Imagine transporting your taste buds to a vibrant Spanish tapas bar with just one skillet and a handful of fresh ingredients. This mouthwatering Garlic Chile Asparagus and Shrimp recipe is your ticket to a culinary adventure that combines the bold flavors of Spain with the simplicity of home cooking. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a dish so tantalizing, it'll make your dinner guests wonder if you've secretly trained in a Barcelona kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 red chiles, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing the asparagus and trimming off the tough woody ends. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or paella pan over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering but not smoking.
- Add minced garlic and sliced red chiles to the hot oil, sautéing quickly for about 30 seconds to release their aromatic flavors without burning.
- Add asparagus to the pan, spreading them in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even charring and maintaining a crisp-tender texture.
- Season the asparagus with salt and pepper, then push them to one side of the pan.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the empty side of the pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and become opaque.
- Gently toss the shrimp and asparagus together in the pan, allowing the flavors to meld for an additional minute.
- Transfer the garlic chile asparagus and shrimp to a serving platter, drizzling any remaining pan juices over the top.
- Serve immediately while hot, preferably with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful oils.
Tips
- Dry your shrimp thoroughly before cooking to achieve that perfect golden sear and prevent steaming.
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for authentic Spanish flavor and better caramelization.
- Don't overcrowd the pan - this ensures proper charring and prevents the ingredients from becoming soggy.
- Choose fresh, thin asparagus spears for the best texture and fastest cooking time.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the optimal temperature and texture of the shrimp and asparagus.
- Pair with a crisp Spanish albariño wine or a cold beer for an authentic tapas experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 207kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 120mg
