Name: Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Juice of 1/2 lemon; Crusty bread for serving

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re searching for a show-stopper that’s as easy as it is irresistible, look no further than Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight. This classic Spanish tapa is an absolute flavor bomb—plump shrimp bathed in a sizzling garlicky olive oil, a hint of smoky paprika, and finished with bright parsley and a touch of lemon. It’s quick, foolproof, and turns any meal into a festive occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or craving a taste of the Mediterranean on a weeknight, Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight brings the heart of Spain right to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight comes from its short list of ingredients—each one pulling more than its fair share to create a sensational result. Fresh shrimp, quality olive oil, and a generous punch of garlic give this dish its signature punch, while smoked paprika and fresh herbs add complexity and color that set it apart.

Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Go for the freshest shrimp you can find; they’re the star and should taste sweet and juicy.
Garlic cloves (6, thinly sliced): The more, the merrier! Thin slices toast beautifully and infuse the oil with bold flavor.
Extra virgin olive oil (1/4 cup): Use a fruity, good-quality olive oil, since it forms the backbone of the irresistible sauce.
Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): This spice adds earthy warmth and a signature Spanish undertone; don’t skip it!
Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a gentle kick—adjust to your preferred level of heat or omit entirely.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Enhances the natural flavors and balances out the richness of the oil.
Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Chopped parsley brings brightness and a fresh, herby finish to each bite.
Lemon juice (from 1/2 lemon): A quick squeeze at the end lifts all the other flavors and adds lovely zest.
Crusty bread (for serving): Essential for sopping up every last drop of garlicky, paprika-spiked oil.

How to Make Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

Begin by patting your shrimp dry with paper towels—this encourages a gorgeous sear in the pan. Toss the shrimp in a bowl with salt, black pepper, and that captivating smoked paprika. Give them a gentle mix, making sure each shrimp is glistening with those vibrant seasonings. This quick step guarantees flavor in every bite and sets your Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight apart from the rest.

Step 2: Infuse the Olive Oil

Next, take a large skillet (cast iron is wonderful here, but any will do), and add your extra virgin olive oil. Place the pan over medium heat and, once warm, scatter in the thinly sliced garlic and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Stir gently and let the garlic sizzle for 1–2 minutes—watch for that golden hue and aromatic fragrance, but don’t let it go past golden or it’ll turn bitter.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer, making sure each piece gets a direct line of contact with the flavorful oil. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until the shrimp turn deliciously pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, since shrimp are best when they’re tender and juicy—not tough!

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Right at the finish line, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the shrimp and shower everything with chopped fresh parsley. Stir once or twice off the heat to meld the flavors together. That zesty hit from the lemon makes every flavor sing, while the parsley keeps things fresh and vibrant—it’s what takes Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight to the next level.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Pile the sizzling shrimp into a serving dish and don’t forget the golden, garlicky oil—this is liquid gold! Bring the pan right to the table with plenty of crusty bread alongside. Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight is best enjoyed hot and straight out of the skillet, while the aroma still dances in the air.

How to Serve Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight

Garnishes

For an extra pop of color and freshness, scatter more chopped parsley over the top just before serving. A light drizzle of fresh lemon juice, or even a few wedges on the side, make it look as bright and inviting as it tastes. Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight doesn’t need much more—its beauty is in its simplicity.

Side Dishes

Pair Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight with warm crusty bread (this is non-negotiable, because that garlicky oil is made for dipping!). On the side, you might want a crisp green salad, a platter of olives, or some Spanish-style roasted potatoes. And if you’re feeling festive, pour a glass of chilled white wine to match—perfection.

Creative Ways to Present

Embrace a true tapas vibe by serving your shrimp straight from the skillet or in small terracotta dishes. This not only keeps with tradition but also entices everyone to gather around and dig in. If you’re planning a party, try portioning the shrimp onto little skewers or crostini for easy, elegant bites that celebrate the Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight spirit.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (it’s rare!), transfer your Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. The flavors will continue to meld, making tomorrow’s snack or meal just as delicious. Aim to enjoy within 2 days for the best texture.

Freezing

While shrimp are best fresh, you can freeze Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight if needed. Spread the cooled shrimp and oil in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently; just note, the texture may soften a bit upon thawing, but the flavor remains outstanding.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the shrimp and oil in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaves if possible, since they can toughen the shrimp. If the oil looks too thick from chilling, add a splash more olive oil before reheating to bring everything back to life.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before starting. This helps them sear beautifully and prevents any watery sauce. Fresh shrimp are ideal for flavor, but high-quality frozen shrimp work wonders for convenience.

Is it possible to make this dish less spicy?

Yes—simply leave out the red pepper flakes for a milder Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight. The dish is still packed with flavor from garlic, smoked paprika, and lemon, so you won’t miss any excitement.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Definitely! The Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight is naturally gluten-free—just be mindful to serve it with gluten-free bread or another dipping option for celiacs and gluten-sensitive guests.

What protein alternatives can I use?

While shrimp are the star of the show, you could swap in sea scallops or chunks of firm white fish. The garlic, paprika, and olive oil work well with a variety of seafood, but shrimp deliver the most classic Spanish experience.

Why is the olive oil so important here?

The olive oil isn’t just for cooking—it becomes a luscious, savory sauce that soaks up all the garlic and spices, making Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight unforgettable. Always opt for the best quality extra virgin olive oil you can find.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to bring Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight into your kitchen. This dish is a celebration of bold flavors and easy elegance—perfect for weeknight treats or sharing with friends. Grab some bread, pour a little wine, and make tonight a little more magical!

Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 16 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the flavors of Spain with this delicious Spanish Garlic Shrimp Delight recipe. Succulent shrimp cooked in fragrant garlic-infused olive oil, with a hint of smoked paprika and a zing of lemon, served with crusty bread for a delightful meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Garlic:

6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

Olive Oil Mixture:

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Finishing Touches:

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Crusty bread for serving

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Season Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Saute Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cook until fragrant.
Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp in a single layer, cook until pink and opaque.
Finish: Squeeze lemon juice, sprinkle parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread.