Portuguese Garlic Shrimp

The bold and rustic flavors of Portuguese cuisine come alive in this simple yet irresistible dish. Portuguese Garlic Shrimp, or Camarão à Guilho, is the perfect harmony of juicy shrimp bathed in a golden, garlicky olive oil sauce, spiked with white wine, lemon juice, and a hint of red pepper heat. It’s a celebration of minimal ingredients producing maximum flavor. This dish is commonly found as a staple in Portuguese homes and restaurants, often served as a petisco (small plate or tapas). Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or main course, it’s guaranteed to impress. With its vibrant flavors and quick prep time, it’s the perfect go-to for a weeknight treat or a casual dinner party. Pair it with fresh bread and a chilled white wine, and you’ll feel transported to the Portuguese coast in just one bite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

• 1/3 cup olive oil

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• 1/3 cup dry white wine

• Juice of half a lemon

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Crusty bread, for serving

Directions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.

2. Once hot, add the garlic and cook until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.

3. Add the red pepper flakes and stir to combine.

4. Raise the heat slightly, then add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

5. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately with crusty bread to soak up the garlic sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 265 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Portuguese Garlic Shrimp (Camarão à Guilho): A Bold Taste of Coastal Portugal

Portuguese Garlic Shrimp, or Camarão à Guilho, is a dish that exemplifies the vibrant, hearty, and coastal flavors of Portugal. It is not only immensely flavorful but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it an ideal recipe for both novice home cooks and seasoned chefs alike. With just a few fresh ingredients shrimp, garlic, olive oil, white wine, lemon juice, and parsley this dish bursts with intense Mediterranean character, balancing heat, tang, and savory depth in every bite.

Unlike overly complicated seafood dishes, Portuguese Garlic Shrimp leans on quality and simplicity. The star of the show is undoubtedly the shrimp, which is bathed in a rich, garlicky oil sauce. When prepared well, this dish doesn’t require sides or sauces to impress it’s a stand-alone favorite that quickly finds its place in any seafood lover’s culinary rotation.

The Heart of Portuguese Coastal Cuisine

Portugal is a nation with deep maritime roots. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, its cuisine is heavily influenced by the sea, and shrimp dishes are both common and cherished. Among these, Camarão à Guilho holds a special place. It is found everywhere from humble taverns to high-end restaurants and is often served as a petisco, or small appetizer plate, akin to Spanish tapas. However, due to its bold flavors and satisfying richness, it also easily transforms into a main course when served with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or pasta.

Garlic and olive oil are central to Portuguese cuisine, and in this dish, they are used generously. The garlic is usually sliced thin and gently sautéed to infuse the oil with flavor. The olive oil not only acts as a cooking medium but also becomes a luscious sauce that’s perfect for mopping up with bread. Add in a splash of white wine and a dash of lemon, and you have a sauce that’s aromatic, slightly acidic, and brimming with warmth.

A Quick and Elegant Meal

One of the most appealing aspects of Portuguese Garlic Shrimp is how quickly and effortlessly it can be prepared. From start to finish, the recipe takes no more than 20 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a last-minute dinner or spontaneous gathering. Despite its simplicity, the end result is undeniably gourmet. The shrimp are plump and juicy, the garlic is golden and aromatic, and the sauce is complex and satisfying.

Its speed doesn’t compromise quality if anything, it enhances it. This is a dish that celebrates the beauty of fresh ingredients. When paired with a chilled white wine, such as a Vinho Verde or Sauvignon Blanc, the meal feels complete and elegant, suitable for anything from a romantic dinner to a summer evening with friends.

Choosing the Right Shrimp

To make the best Portuguese Garlic Shrimp, ingredient quality is crucial, especially when it comes to the shrimp. Large, wild-caught shrimp with shells on are ideal, as they tend to retain more flavor and texture during cooking. However, for convenience, peeled and deveined shrimp work well too.

Some recipes call for leaving the tails on for presentation and added flavor. The tails can lend a slightly richer, more savory note to the dish, though many prefer to remove them for easier eating. Whether you use fresh or frozen shrimp, the key is not to overcook them. Perfectly cooked shrimp should be opaque, pink, and slightly firm, not rubbery.

Flavor Profile and Pairings

The dominant flavor of this dish is, of course, garlic. Portuguese cuisine doesn’t shy away from this bold ingredient, and this recipe is no exception. However, the garlic isn’t overpowering due to the mellow richness of olive oil and the balancing brightness of lemon juice and white wine.

The red pepper flakes bring a subtle, lingering heat, though they can be adjusted to suit your spice preference. Fresh parsley adds an herbaceous note that finishes the dish with a hint of green freshness.

To complete the meal, many enjoy serving the shrimp with rustic crusty bread to soak up the sauce. It also pairs wonderfully with a side of rice pilaf, herbed couscous, or even thin spaghetti tossed in olive oil. For drinks, white wines that are crisp and slightly fruity complement the garlic and seafood without overwhelming the palate.

Cultural Context and Variations

Portuguese Garlic Shrimp has its roots in the Iberian Peninsula, where garlic is a foundational element in both Spanish and Portuguese cooking. It is believed to have originated in the southern regions of Portugal, particularly in the Algarve, which is known for its seafood-rich traditions.

Over time, this dish has spread far beyond Portuguese borders. Variations now exist throughout Europe and in many parts of the Americas. Some versions add smoked paprika, tomatoes, or even butter for a richer, more robust sauce. Others experiment with garnishes like chives, cilantro, or toasted breadcrumbs.

Regardless of the variation, the soul of the dish remains the same: shrimp, garlic, and olive oil, united in flavorful harmony.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish

Even with its straightforward preparation, a few tips can elevate this dish to restaurant-quality levels:

1. Use high-quality olive oil – Since olive oil forms the base of the sauce, use an extra virgin olive oil that’s fruity and fresh.

2. Do not overcook the garlic – Garlic should be golden and fragrant, not brown and bitter. Keep a close eye on it while sautéing.

3. Deglaze with wine – The wine lifts all the rich garlic bits off the bottom of the pan and adds complexity.

4. Taste as you go – With such few ingredients, seasoning becomes very important. Adjust salt, lemon, and pepper at the end to balance the flavors.

5. Serve immediately – Like most seafood dishes, this one is best enjoyed fresh off the stove.

A Dish That Invites Togetherness

Part of what makes Portuguese Garlic Shrimp so beloved is its social nature. Whether it’s being shared among friends as part of a tapas spread or served as a main course for two, it invites people to slow down and savor. The act of dipping bread into the garlicky oil, sharing stories over a bottle of wine, and enjoying food made with care these are the experiences that turn meals into memories.

It’s also a wonderful recipe for introducing others to Portuguese cuisine. Its familiar ingredients and easy preparation make it approachable, yet its bold flavors give it an exotic, vacation-like feel.

Conclusion:

Portuguese Garlic Shrimp is more than just a quick seafood recipe it’s a culinary snapshot of Portugal’s coastline, traditions, and love for bold, honest flavors. Its simplicity makes it accessible, but its richness makes it unforgettable. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, introduce yourself to Portuguese flavors, or simply whip up a fast and satisfying meal, this dish delivers every single time.

It teaches us that great cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few quality ingredients and a little love, you can create a dish that sings with character, culture, and comfort. Try it once, and you might just find it becoming a permanent part of your cooking repertoire.