Garlic shrimp (or prawns) is a classic dish that bursts with bold flavors and is incredibly easy to prepare. With a combination of juicy shrimp, aromatic garlic, and a touch of paprika, this dish can be served as an appetizer or a light main course. The addition of fresh parsley adds a vibrant finish, making it both delicious and visually appealing.
Ingredients:
- 500g raw shrimp or prawns (peeled and deveined)
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
- If your shrimp or prawns are not already peeled and deveined, start by removing the shells and deveining them.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear when cooking.
2. Prepare the Garlic Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, paprika, and a teaspoon of cornstarch.
- The cornstarch will help thicken the sauce slightly, giving it a more luxurious texture. Set this aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
- Warm a tablespoon of olive oil in a spacious skillet set over medium heat.
- Add the bay leaf to the oil to release its fragrance.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
4. Make the Garlic Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the garlic and paprika mixture. Sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning the garlic.
- If using cornstarch, add a small splash of water (about 1-2 tablespoons) to the pan to help thicken the sauce.
- Stir the mixture and let it simmer for another minute until the garlic is fragrant and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine and Garnish:
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the garlic sauce, ensuring they are well coated.
- Remove the bay leaf, then sprinkle the chopped parsley over the shrimp for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Serve the garlic shrimp immediately, garnished with lemon wedges for a tangy finish if desired.
Conclusion:
This garlic shrimp dish is a perfect blend of simplicity and bold flavors. The tender shrimp, infused with garlic and paprika, create a rich and savory dish that can be enjoyed on its own, with crusty bread, or over a bed of rice or pasta. With its minimal ingredients and quick preparation time, this recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight meal or as a show-stopping appetizer. Enjoy the delicious flavors and impress your guests with this easy-to-make garlic shrimp recipe!