Welcome to the vibrant world of Costa Rican cuisine, where the flavors of fresh seafood, aromatic herbs, and zesty spices come together in a symphony of taste. One dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Costa Rican coastal dining is Camarones al Ajillo, or Garlic Shrimp. This beloved dish features succulent shrimp cooked in a savory garlic-infused sauce, enriched with hints of tangy lime and a kick of chili heat.

In this recipe, we'll guide you through the steps to recreate this quintessential Costa Rican delight in your own kitchen. Whether you're longing for a taste of the tropics or looking to impress your guests with an authentic Central American dish, Camarones al Ajillo promises to satisfy your cravings and transport your senses to the sun-kissed shores of Costa Rica. So, let's dive into this culinary adventure and discover the irresistible flavors of Costa Rican Camarones al Ajillo!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
• 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 lime, juiced
• Cooked white rice or crusty bread for serving

Instructions:

1- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

2- Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and black pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

3- Pour in the white wine and lime juice, and simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly reduces and thickens.

4- Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the shrimp and toss to combine, ensuring the shrimp are evenly coated with the garlic-infused oil.

5- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more red pepper flakes at this point.

6- Remove the skillet from heat and serve the Camarones al Ajillo immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

7- Serve the shrimp hot with cooked white rice or crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious garlic sauce.

8- Enjoy your authentic Costa Rican Camarones al Ajillo as a flavorful and satisfying meal that transports you to the sunny beaches of Costa Rica!

Nutritional Values:

Here's an approximate breakdown of the nutritional values for the listed ingredients:

1 lb (450g) large shrimp:

• Calories: 567
• Protein: 113g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Cholesterol: 1267mg
• Sodium: 2304mg

benefits:

• Excellent source of high-quality protein.
• Low in fat and carbohydrates.
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health.
• Good source of vitamins and minerals, including selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine.

6 cloves garlic, minced:

• Calories: 27
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Contains compounds with potent medicinal properties, including allicin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
• May help lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.
• Supports immune function and may reduce the risk of common illnesses like the common cold.

1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil:

• Calories: 477
• Fat: 54g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 39g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 0mg
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:

• Rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
• Contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
• May lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and stroke.
• Supports brain health and cognitive function.

1/4 cup (60ml) white wine:

• Calories: 48
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants like resveratrol, which may have heart-healthy benefits.
• Moderate consumption may reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Can enhance the flavor of dishes without adding significant calories or fat.

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped:

• Calories: 2
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:

• Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants like flavonoids and carotenoids.
• Supports bone health and may reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
• Has antibacterial properties and may aid digestion.

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes:

• Calories: 6
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Contains capsaicin, which can boost metabolism and aid in weight loss.
• Has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce pain.
• Supports cardiovascular health and may lower cholesterol levels.

1 lime, juiced:

• Calories: 8
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Sugars: 1g

benefits:

• Excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and collagen production.
• Contains antioxidants that protect against cell damage and reduce inflammation.
• May improve digestion and promote healthy skin.

Cooked white rice (1 cup cooked):

• Calories: 205
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Good source of energy-providing carbohydrates.
• Low in fat and cholesterol.
• Contains small amounts of protein and essential nutrients like manganese and selenium.

Crusty bread (1 slice):

• Calories: 79
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Provides energy from carbohydrates.
• Contains fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes satiety.
• Can be a good source of vitamins and minerals, depending on the type of bread.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as brand, preparation methods, and specific ingredients used.