Spanish-style Garlic Shrimp with Ham

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== Description ==
Makes 4-8 appetizers 
== Ingredients ==
* 2 lbs large shrimp, shelled, leaving the tail and the first joint of the shell intact, and de-veined (about 28) 
* 1½ teaspoons salt 
* 8 cloves garlic, sliced thin lengthwise 
* ½ cup olive oil 
* ¼ lb thick-sliced cooked ham, chopped 
* ¼ teaspoon dried hot red pepper flakes 
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped 
* ¼ cup sherry wine 
* minced fresh fresh parsley leaves, if desired (to garnish) 
* crusty bread, as an accompaniment 
== Directions ==
# Rinse the shrimp and pat them dry. 
# Sprinkle the shrimp on both sides with the salt and let them stand between layers of paper towel for 10 minutes. 
# In a large heavy skillet cook the garlic in the oil over moderate heat, stirring, until it is golden and transfer it with a slotted spoon to a small bowl. 
# Add the ham and the red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook the mixture, stirring, for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the ham deepens in color. 
# Add the bell pepper and cook the mixture, stirring, until the bell pepper is softened. 
# Add the shrimp and sauté the mixture over moderately high heat, turning the shrimp, for 3 minutes. 
# Add the sherry and the garlic and simmer the mixture, stirring and turning the shrimp occasionally, until the shrimp are just cooked through. 
# Transfer the shrimp mixture to a heated serving dish, sprinkle it with the parsley, and serve it with the bread.
Category:Ham Recipes
Category:Seafood appetizer Recipes
Category:Shrimp Recipes
Category:Spanish Appetizers