Gambas al Ajillo: Intense Flavor in Every Bite

The Gambas al Ajillo they are one of the tops most representative of the Spanish cuisine, taste the bold and preparation fast and easy. This dish, which brings together the freshness and delicacy of the shrimp with the characteristic flavor of the garlic, golden in olive oil, has earned a privileged place in the tables of the whole world. In its most traditional garlic prawns are made with just a few ingredients, but each one of them contributes to create a symphony of mediterranean flavours that captivates the senses.

The spicy touch of the chili pepper, optional but highly recommended, it elevates the flavor and gives a turn delicious that enhances the profile of the recipe. In addition, the simplicity of their preparation makes this dish an ideal choice for a fast dinner to impress your guests with a plate full of personality. Let's discover how to prepare this jewel of Spanish cuisine!

Ingredients for a delicious Gambas al Ajillo

Ingredients (For 4 people approx.)

• 500 g of fresh prawns
• 6 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
• Chilli to taste (optional)
• Extra virgin olive oil (about 4 tablespoons)
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped

Preparation

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Peel the prawns, removing the skin and the viscera, leaving only the edible part. If you prefer to leave them with the shell, you can do it, as this will add more flavor to the dish.
   
   
2. Saute the Garlic: In a large frying pan and deep, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When hot, add the cloves of garlic finely chopped. Cook the garlic for 1-2 minutes, until browned slightly. Be careful not to let it burn, as this may destroy the dish.
   
   
3. Add the Chilli pepper (Optional): If you decide to include the spicy touch, add the chilli to the oil with the garlic and cook for a few seconds to release their flavor.
   
   
4. Cook the Shrimp: Incorporates the shrimp to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they are pink and fully cooked. The shrimp cook very quickly, so be sure not to leave them too long in the pan to prevent hardening.
   
   
5. Add the Parsley: Once the shrimp are ready, add the fresh chopped parsley and mix well to infuse the flavors.
   
   
6. Serve: Serves the Gambas al Ajillo immediately, accompanied by a slice of bread to dip in the oil, flavoured, and voila!
   
   

Nutritional information per Serving

The Gambas al Ajillo they are a light meal, full of protein, and with a content moderate healthy fats thanks to the olive oil. Here you'll find the nutritional information on the approximate per serving:

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Proteins: 30 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Sugars: 0 g
• Sodium: 250 mg

History and Origin of the Gambas al Ajillo

The origin of the Gambas al Ajillo it goes back to the tradition of Spanish tapas, small portions of food that are served as a snack or for sharing between friends and family. Although the exact recipe of gambas al ajillo is not documented in the history books, it is believed that the dish originated in the southern region of Spain, specifically in Andalusia. The warm climate and the abundance of fresh seafood on the andalusian coast facilitated the creation of simple recipes, but delicious as this.

The key to the flavor of the Gambas al Ajillo lies in the combination of high quality ingredients: fresh garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and chili pepper. Garlic, one of the pillars of the mediterranean cuisine, brings a strong flavor and fragrance that blends perfectly with the fresh prawns. The olive oil with its antioxidant properties, not only taste, but also serves as a basis to release the aromas of garlic and chilli.

In Spain, the Gambas al Ajillo not only are popular as cap, but also as a main dish in many occasions, especially during celebrations and family dinners. Served in small clay pots, which helps to maintain the heat of the oil and the shrimp while it is to be enjoyed.

Benefits and Properties of Garlic Prawns

In addition to its incomparable flavor, the Gambas al Ajillo they have several health benefits:

1. Rich in Protein: The prawns are an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for tissue repair and muscle maintenance.
   
   
2. Properties of Garlic: Garlic, one of the fundamental ingredients of this recipe, it has anti-inflammatory properties, antioxidants, and antibacterial. It has also been shown that garlic can help improve cardiovascular health.
   
   
3. Extra Virgin Olive oil: Olive oil is one of the healthier fats that exist. It is full of antioxidants and monounsaturated fatty acids that help reduce the risk of heart disease.
   
   
4. Low Carb: This dish is ideal for those who seek to maintain a low-carbohydrate diet, since the shrimp are almost free of carbohydrates, which makes this dish an option light and healthy.
   
   

Variations and Suggestions for the Gambas al Ajillo

Although the traditional recipe is delicious by itself, you can always make small variations to suit your tastes or what you have available at home. Here are some suggestions:

1. Add Lemon: A hint of fresh lemon juice just before serving will give a tangy flavor that will complement very well the intense flavors of the garlic and the prawns.
   
   
2. Shrimps with Pepper: If you like the more complex flavors, you can add strips of pepper, red or green to give a contrast of crunchy and sweet shrimp.
   
   
3. Accompany with Rice: If you prefer a dish more substantial, you could serve the Gambas al Ajillo on a bed of brown or white rice to make it a main dish complete.
   
   
4. Use Mixed Seafood: If you like seafood, you can add calamari, mussels or clams to make a version number of this dish.
   
   

Tips for a Perfect Dish of Gambas al Ajillo

• Select Fresh Prawns: If you can, choose fresh prawn of good quality. The shrimp frozen also work, but fresh ones have a texture and flavor that is unmatched.

• Not Sobrecocines Shrimp: The shrimp cook up very quickly. Once you put pink, it is a signal they are ready. Cook them in excess can make you become hard and rubbery.

• Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The extra virgin olive oil is not only healthier, but also has a deep flavour and rich, which makes the dish even more delicious.

• Serve Instantly: Garlic prawns should be served immediately after being cooked, so that the oil flavored keep it all its flavor and the shrimp do not lose their freshness.
  
  

Conclusion: A Classic Dish and Full of Flavor

The Gambas al Ajillo they are a recipe for simple but spectacular that combines mediterranean ingredients fresh with a taste full of intensity. Whether as a cover, an appetizer, or a main dish, its fast and its impact flavor sure will leave everyone impressed. Dare to prepare this delicious dish at your home and enjoy a piece of authentic Spanish cuisine at your table!

If this recipe has made your mouth water, don't forget to share it with your friends and family. Subscribe to our blog for more recipes and irresistible as this!