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Gambas al Ajillo | Traditional Shrimp/Prawn Dish From Spain, Western Europe | TasteAtlas
Gambas al Ajillo | Traditional Shrimp/Prawn Dish From Spain, Western Europe | TasteAtlas
Gambas al Ajillo | Traditional Shrimp/Prawn Dish From Spain, Western Europe | TasteAtlas
Gambas al Ajillo | Traditional Shrimp/Prawn Dish From Spain, Western Europe | TasteAtlas
Gambas al Ajillo | Traditional Shrimp/Prawn Dish From Spain, Western Europe | TasteAtlas

Gambas al ajillo

Gambas al ajillo is a popular Spanish appetizer consisting of shrimps that are sautéed in a pan with minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, and olive oil. The dish is usually consumed as a tapa. It is recommended to garnish gambas al ajillo with chopped parsley and pair it with some crusty bread on the side, which is useful for mopping up the flavorful sauce.

Gambas al ajillo-infographic

Pairing tips

Wine Appellation

Rías Baixas

Rías Baixas is a Spanish appellation located along the Atlantic coast in Galicia. The entire region is divided into five subregions: Salnes Valley, O Rosal,... Read more

Recipe variations

  • 5.0

    Basic Gambas al Ajillo

    READY IN 15min

    This recipe makes a simple, basic version of this Spanish classic. All that is required is shrimps, garlic, chili pepper, extra virgin olive oil, and salt. 

  • 5.0

    Traditional Garlic Shrimp by Jose Andres

    READY IN 9min

    This is a recipe by the legendary José Andrés, a famous Spanish chef. It does not diverge much from tradition, but it does include additional elements—lemon juice and brandy—which add depth and a slightly different character. 

  • 5.0

    Gambas al Ajillo with Sherry

    READY IN 20min

    This recipe follows tradition except for the addition of sherry, which is added to the shrimp during cooking. It can be made in four individual clay pots or in a large frying pan. 

Gambas al ajillo Authentic recipe

PREP 10min
COOK 5min
READY IN 15min

This recipe makes a simple, basic version of this Spanish classic. All that is required is shrimps, garlic, chili pepper, extra virgin olive oil, and salt. 

WHERE TO EAT The best Gambas al ajillo in the world (according to food experts)

Ratings