Spanish Garlic Shrimp with Spanish Chorizo (Gambas al Ajillo)

Bring the vibrant flavors of Spain to your table with this irresistible Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo) featuring the rich, smoky essence of Spanish Chorizo. Perfect as a tapa or a main course, this dish combines tender shrimp, aromatic garlic, and the spicy allure of Spanish Chorizo for an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or craving a quick gourmet meal, this recipe delivers the authentic taste of Spain in just 30 minutes. Let's dive into the savory symphony of this classic Spanish delight!

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Serves: 2 as a main course or 3 to 5 as an appetizer

Ingredients:

• 12 cloves garlic
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled (reserve shells)
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of red pepper flakes or a 1-inch piece dried guajillo chili
• 1 1/2 teaspoons sherry vinegar
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
• 4 ounces Aurelia's Spanish Chorizo, thinly sliced

Directions:

1. Prepare the Garlic:
   • Finely mince 4 cloves of garlic and place in a large bowl.
   • Smash 4 cloves under the flat side of a knife and set aside.
   • Thinly slice the remaining 4 cloves and keep separate.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
   • Add shrimp to the bowl with minced garlic. Toss with 3 tablespoons olive oil, 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and baking soda. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
3. Infuse the Oil:
   • Add the reserved shrimp shells and smashed garlic to a skillet with 2 tablespoons olive oil and red pepper flakes. Cook over medium-low heat until shells turn ruby red and garlic is golden, about 10 minutes. Strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer into a small bowl, pressing to extract maximum flavor. Discard the shells and garlic.
4. Cook the Chorizo:
   • Heat the infused oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add Spanish Chorizo slices and cook until slightly crispy, about 3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
5. Cook the Shrimp:
• In the same skillet, add sliced garlic to the flavored oil and cook until golden, about 1 minute. Add marinated shrimp and cook, tossing constantly, until just pink, about 2 minutes.
6. Finish and Serve:
   • Return the cooked Spanish Chorizo to the skillet. Add sherry vinegar and parsley, tossing everything to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
   • Serve immediately with crusty bread to soak up the delicious, flavorful oil.

Pro Tip: Pair this dish with a chilled glass of Spanish Albariño wine for a true taste of Spain.

A Spanish Classic. This Spanish Garlic Shrimp with Spanish Chorizo is a classic Spanish dish as it exemplifies the essence of Spanish cuisine—a celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients, bold flavors, and a communal spirit. The combination of fresh seafood, robust garlic, and the smoky depth of Spanish Chorizo highlights the culinary traditions of Spain, making it a timeless favorite for any occasion.