Welcome to this flavor-packed shrimp recipe that brings together the bold taste of elephant garlic and the smoky richness of pimentón (Spanish paprika). Each bite delivers perfectly tender shrimp coated in aromatic garlic oil—ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests.
Serve it with warm, crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that fragrant, golden oil. Simple, fast, and absolutely irresistible!
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 50 g elephant garlic, roughly chopped (about 1.75 oz)
- 1 teaspoon pimentón (smoked or sweet paprika)
- 450 g shrimp, peeled and deveined (1 pound)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon minced parsley, for garnish
Video instructions available below
Directions
- Preheat the Oven
Position your oven rack in the middle and preheat to 400°F (200°C). - Infuse the Oil
In a cast iron skillet, add the olive oil and elephant garlic. Heat over medium-high until the garlic begins to turn golden around the edges—be careful not to burn it. - Add Flavor
Stir in the pimentón, blending it into the garlic oil for a deep, smoky aroma. - Cook the Shrimp
Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Season generously with salt and pepper. Transfer the pan to the oven and cook for 2–3 minutes, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque throughout. - Finish & Serve
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with minced parsley, and toss gently to coat the shrimp in the flavorful oil.
Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping.
Variations
- 🌶️ Spicy Garlic Shrimp – Add red pepper flakes or chopped chili for extra heat.
- 🌿 Herbed Shrimp – Mix in thyme or oregano for added fragrance and depth.
- 🍋 Citrus Shrimp – Squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving for a bright, zesty finish.
- 🥛 Creamy Garlic Shrimp – Stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of sour cream after cooking for a luxurious sauce.
- 🍜 Asian-Inspired Shrimp – Swap olive oil for sesame oil, and add soy sauce, ginger, and green onions for a fusion twist.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp
- Use Fresh Shrimp – Fresh shrimp have the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw completely before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook – Shrimp cook fast! Once pink and opaque, remove them immediately to keep them juicy.
- Season Well – A good sprinkle of salt and pepper brings out the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
- Preheat the Pan – Starting with a hot skillet ensures a quick sear and better flavor.
- Serve Hot – These shrimp taste best fresh from the oven, while the oil is still sizzling and aromatic.
Storage & Reheating
- Cool Down – Let shrimp cool to room temperature.
- Store Properly – Transfer to an airtight container, pouring any leftover garlic oil over the top.
- Refrigerate – Store in the fridge for up to 2–3 days.
- Reheat Gently – Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave briefly until heated through.
Pro Tip: Leftover garlic oil is delicious drizzled over pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables!
Conclusion
This Elephant Garlic & Pimentón Shrimp recipe delivers restaurant-worthy flavor in under 20 minutes. The combination of smoky paprika, golden garlic, and tender shrimp creates a simple yet sophisticated dish that’s sure to impress.
Serve it as an appetizer with bread or as a main course with rice or salad — either way, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite.
Enjoy the burst of flavor in every bite! 🦐✨
