce that begs to be soaked up with crusty bread. Thinly sliced garlic goes in first, coaxed slowly until pale and fragrant before the shrimp ever hit the pan — that patience is what builds the deep, savory base the dish is known for. The shrimp cook fast over medium-high heat, just a couple of minutes per side until they're pink, curled, and perfectly opaque. A bright hit of fresh lemon juice and a shower of flat-leaf parsley at the end cut through the richness and pull everything together. This is the kind of recipe that looks and tastes far more impressive than the short ingredient list suggests, and it fits naturally into a way of eating that leans on olive oil, seafood, fresh herbs, and simple, honest flavors. Serve it straight from the pan while it's still bubbling — that's the only way to do it justice.
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!