Gambas Al Ajillo (Shrimp in Garlic)

Among the many ?tapas? or Spanish savory dishes typically served with drinks at a bar, ?gambas al ajillo? (shrimp in garlic) is one of the most common. It is very quick and easy to prepare and yet luscious and truly satisfying. The dish consists of shrimps that are sautéed quickly in olive oil that has been laced with lots of garlic and some red chilies. It is usually offered as an appetizer or served as a "tapa" in many restaurants in Spain. In the Philippines, probably because of the Spanish influence, the dish, simply called ?gambas?, is also a favorite and priced appetizer (?pulutan?) usually served with drinks be in a bar, roadside eateries, fancy restaurants or even at home.

The dish is not limited to being just an appetizer or cocktail food however. It also goes very well with rice or pasta along with green salad to make a full meal. It is also perfect to be eaten with plenty of crusty bread which when dip, will suck up all the delicious pan juices full of wonderful garlicky flavor. When served to visitors, be prepared to explain on how it is cooked as they will surely ask right after the first bite. The delectable taste is really difficult to ignore. Perhaps, there is really something magical in the combination of shrimp and garlic in food as what I also attained in my Shrimp Garlic Pizza which I recently posted.