Skip to content

Ajillo Mushrooms

Few tapas taste more Spanish than champiñones al ajillo (ajillo mushrooms), dripping with olive oil, garlic and dry Spanish Sherry. To make this tapa even more authentic, be sure to serve the mushrooms with plenty of fresh, crusty bread to mop up the delicious juices.

5.0 · 3 reviewsRecipe card by English_RoseEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 13, 2026
Ajillo Mushrooms

Total time

22 min

Servings

4

Calories

150.6

Category

Vegetable

Experience the bold, authentic flavors of Spain with this quick and easy Ajillo Mushrooms recipe. Featuring succulent mushrooms sautéed in a fragrant pool of golden garlic-infused olive oil, a splash of dry sherry, and a kick of red chili, this vegan-friendly tapas dish is perfect for effortless entertaining or a savory weeknight side.

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings

  • 1/4 olive oil
  • 8 mushrooms
  • 6 garlic cloves
  • 3 dry sherry
  • 2 lemon juice
  • 1/2 paprika
  • 1/4 parsley

Method

  1. Heat the oil in a skillet and sauté the mushrooms over high heat for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

  2. Lower the heat to medium and add the garlic, sherry, lemon juice, dried chile, paprika, and salt and pepper.

  3. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the garlic and mushrooms have softened.

  4. Remove from the heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve on small earthenware platters.

Cook's notes

  • Use a mix of mushrooms like Cremini, Shiitake, and Oyster for a deeper, more complex umami flavor profile.
  • Don't crowd the pan; searing the mushrooms in batches ensures they turn golden-brown rather than steaming.
  • Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil, as it forms the base of the delicious sauce you'll want to mop up with crusty bread.

Easy swaps

  • If you don't have dry sherry, a splash of dry white wine or even a teaspoon of sherry vinegar provides a similar acidity.
  • For a gluten-free option, ensure your crusty bread served on the side is certified gluten-free.
  • Omit the red chili flakes if you prefer a milder dish, or replace with smoked paprika for a deeper, earthy spice.

Frequently asked

Are Ajillo Mushrooms vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it relies on olive oil, garlic, and herbs for its rich, savory flavor.

What should I serve with Spanish garlic mushrooms?

These mushrooms are traditionally served as a tapas dish with crusty sourdough or baguette to soak up the garlic oil. They also pair wonderfully with roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients beforehand. The flavors actually meld together well if reheated, making it a great dish for quick meal prep.

You might also like

More Vegetable →