Garlic Shrimp Delight
Garlic Shrimp Delight is a vibrant and flavorful dish that captivates the taste buds with its aromatic garlic and zesty lemon essence. This recipe transforms ordinary shrimp into a gourmet meal that is both quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The combination of succulent shrimp and a fragrant garlic-infused olive oil sauce, enhanced by a splash of brandy or dry sherry, introduces a delightful Spanish flair. Paired with a fresh baguette for soaking up the rich sauce, it becomes a complete culinary experience. The addition of fresh parsley and a hint of red pepper flakes provides a perfect balance between freshness and spice. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this dish is sure to impress with its simple yet sophisticated flavors. Garnished beautifully, it's a visual delight that's perfect for sharing. Enjoy the Garlic Shrimp Delight with family and friends around a communal table.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 500 g (approximately 15) tiger prawns
- 100 ml unrefined olive oil
- 60-90 ml Spanish brandy or dry sherry
- 10 large cloves of garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 fresh baguette
Spices & Herbs
- 3 tsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Ensure the oil isn't too hot to prevent burning the ingredients.
- Add Aroma: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about a minute until the garlic is a light golden brown, watching closely to avoid overcooking.
- Boost Heat: Increase the cooking temperature slightly and introduce the tiger prawns to the skillet.
- Incorporate Citrus and Spirits: Pour in the lemon juice and either Spanish brandy or dry sherry.
- Mix Thoroughly: Stir the entire mixture well, ensuring the prawns are evenly coated with sauce.
- Cook the Prawns: Allow the prawns to cook for about 3 minutes, or until they turn a vibrant pink color.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the prawns are opaque and curled, indicating they are perfectly cooked.
- Adjust Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the dish as per your taste.
- Garnish: Finish the dish with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Prepare to Serve: Slice the fresh baguette into servings. It's perfect for mopping up the garlic-infused sauce.
Tips
- Substitutions: If Spanish brandy or sherry isn't available, dry white wine can be a suitable alternative.
- Garlic Preparation: Ensure garlic is finely minced for an even distribution of flavor.
- Cooking Caution: Don't overcook the prawns as they can become tough. Keep them tender and juicy.
Nutritions (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 400
- Protein: 20g
- Fats: 18g
- Carbs: 30g
Variations
- For a Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream at the end for a creamy texture.
- Vegan Alternative: Replace prawns with tofu or mushrooms for a vegan twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- A glass of chilled white wine pairs beautifully with this dish.
- For added zest, garnish with lemon zest and extra red pepper flakes.
Best Places
La Boqueria Tapas - An authentic Spanish tapas experience known for its garlic shrimp.
Location: Carrer de la Boqueria, Barcelona, Spain.
El Pescador - Renowned seafood restaurant offering a flavorful garlic shrimp dish.
Location: Av. Revolución 231, Mexico City, Mexico.
Sea Shanty - Quaint coastal eatery celebrated for its fresh seafood and vibrant shrimp dishes.
Location: 123 Ocean Lane, Santa Monica, USA.
Oceanaire Seafood Room - Exemplary for elegant seafood and their spicy garlic shrimp option.
Location: 5061 Westheimer Rd, Houston, USA.
Salmón Gurú - Gourmet seafood bar with a decadent garlic shrimp tapas.
Location: Calle de Echegaray, Madrid, Spain.
The Salted Vine - Offers an eclectic menu with a standout garlic shrimp.
Location: 37991 2nd Ave, Squamish, Canada.
Barrafina - Michelin-starred establishment with a menu featuring exquisite shrimp dishes.
Location: Dean St, Soho, London, UK.
Osteria Francescana - Famed for an inventive twist on traditional Italian and seafood delights.
Location: Via Stella, Modena, Italy.
Hof Van Cleve - Belgian restaurant known for its culinary artistry including shrimp options.
Location: Riemegemstraat 1, Kruisem, Belgium.
Gaggan - Innovative Asian fusion eatery spotlighting unique seafood creations.
Location: 68/1 Soi Langsuan, Bangkok, Thailand.