Spanish Shrimp

Spanish Shrimp Recipe - Authentic and Flavorful Dish from Spain

Region / culture: Spain | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spanish Shrimp is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of garlic, cumin, and paprika gives the shrimp a bold and spicy flavor that is sure to impress your guests. This recipe is easy to make and can be cooked on the grill for a smoky and charred finish.

History

Spanish Shrimp is a traditional dish that originated in Spain, where seafood is a staple in the diet. The use of garlic, cumin, and paprika in this recipe reflects the influence of Spanish cuisine, which is known for its bold flavors and use of spices. This dish is popular in coastal regions of Spain, where fresh seafood is abundant.

Ingredients

0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tsp of shallots, minced
0.75 tsp of cumin
1 tsp of hot paprika
1.5 lb (680 g) of medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, with shells left intact
salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tbsp of fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tbsp of fresh italian parsley, chopped
1 tsp of fresh lemon juice

How to prepare

Preheat the grill to high heat.
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, shallots, cumin, paprika, about 0.5 tsp of kosher salt, and 0.25 tsp of freshly ground black pepper.
Add the shrimp and stir to coat the shrimp thoroughly.
Cover and refrigerate for approximately 30 minutes.
Using a small grill rack, grill the shrimp for about 1–2 minutes per side or until they turn pink and are just cooked through. (If you don't have a small grill rack, you can also thread the shrimp on skewers to prevent them from falling through the grill.)
Remove from the grill and garnish with cilantro and parsley.
Squeeze lemon juice over the top of the shrimp and serve.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
Substitute smoked paprika for a smoky twist on the traditional recipe.
Use different herbs such as basil or mint for a fresh and aromatic finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to devein the shrimp before cooking to remove any grit or sand.

- Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

- Use a small grill rack or skewers to prevent the shrimp from falling through the grill grates.

- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.

Serving Suggestions

Spanish Shrimp can be served as a main dish with a side of rice or crusty bread. It can also be served as an appetizer with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have shallots, you can use red onion or scallions instead.

- If you don't have cumin, you can use chili powder or curry powder for a different flavor profile.

- If you don't have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs, but reduce the amount by half.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the shrimp in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This allows the flavors to develop and makes for a quick and easy meal prep.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Spanish Shrimp on a platter with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a colorful and appetizing presentation. You can also garnish with a drizzle of olive oil for a glossy finish.

Pairing Recommendations

Spanish Shrimp pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Albariño or Sauvignon Blanc. It also goes well with a light and refreshing salad or grilled vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Spanish Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

220 per serving

Carbohydrates

2g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 14g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 24g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 6% of daily value

- Iron: 10% of daily value

Alergens

Shellfish

Summary

Spanish Shrimp is a high-protein dish that is low in carbohydrates and rich in healthy fats. It is a good source of vitamin C and iron, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Spanish Shrimp is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. With bold spices and fresh herbs, this dish is sure to impress your guests and become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the smoky and charred flavors of Spanish Shrimp with a glass of wine and good company.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I sifted through the yellowed cards and faded clippings, my eyes landed on a particularly intriguing recipe for Spanish Shrimp.

I had always loved shrimp, and the idea of combining it with the bold flavors of Spanish cuisine was too tempting to resist. I could almost taste the smoky paprika, the tangy tomatoes, and the fragrant garlic just from reading the ingredients list. I knew I had to try this recipe, no matter what it took.

I traced the origins of the recipe back to a dear friend of mine, Maria, who had spent many years living in Spain. She had a deep love for Spanish cuisine and had learned to cook many traditional dishes during her time there. Maria was a wonderful cook and had always been generous in sharing her recipes with me. I knew that this recipe for Spanish Shrimp must be a gem if it had come from her.

I called Maria immediately and asked her about the recipe. She laughed when I mentioned it, saying that it was one of her favorites and that she was happy to share it with me. We arranged to meet the next day so she could teach me how to make it.

When I arrived at Maria's house, she greeted me with a warm hug and a mischievous twinkle in her eye. She led me to her cozy kitchen, where the fragrant scent of spices filled the air. Maria laid out all the ingredients we would need – fresh shrimp, ripe tomatoes, smoked paprika, garlic, onions, and a few other secret ingredients that she promised would make the dish truly authentic.

As we cooked together, Maria shared stories of her time in Spain – the bustling markets filled with colorful produce, the late-night tapas bars where friends gathered to share small plates and laughter, and the warm Mediterranean sun that seemed to infuse everything with a golden glow. I listened intently, soaking up every word and savoring every moment.

The dish came together beautifully, the shrimp turning a vibrant shade of pink as they cooked in the rich tomato sauce. Maria sprinkled on a generous amount of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before declaring it ready to serve. We sat down at her kitchen table, the steam rising from our plates as we dug in.

The first bite was a revelation. The shrimp were tender and succulent, the sauce bursting with flavor – a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy. It was as if I could taste the sun-drenched shores of Spain in every mouthful. Maria grinned at me as I closed my eyes in delight, knowing that I had discovered a new favorite recipe.

As we finished our meal, Maria poured us each a glass of crisp white wine and raised her glass in a toast. "To good friends and good food," she said, her eyes sparkling with joy. I clinked my glass against hers, feeling grateful for the chance to learn from such a talented cook and cherished friend.

That day marked the beginning of a new chapter in my culinary journey. The recipe for Spanish Shrimp had not only introduced me to the vibrant flavors of Spanish cuisine but had also deepened my friendship with Maria. I would go on to make the dish many times, sharing it with friends and family who marveled at its complexity and simplicity.

Years passed, and Maria eventually moved back to Spain, leaving me with a treasure trove of recipes and memories. But whenever I make Spanish Shrimp, I can still hear her laughter and feel her presence in the kitchen. It is a dish that will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting connections.

And so, the story of how I learned to make Spanish Shrimp is one that I will cherish forever – a tale of friendship, flavor, and the magic of a shared meal.