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Start by making the garlic butter mixture. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with the minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, and optional lemon zest. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well incorporated. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
If you like extra flavor, you can also add a small pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter for a subtle kick. Once the garlic butter is ready, set it aside.
2. Prepare the Gambas:
If your gambas aren’t already peeled and deveined, do so before grilling. Leave the tails on for presentation, as this makes them easier to handle and looks more appealing on the plate.
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring they cook properly on the grill. Season the shrimp lightly with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Grill the Gambas:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates or grill pan with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Place the gambas on the grill in a single layer. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough if grilled for too long. You want the shrimp to be perfectly tender with a slight char.
4. Baste with Garlic Butter:
As soon as the shrimp are cooked, transfer them to a serving platter and immediately spoon the garlic butter mixture over the top of the gambas. The warm shrimp will melt the butter, infusing them with the delicious flavors of garlic and parsley.
If desired, you can also place the shrimp back on the grill for a few seconds after basting to slightly caramelize the garlic butter. However, this step is optional. Just be sure not to leave them on the grill too long to prevent burning the butter.
5. Serve:
Garnish the grilled gambas with extra chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus. These shrimp are perfect on their own, or you can serve them with a light side dish such as a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
Tips for the Perfect Gambas Grillées au Beurre d’Ail et Persil:
- Use Fresh Gambas: The fresher the shrimp, the better the flavor. If possible, buy your gambas from a trusted fishmonger or market that sells fresh, high-quality seafood.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Gambas are best when they’re tender and juicy. Overcooking them will result in rubbery, dry shrimp, so keep an eye on them while grilling and remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Garlic Butter Variations: Feel free to play around with the garlic butter. You can add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, a splash of white wine, or even a dash of smoked paprika for an added layer of flavor.
- Grill Pan Option: If you don’t have access to a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop to achieve the same effect. Simply heat the grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp as directed.
- Make It a Meal: To make this dish a complete meal, serve it with a side of rice, couscous, or roasted potatoes to absorb the delicious garlic butter sauce. Alternatively, toss the shrimp into a pasta for a flavorful seafood pasta dish.
Final Thoughts: A French Coastal Delight
Gambas Grillées au Beurre d’Ail et Persil is the kind of dish that feels luxurious without being complicated. The rich garlic butter, the fresh parsley, and the smoky charred shrimp combine in perfect harmony, creating a dish that feels both simple and sophisticated. Whether you’re grilling outside on a warm summer day or cooking up a delicious dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings for bold, vibrant flavors.
So, grab some gambas, fire up the grill, and indulge in this delightful French-inspired seafood treat. Bon appétit!
