Gambas Al Ajillo (Spanish Garlic Shrimp)

Whenever I have found myself at a Spanish tapas-style restaurant, I ALWAYS order this dish. It is an absolute favorite of mine and so I knew I had to try to replicate it at home. My guess is you will still find the best version of this dish in Barcelona or elsewhere in Spain, BUT…I think I got it pretty close for a homemade version. Use some crisped up bread on the side to sop up all the sauce! I’m a big fan of fresh baguette, but you go ahead and use any vessel you want. I defy you to not lick the plate clean.

NOTE: This dish works particularly well as a side to a larger meal with company. Or you can just devour the whole thing yourself…that works too.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. shrimp, peeled (tail-on optional)

• ¼ cup olive oil

• ¼ cup unsalted butter

• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• Salt and black pepper

• Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)

1. Add butter, olive oil, and red pepper flakes to sauté pan and heat over medium heat and cook for about 1 minute, until butter has liquified.

2. Add garlic, paprika, lemon juice and shrimp and sauté for roughly 4 minutes, until shrimp are cooked through.

3. Season with salt and pepper and pour all into serving dish. Top with parsley if desired and serve with some crusty bread!