There is something irresistibly delicious about the Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe that makes it a true gem in Mediterranean cooking. This classic tapas dish, also known as Gambas al Ajillo, bursts with vibrant flavors from garlic, smoky paprika, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, all infused in luscious olive oil. The prawns turn perfectly tender and juicy, soaking up all those beautiful aromas, making each bite an absolute pleasure. If you want a quick yet impressive seafood recipe that brings the warmth and zest of Spain right to your kitchen, this is the one to try.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keep in mind that the simplicity of this Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe is part of what makes it so special. Every ingredient plays a vital role, from the garlic adding its unmistakable fragrance to the olive oil creating that silky base where all flavors mingle.
- 1 lb large prawns or shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on): The star of the dish, fresh prawns bring sweetness and a satisfying texture.
- 6 cloves garlic (thinly sliced): Infuses the dish with bold, aromatic punch that’s simply unforgettable.
- 1/3 cup olive oil: Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil since it’s the heart of the flavor blend.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a warm, smoky depth perfect for balancing the garlic’s sharpness.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A gentle heat that gives the prawns a subtle kick without overpowering them.
- Salt to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the natural flavors.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Brings a fresh, herbal brightness and lovely color contrast.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon: Adds a fresh, zesty finish that lifts the entire dish.
- Crusty bread for serving: Perfect for soaking up that irresistible garlic-infused oil.
How to Make Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Prawns
Start by patting your prawns dry with paper towels to ensure they sear beautifully. Then, lightly season them with a sprinkle of salt so that the natural sweetness shines through without being masked.
Step 2: Infuse the Olive Oil with Garlic
In a large skillet, warm your olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté gently for about 1 to 2 minutes. Keep a close eye as you want the garlic golden and fragrant but not browned or burnt. This step infuses the oil with rich, aromatic flavor that’s the backbone of the dish.
Step 3: Add Spices and Prawns
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and red pepper flakes into the garlic oil, stirring quickly to mix. Immediately add your seasoned prawns to the pan, spreading them out evenly. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until the prawns turn pink, are opaque, and curl slightly. This quick cooking keeps them tender and juicy.
Step 4: Final Touches
Remove the pan from heat and stir in freshly chopped parsley and the juice of half a lemon. This adds brightness and freshness, balancing the richness of the olive oil and smoky spices perfectly. Serve your prawns right away, while they’re hot and at their most flavorful.
How to Serve Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe
Garnishes
Lightly sprinkle extra fresh parsley over the dish to brighten the look and add a fresh herbaceous note. You can also garnish with thin lemon slices or wedges so everyone can add a little extra citrus if they desire. A crack of black pepper on top is another nice touch for added flavor complexity.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that soak up the flavorful garlic oil. Crusty rustic bread is a must-have to mop up every last drop. For a fuller meal, consider serving alongside a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or fluffy Spanish rice to complement the seafood flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For an authentic tapas experience, serve the Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe in a traditional clay cazuela or shallow earthenware dish. This keeps them warm and adds rustic charm. Alternatively, serve them on a bed of lightly dressed arugula or alongside grilled vegetables for a vibrant plate. Presentation with bright citrus slices and fresh herbs elevates the dish’s inviting look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The prawns will still taste delicious but are best enjoyed within this timeframe to maintain their tender texture and vibrant flavors.
Freezing
Freezing is not ideal for Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe, as prawns tend to lose their texture once thawed. However, if necessary, freeze cooked prawns in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw gently in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your prawns gently in a skillet over low heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Avoid overheating to prevent rubbery texture. Adding a splash of fresh lemon juice after reheating helps revive some brightness lost in storage.
FAQs
Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?
Yes, frozen prawns can be used but it is best to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture and ensure they sear well without steaming.
Is this recipe very spicy?
Not at all. The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, but you can easily adjust or omit them to suit your heat preference while still enjoying all the other rich flavors.
What can I substitute if I don’t have smoked paprika?
Regular paprika or a pinch of chipotle powder can work as alternatives, though smoked paprika’s unique flavor is worth using if you can find it for the authentic Spanish taste.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you serve it without bread or with gluten-free bread options. The ingredients themselves contain no gluten.
How long does it take to prepare and cook?
The Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe is wonderfully quick, taking about 10 minutes for prep and 6 minutes cooking time, perfect for a speedy yet impressive meal.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the simple joy of savoring perfectly cooked prawns bathed in fragrant garlic-infused olive oil. This Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe truly feels like a warm hug from the Mediterranean with every bite. I encourage you to dive in and try it yourself—easy to make, packed with flavor, and absolutely satisfying for any occasion. Once you do, it’s bound to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen as well.
Print
Spanish Garlic Prawns Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Spanish
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Spanish Garlic Prawns, also known as Gambas al Ajillo, is a classic Mediterranean seafood dish featuring succulent prawns sautéed in fragrant garlic-infused olive oil with a hint of smoked paprika and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes. Served hot with crusty bread, this vibrant recipe is perfect as an appetizer or main course and celebrates the bold flavors of Spanish cuisine.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 lb (450g) large prawns or shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
Seasonings & Flavorings
- 6 cloves garlic (thinly sliced)
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Serving
- Crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Prawns: Pat the prawns dry using paper towels and season them lightly with salt to enhance their natural flavor.
- Heat Olive Oil and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and gently sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until it turns golden and releases a fragrant aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter.
- Add Spices and Prawns: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and red pepper flakes (if using), stirring briefly to combine. Immediately add the seasoned prawns to the pan.
- Cook the Prawns: Cook the prawns for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink, become opaque, and slightly curl. This ensures they are cooked through but remain juicy and tender.
- Finish with Lemon and Parsley: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley to add brightness and freshness to the dish.
- Serve Hot: Transfer the garlic prawns to a serving dish and serve them immediately with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful garlic oil.
Notes
- Use high-quality olive oil as it is a key flavor component in the dish.
- Serve immediately while the prawns are hot and juicy for the best taste and texture.
- This dish is traditionally called Gambas al Ajillo in Spanish cuisine and is a popular tapas item.
