Gambas al Ajillo with Crispy Potatoes and Arugula
Every bite is bold, bright, and unapologetically garlicky, with sweet shrimp nestled in a silky olive oil sauce infused with smoked paprika and a splash of sherry vinegar. Crispy potatoes soak up every bit of that incredible sauce, while peppery arugula keeps the dish feeling fresh and balanced. It has all the cozy charm of a Spanish tapas bar, transformed into a satisfying dinner.
Servings: FOUR
INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound baby potatoes, halved
1/3 cup olive oil
10 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 cups baby arugula
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon, cut into wedges
PREPARATION
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and spread cut side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, turning once, until deeply golden and crisp.
Cook shrimp: Pat shrimp dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Heat remaining olive oil in a large stainless steel skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 45 to 60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden.
Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes per side, just until pink and nearly cooked through.
Finish sauce: Remove skillet from the heat. Stir in sherry vinegar and lemon juice, then return to low heat for 30 seconds. Fold in the parsley.
Plate: Divide the arugula among 4 plates, top with the hot roasted potatoes, then spoon the shrimp and all of the garlic sauce over the top so the arugula wilts slightly. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over.
Notes:
Roast the potatoes cut side down so they develop a deeply browned, crisp surface that holds up to the garlic-sherry sauce.
Cook the garlic just until lightly golden. If it browns too much, it can become bitter and overpower the delicate shrimp.
Have all of the ingredients ready before you start cooking the shrimp. Once the garlic goes into the pan, the recipe comes together in about 5 minutes.
