Camarones al Mojo de Ajo
Plump, juicy shrimp are pan-seared and bathed in a luxurious, fragrant sauce of garlic, butter, olive oil, and a splash of lime. This classic Mexican dish, meaning 'Shrimp in Garlic Sauce,' is incredibly flavorful and comes together in under 20 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick and impressive weeknight dinner or a festive appetizer.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Shrimp
- b.If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed.
- c.Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step to ensure they sear rather than steam.
- d.Season the shrimp generously on all sides with 1 tsp of salt and 0.5 tsp of black pepper.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté the Aromatics
- b.In a large skillet or pan, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat.
- c.Once the butter is melted and foaming, add the finely minced garlic and red chili flakes.
- d.Cook, stirring constantly, for about 60-90 seconds until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be very careful not to let it brown or burn, as it will become bitter.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Shrimp
- b.Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the seasoned shrimp to the pan, arranging them in a single layer.
- c.Cook for 1-2 minutes per side without moving them, until they turn pink, opaque, and are lightly seared. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in two batches if necessary to ensure a good sear.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Create the Sauce and Finish
- b.If using, pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom.
- c.Allow the wine to bubble and reduce by about half, which should take about 1 minute.
- d.Remove the pan from the heat. Immediately stir in the fresh lime juice and the chopped cilantro.
- e.Toss everything together to ensure the shrimp are fully coated in the delicious garlic sauce.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Serve Immediately
- b.Transfer the shrimp and all the sauce to a serving platter.
- c.Garnish with a little extra fresh cilantro if desired.
- d.Serve hot with your choice of sides.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, high-quality, large shrimp (16-20 count per pound).
- 2Do not overcook the shrimp. They cook in just a few minutes. As soon as they curl into a 'C' shape and turn opaque, they are done.
- 3Fresh garlic and fresh lime juice are essential for this recipe. Avoid using pre-minced garlic from a jar or bottled lime juice.
- 4Use a large skillet to prevent overcrowding, which can cause the shrimp to steam instead of sear.
- 5The sauce is perfect for dipping. Serve with warm crusty bread, flour tortillas, or over white rice to soak up every last drop.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicier Version
Add a finely minced jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the garlic for an extra kick of heat.
Smoky FlavorSmoky Flavor
Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce along with the garlic for a smoky, deep flavor.
Creamy SauceCreamy Sauce
After removing the pan from the heat, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream or Mexican crema for a richer, creamier sauce.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
Sauté sliced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms in the pan before adding the garlic to make it a more complete one-pan meal.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Shrimp is packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle maintenance, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Rich in Selenium
Shrimp is one of the best dietary sources of selenium, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports thyroid function and a healthy immune system.
Heart-Healthy Compounds
Garlic and olive oil, key ingredients in the sauce, are known for their cardiovascular benefits. Garlic may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, while olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of this dish contains approximately 380-450 calories, primarily from the shrimp, butter, and olive oil. The final count can vary based on the exact amount of butter and oil used.