Camarones al Ajillo con Limón y Perejil

Camarones al Ajillo con Limón y Perejil, a cherished dish originating from coastal regions of Spain, celebrates the vibrant flavors of fresh seafood and the fragrant herbs of the Mediterranean. This recipe features succulent shrimp, enhanced with the aromatic warmth of garlic, the brightness of lemon, and the herbal freshness of parsley. The shrimp are quickly sautéed to achieve a tender, juicy texture while retaining their natural sweetness. This dish, often enjoyed as a tapa or a light main course, embodies the spirit of communal dining, where friends and family gather to savor each bite and share stories. It's a perfect representation of the Mediterranean lifestyle, emphasizing fresh, quality ingredients and simple preparation techniques. Serve alongside a light pilaf to soak up the flavorful juices, and enjoy a delightful culinary experience steeped in tradition.

Time to complete

Prep

15min

Cook

5min

Wait

0 minutes

Total

20min

Ingredients (Makes 4 portions)

Main Ingredients

  • 1 kg fresh shrimp (preferably large)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, crushed
  • the leaves of 1 bunch of parsley, finely chopped
  • zest of 1 organic lemon
  • juice of 1/2 lemon
  • salt, to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 120
  • Fat: 6
  • Protein: 20
  • Carbohydrates: 2
  • Fiber: 0
Directions

Preparation

  • 1. Begin by cleaning the shrimp, removing their shells while keeping the heads for added flavor.

Sautéing the Shrimp

  • 2. In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over high heat until very hot.

Cooking the Shrimp

  • 3. Add the shrimp to the pan and sauté for about 2 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 1 minute until they turn pink but remain tender.

Adding Aromatics

  • 4. Add the crushed garlic to the pan during the last minute of cooking.

Finishing Touches

  • 5. Deglaze the pan with the lemon juice, and after a few seconds, remove from heat.

Serving

  • 6. Season with salt, freshly cracked pepper, lemon zest, paprika, and chopped parsley. Gently toss to combine.

Presentation

  • 7. Serve immediately, drizzling with a little extra virgin olive oil if desired, alongside a pilaf garnished with lemon zest and parsley.
Cookix's Secrets

Cooking Method

  • Grill the shrimp instead of sautéing for a smoky flavor.

Cooking Technique

  • Ensure your pan is hot enough to quickly sear the shrimp, which helps retain moisture.

Garnishing

  • Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or chives for a unique twist.

Herb Variations

  • Substitute parsley with basil or dill for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the juices.

Shrimp Selection

  • For the best flavor, choose fresh, large shrimp.

Spice Variations

  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.