There’s something utterly enchanting about the way the scent of garlic mingles with the ocean breeze when you’re cooking Spanish Garlic Shrimp. Just picture yourself in the kitchen, the warmth of the skillet radiating as the garlic sizzles, turning golden while you prepare to create a dish that feels like a mini-vacation right at home. I found this recipe on a particularly busy weeknight when I longed for a taste that would transport me away from the mundane.
With just a handful of simple ingredients—juicy shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a splash of sherry wine—you can whip up a flavor-packed meal that impresses without overwhelming. It’s a quick, delightful escape that balances ease and elegance, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special gatherings. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this deliciously vibrant dish! Grab your skillet, let’s dive in and experience the magic of Spanish Garlic Shrimp together.
Why will you love Spanish Garlic Shrimp?
Flavorful: The combination of garlic, smoked paprika, and sherry creates a rich and aromatic dish that tantalizes your taste buds.
Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet special enough for entertaining guests.
Versatile: Serve it as a main dish, appetizer, or even as a topping for crusty bread; the options are endless!
Health-Conscious: Packed with protein and nutrients, this recipe offers a satisfying meal without the guilt.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, Spanish Garlic Shrimp is sure to impress all palates!
Spanish Garlic Shrimp Ingredients
• Prepare for a taste sensation!
For the Shrimp
• Whole Shrimp (peeled & de-veined) – 1.5 lbs of fresh or frozen shrimp works wonders for absorbing those delicious flavors.
For the Flavor Base
• Minced Garlic – 3 tbsp adds a fragrant kick that’s essential to the dish.
• Olive Oil – 3 tbsp for a luscious base and to help brown the garlic perfectly.
• Sherry Cooking Wine – 2 tbsp enhances the overall richness and gives depth to the sauce with its unique flavor.
• Smoked Paprika – 1.5 tsp brings warmth and a smoky aroma that’s simply irresistible.
• Red Chili Flakes – 1.5 tsp add a hint of spicy kick that balances the dish beautifully.
For the Finishing Touches
• Lemon Juice – Juice of 1 medium lemon brightens and elevates the flavors, making the dish sing.
• Kosher Salt – To taste, essential for bringing out all those vibrant flavors.
• Chopped Parsley – For garnish, adding a fresh pop of color and flavor to your beautifully cooked shrimp.
• Toasted Bread – Perfect for serving alongside, allowing you to soak up every last drop of that amazing sauce!
Get ready to savor the culinary delight of Spanish Garlic Shrimp that will awaken your senses!
How to Make Spanish Garlic Shrimp
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Preheat your grill or stovetop to medium-high heat, aiming for around 350°F. Place a cast iron skillet on the heat for about one minute before starting, so it’s nice and hot.
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Pour the olive oil into the sizzling skillet, letting it warm up and coat the bottom—this will create a delicious base for your shrimp.
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Add in the minced garlic and red chili flakes. Sauté for about 90 seconds, until the garlic turns golden brown and fragrant—this will infuse the oil with amazing flavor.
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Place the shrimp into the skillet in an even layer—avoid overcrowding for even cooking. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, and let them cook for roughly 90 seconds until they become beautifully pink.
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Flip the shrimp over gently, and then deglaze the skillet by adding the sherry cooking wine and lemon juice. This adds depth and enhances the flavors even further.
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Stir everything together and continue to cook the shrimp for another 1-2 minutes until they’re fully cooked and opaque—be careful not to overcook!
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Remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
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Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch, and serve alongside toasted bread to soak up that irresistible sauce!
Optional: Serve with a side of lemon wedges for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Spanish Garlic Shrimp?
Picture a sunny gathering where the enticing aroma of garlic and spices fills the air, enhancing the joy of shared meals. Elevate your Spanish Garlic Shrimp experience with these delightful pairings!
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Creamy Risotto: A rich and creamy risotto serves as the perfect backdrop, soaking up the shrimp’s flavorful juices for a complete dish.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread not only complements the dish but also allows you to soak up every drop of that irresistible sauce.
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Zesty Green Salad: A fresh, zesty salad with citrus vinaigrette contrasts beautifully with the bold shrimp, offering a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
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Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds a subtle earthiness and vibrant color, enhancing the dish’s nutritional value while keeping it light.
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Spanish Red Wine: A glass of rich Spanish red wine, such as Tempranillo, perfectly balances the spice in the shrimp and elevates your dining experience.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal veggies bring a smoky depth and bright colors to your table, ensuring a variety of textures and flavors to delight everyone.
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Chilled Gazpacho: A refreshing tomato-based gazpacho offers a cool contrast, and its acidity balances the richness of the shrimp beautifully.
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Flan or Churros: End your meal on a sweet note with a traditional flan or churros for a taste of Spanish dessert that’ll leave everyone smiling.
How to Store and Freeze Spanish Garlic Shrimp
Fridge: Store any leftover Spanish Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to avoid overcooking.
Freezer: If you need to freeze it, place the shrimp in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Thawing: Thaw frozen shrimp in the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting for a quick option before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or sherry to the pan to refresh the flavors and prevent drying out.
Make Ahead Options
These Spanish Garlic Shrimp are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to savor this delightful dish even on your busiest days! You can clean and marinate the shrimp in the olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, and red chili flakes up to 24 hours in advance—just make sure to refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the lemon juice and sherry mixture ahead of time and store it separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat your skillet, add the marinated shrimp, deglaze with the prepared mixture, and finish cooking as per the recipe. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Spanish Garlic Shrimp with minimal effort—a perfect solution for busy weeknights!
Spanish Garlic Shrimp Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your creative flair onto this recipe and make it uniquely yours!
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Garlic Lovers: Increase the minced garlic to 5 tbsp for an even bolder flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Citrus Twist: Add zest from the lemon or incorporate lime juice for a vibrant zing that elevates the dish.
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Herb Blend: Replace parsley with fresh cilantro or basil for a completely different flavor profile that still feels fresh and delightful.
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Spicy Kick: Kick up the heat by increasing the red chili flakes or adding diced jalapeños for those who love a fiery finish.
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Creamy Delight: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a luxurious, creamy sauce that adds richness and depth.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini during prep for a colorful and nutritious veggie twist that complements the shrimp beautifully.
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Wine Substitute: Swap the sherry cooking wine for white wine or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a slightly different, yet lovely zing.
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Grilled Version: Skewer the shrimp and grill them for that delightful smoky flavor, perfect for sunny days and outdoor dining!
Expert Tips for Spanish Garlic Shrimp
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Quality Shrimp: Choose fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp; this will significantly enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
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Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than searing, preventing that lovely golden color.
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Timing is Key: Be vigilant about cooking times; shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking can make them tough, ruining your Spanish Garlic Shrimp.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the red chili flakes based on your spice tolerance; tasting as you cook helps balance flavors perfectly.
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Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your shrimp right away, ensuring everyone enjoys the dish while it’s still warm and decadent!
Spanish Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I pick the right shrimp for Spanish Garlic Shrimp?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for those that are firm, plump, and have a mild, fresh scent. If buying frozen, ensure they’re opaque and have no dark spots—these are signs of quality. Size matters too; I often go for medium to large shrimp, as they hold up wonderfully during cooking!
How can I store leftover Spanish Garlic Shrimp?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a dash of olive oil to keep the shrimp moist and flavorful.
Can I freeze Spanish Garlic Shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. For the best texture, avoid freezing shrimp that has been in a creamy or sauce-based recipe.
What’s the best way to thaw frozen shrimp?
I recommend thawing frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight for the best results. If you’re in a pinch, you can also use the microwave’s defrost setting. Just make sure to cook them immediately after thawing to maintain freshness and flavor!
What should I do if my shrimp are overcooked?
If you find that your shrimp are overcooked, don’t worry too much! Unfortunately, there’s not much to do after the fact, but serving them alongside a flavorful sauce can help mask the toughness. For the next time, keep an eye on the cooking time, as shrimp only need about 1-2 minutes on each side at medium-high heat. Cooked shrimp should be opaque and slightly firm when done—just perfect, not tough!
Are there any dietary considerations for Spanish Garlic Shrimp?
Very! This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. However, if you’re feeding someone with shellfish allergies, it’s best to avoid shrimp altogether. You can substitute shrimp with firm tofu or chicken for an alternative dish, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Savor the Flavor: Simple Spanish Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your grill or stovetop to medium-high heat, aiming for around 350°F. Place a cast iron skillet on the heat for about one minute before starting.
- Pour the olive oil into the sizzling skillet, letting it warm up and coat the bottom.
- Add in the minced garlic and red chili flakes. Sauté for about 90 seconds until the garlic is golden brown and fragrant.
- Place the shrimp into the skillet in an even layer. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, and let them cook for roughly 90 seconds until they become pink.
- Flip the shrimp gently, then deglaze the skillet by adding the sherry cooking wine and lemon juice.
- Stir everything together and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes until shrimp are fully cooked and opaque.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve alongside toasted bread.