Garlic Sautéed Shrimp: 10-Minute Delight for Your Table

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Garlic Sautéed Shrimp is a classic Spanish tapas dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table in just 10 minutes. This dish, also known as Gambas al Ajillo, features succulent shrimp sautéed in olive oil with fragrant garlic and a hint of spice. The combination of garlic, smoked paprika, and a splash of white wine creates a delightful sauce that pairs perfectly with crusty bread or served over pasta. You’ll be amazed at how such a simple recipe can deliver such incredible taste!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Sautéed Shrimp

This Garlic Sautéed Shrimp recipe is not just quick but also incredibly rewarding. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

It’s ready in just 10 minutes, making it a perfect quick garlic shrimp dinner.
Succulent shrimp cooked in garlic and olive oil create a rich flavor.
This dish is versatile—serve it as an appetizer or main course.
It’s a gluten-free option, suitable for many diets.
Perfect for impressing guests at your next dinner party.
It offers a delightful balance of garlic and spice, making it a spicy garlic sautéed shrimp dish if desired.

Ingredients for Garlic Sautéed Shrimp

Gather these items:

1 pound raw spot prawns (with heads and shells on)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
A pinch of sea salt
6-8 garlic cloves, lightly crushed and thinly sliced
2 dried Cayenne chillies (optional)
4 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons white wine (or sherry)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for serving
Lemon wedges for serving
Crusty bread for serving

How to Make Garlic Sautéed Shrimp Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a wide frying pan over medium heat, add the olive oil, garlic slices, and dried chillies. Gently fry for 1 minute until the garlic softens but does not brown.
Step 2: Turn up the heat to high and add the prawns in a single layer along with smoked paprika and a pinch of sea salt. Fry for 1 minute.
Step 3: Pour in the white wine or sherry, flip the prawns, and continue cooking for 2 minutes until the prawns turn pink.
Step 4: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional salt if desired. Serve promptly with lemon wedges and crusty bread.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Garlic Sautéed Shrimp

Keep these in mind:

Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Adjust the number of chillies based on your spice preference.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in the best garlic shrimp marinade before cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Garlic Sautéed Shrimp

Here are some serving suggestions:

Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic sauce.
Pair it with a fresh salad for a healthy garlic shrimp meal.
Try it over pasta for a mouthwatering garlic shrimp pasta recipe.

How to Store and Reheat Garlic Sautéed Shrimp

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Remember, the total time for this dish is just 10 minutes, so it’s perfect for quick meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Sautéed Shrimp

What’s the secret to perfect Garlic Sautéed Shrimp?

The secret lies in not overcooking the shrimp. They should be cooked until just pink and tender. This ensures they remain juicy and flavorful.

Can I make Garlic Sautéed Shrimp ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Cook them just before serving for the best taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Garlic Sautéed Shrimp?

Avoid cooking at too high a heat, which can burn the garlic and toughen the shrimp. Keep the temperature moderate to achieve perfect results.

Variations of Garlic Sautéed Shrimp You Can Try

Here are some delightful variations:

Garlic lemon shrimp: Add fresh lemon juice and zest for a citrusy twist.
Garlic shrimp stir-fry: Toss in your favorite vegetables for a colorful, healthy dish.
Garlic sautéed shrimp with vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for added nutrition.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet or try the Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss our Blueberry Coffee Cake Recipe!

For more information on the health benefits of garlic, you can visit Healthline.