Delicious Spanish Garlic Shrimp Recipe: Easy Dinner in 30 Minutes

Name: Delicious Spanish Garlic Shrimp Recipe: Easy Dinner in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; 6 cloves garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; ¼ cup dry white wine; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lemon, juiced

Posted on August 3, 2025

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Picture this: a sizzling skillet, the aroma of garlic dancing in the air, and juicy shrimp turning a beautiful shade of pink. Honestly, nothing beats the excitement of whipping up a Spanish garlic shrimp dish in just 30 minutes. It’s a weeknight hero, and trust me, you’ll want to make it again and again!

I first stumbled upon this recipe during a trip to Spain, where I fell in love with the simple yet bold flavors of their cuisine. The way garlic and shrimp come together is just magical! This dish is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for impressing dinner guests or treating yourself to a delightful meal after a long day. Plus, you probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already!

So, why is this Spanish garlic shrimp recipe so special? It’s packed with flavor, takes minimal effort, and is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have everything you need already—no fancy grocery trips required!
Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for a cozy dinner, entertaining guests, or even a romantic meal at home.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish gets rave reviews from both kids and adults alike, making it a family favorite.
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of garlic, olive oil, and shrimp creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.

What makes this Spanish garlic shrimp recipe stand out is the technique of cooking shrimp just right—juicy and tender, not rubbery. Plus, the addition of a splash of white wine and a sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end gives it a restaurant-quality touch. After making this dish countless times, I’ve honed it to perfection and can’t wait to share it with you!

Ingredients Needed

This recipe utilizes simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavors without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

Shrimp: 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Olive oil: ¼ cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil (adds richness)
Garlic: 6 cloves, minced (the star of the dish)
Red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon (adjust for spice preference)
White wine: ¼ cup (60ml), dry (for depth of flavor)
Fresh parsley: ¼ cup, chopped (for garnish)
Salt and pepper: to taste
Lemon: 1, juiced (for brightness)

While these are the core ingredients, feel free to swap out the white wine for chicken or vegetable broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. And if you can’t find fresh parsley, dried works in a pinch—though fresh really makes a difference!

Equipment Needed

Large skillet: For sautéing the shrimp and infusing all those wonderful flavors.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measurements of the ingredients.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and mixing.
Knife and cutting board: For mincing garlic and chopping parsley.

Don’t fret if you don’t have a fancy skillet! A regular frying pan works just fine. Just ensure it’s large enough to fit all the shrimp without overcrowding them.

Preparation Method

Start by prepping your ingredients. Peel and devein the shrimp, then mince the garlic and chop the parsley. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot, but not smoking! Just give it a minute or so.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned—burnt garlic can taste bitter, and we don’t want that!
Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and stir for another minute. This is where the magic starts happening!
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches.
Once the shrimp are cooked, pour in the white wine and let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add salt and pepper to taste, then squeeze in the juice of one lemon. This brightens up the flavors beautifully!
Finally, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top, give it a good stir, and remove from heat.
Serve immediately over your choice of pasta, rice, or with crusty bread!

Don’t forget to keep an eye on the shrimp; they cook quickly, and no one likes overcooked seafood! If they start curling up, you know they’re done.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but I’ve learned a few tips to ensure they come out perfect every time!

Freshness matters: Always choose fresh shrimp when possible. Frozen shrimp works too, but make sure you thaw them properly beforehand.
Don’t overcook: Shrimp cook fast; they only need a few minutes. Keep an eye on them, and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink.
Flavor infusion: Allowing the garlic to cook gently without browning helps prevent bitterness. Also, feel free to add other aromatics like shallots or even a bay leaf for extra depth.
Timing: While the shrimp cook, you can boil your pasta or rice to save on time. Multitasking is key!

And remember, practice makes perfect! If you notice your shrimp are sometimes rubbery, try adjusting the cooking time. Every stove is different!

Variations & Adaptations

This Spanish garlic shrimp recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are a few variations to try:

Herb Variation: Substitute parsley with fresh cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Option: Swap shrimp for firm tofu or chickpeas; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Different Cooking Methods: Grill the shrimp on skewers for a smoky flavor or prepare it in an air fryer for a healthier twist.

These variations can open up a whole new world of flavors, so feel free to get creative!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

For serving, I recommend presenting this dish over a bed of fluffy rice or al dente pasta. A sprinkle of extra parsley on top adds a nice touch! Pair it with a crisp salad and a glass of white wine for a full experience.

As for storage, you can keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water to keep it from drying out. I wouldn’t recommend freezing it, as shrimp can lose their texture once thawed.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Spanish garlic shrimp dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Shrimp are high in protein and low in calories, making them a fantastic choice for a healthy meal. They’re also a great source of selenium and vitamin B12.

Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 250
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Sodium: 400mg

This dish is gluten-free and can easily be made low-carb by serving it with zucchini noodles instead of pasta. Just keep in mind possible allergens related to shellfish!

Conclusion

In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious Spanish garlic shrimp dinner that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress! I encourage you to customize this recipe based on your preferences, whether it’s adding more spice or swapping ingredients. I love making this dish not just for its taste but also for how it brings my family together around the table.

If you give this recipe a try, please share your thoughts in the comments! I love hearing about your adaptations and experiences. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them properly before using.

What can I serve with garlic shrimp?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How do I know when shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp turn pink and opaque when they’re done. They should also curl slightly but not be tightly curled.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and cook them right before serving.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a mild heat from the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust it based on your spice preference!

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