If you're craving a tasty seafood delight, you've gotta try some prawn recipes! Start with classic garlic prawns, swimming in buttery goodness, or whip up a zesty prawn stir-fry that's ready in just 15 minutes. Get cozy with a creamy prawn pasta or savor the warm spices of a prawn curry. How about some quick prawn tacos for a fun twist? And don't forget a classy prawn cocktail for fancy occasions! Each recipe is easy and packed with flavor, making your dinner time a blast. Stick around, and you'll discover even more prawn-tastic ideas!
Main Points
- Explore various garlic-based prawn dishes like Garlic Prawns and Creamy Garlic Prawns for rich flavors and quick preparation.
- Try a vibrant prawn stir-fry with fresh vegetables and customizable sauces for a nutritious weeknight meal.
- Indulge in prawn curries or sauces, such as Prawn Curry and Prawn Pasta, offering rich flavors and easy cooking.
- Enjoy quick and light options like Prawn Tacos and Prawn Salad, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
- Remember to pat prawns dry before cooking to avoid steaming and maintain optimal texture.
Garlic Prawns
Garlic prawns are a delightful dish that presents a perfect balance of flavor and simplicity. The combination of succulent prawns and a rich garlic butter sauce creates an irresistible culinary experience. This dish isn't only quick to prepare but can also be enjoyed as a sophisticated appetizer or a hearty main course, especially when paired with crusty bread or a revitalizing salad. The key to achieving the best results lies in using fresh or high-quality frozen prawns, guaranteeing they're properly marinated and cooked to perfection.
To improve the flavor profile of garlic prawns, a marinade of olive oil and pepper is typically applied prior to cooking. This step allows the prawns to absorb essential flavors, making each bite a delightful experience. The cooking process is brief, focusing on searing the prawns to maintain their tenderness and juiciness. With the addition of garlic, dry white wine, butter, and lemon juice, this dish becomes a gourmet treat that's sure to impress family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 500g fresh or high-quality frozen prawns, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread (for serving)
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season the prawns with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan in a single layer. Sear for about 45 seconds on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
Add the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in the dry white wine, allowing it to simmer for a minute. Add the butter and lemon juice, stirring well to combine and create a rich sauce. Once the prawns are cooked through, remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving with crusty bread.
To achieve the best texture and flavor, verify that the prawns are thoroughly dried before cooking. This step helps to achieve a nice sear without excess moisture. Additionally, avoid overcooking the prawns, as they can quickly turn rubbery and tough. Keep an eye on the color change, and remember that prawns cook very quickly.
Creamy Garlic Prawns
Creamy Garlic Prawns is a delightful dish that combines the richness of butter and cream with the aromatic flavors of garlic and white wine, creating a luxurious experience for seafood enthusiasts. This dish isn't only indulgent but also relatively simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both special occasions and weeknight dinners.
The key to the success of this dish lies in the quality of the prawns and the careful cooking process, allowing you to achieve perfectly tender and flavorful seafood that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
To start, verify you have fresh, good quality prawns, as their flavor is the star of the dish. Marinating the prawns for about 20 minutes with some garlic and a splash of white wine will boost their taste, while searing them in batches will help maintain their juicy texture.
Once combined with the creamy sauce and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, you'll have a dish that's both comforting and impressive, perfect for serving to family or guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg good quality prawns, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
To prepare the Creamy Garlic Prawns, begin by marinating the prawns in a mixture of minced garlic, white wine, salt, and pepper for 20 minutes.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the marinated prawns in batches, searing them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the prawns from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add more garlic if desired, followed by the white wine, scraping up any browned bits. Allow the wine to reduce slightly, then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Return the prawns to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the creamy sauce, and heat through before serving.
When cooking Creamy Garlic Prawns, it's essential to avoid overcooking the prawns, as they can become rubbery. Searing them in batches guarantees they cook evenly and maintain their tender texture.
Additionally, for a touch of brightness, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving, which will amplify the flavors of the dish.
Grilled Garlic Butter Prawns
Grilled garlic butter prawns are a delectable dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and butter with the natural sweetness of prawns. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an impressive dish for entertaining guests. The marination process improves the prawns' flavor, while grilling them guarantees they remain succulent and juicy. Pairing them with crusty bread or rice allows you to enjoy every bit of the delicious sauce, making this a meal that's both satisfying and delightful.
To achieve the best results, it's important to use fresh prawns and a very hot grill. This cooking method not only adds a beautiful char to the prawns but also locks in the flavors of the marinade. The quick cooking time assures that the prawns don't become rubbery, making it essential to keep an eye on them. With a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can enjoy a dish that's bursting with flavor and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large prawns, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread or rice (for serving)
Cooking Instructions:
In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the marinade. Add the prawns and toss to coat them evenly. Let the prawns marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
Preheat your grill to high heat and place the marinated prawns on the grill. Cook for approximately 5-6 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they're firm and opaque. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the prawns with the melted garlic butter for added flavor.
Once cooked, remove them from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Extra Tips:
To guarantee your prawns remain juicy, don't overcook them; they should turn opaque and firm when done. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Additionally, soaking wooden skewers in water before threading the prawns can prevent them from burning on the grill. Finally, serving the prawns with a revitalizing salad will complement their rich flavor beautifully and provide a balanced meal. Enjoy your grilled garlic butter prawns!
Prawn Stir-Fry
Prawn stir-fry is a delightful and speedy meal that can easily become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, it's not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritional powerhouse, thanks to the variety of vegetables that can be included. This dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy a satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. In just 10 to 15 minutes, you can whip up a delicious prawn stir-fry that will leave your family asking for seconds.
The key to a successful prawn stir-fry lies in the high heat cooking method, which guarantees that the prawns are seared to perfection, locking in moisture and flavor. By incorporating a mix of colorful vegetables, you can enhance the dish while providing essential vitamins and minerals. Feel free to customize your stir-fry with your favorite sauces and spices to create a meal that caters to your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
- 300g prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Fresh herbs (cilantro or basil) for garnish
- Chili flakes (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, add the prawns to the pan and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Add the bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli, and continue to stir-fry for another 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and lime juice, tossing everything together to coat evenly. Once everything is well combined, remove from heat and garnish with fresh herbs and chili flakes if desired.
Extra Tips:
To guarantee the prawns cook perfectly, make sure they're patted dry before adding them to the hot oil, as excess moisture can lead to steaming rather than searing.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables or even switch out the prawns for other proteins like chicken or tofu. Prepare all your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process, as stir-frying is a quick method that requires your full attention once you begin.
Prawn Curry
Prawn curry is a delightful and aromatic dish that brings together the natural sweetness of prawns with a medley of spices and flavors. This dish is popular in various cuisines, including Indian, Thai, and Goan, each with their distinct twist on the classic recipe.
The combination of coconut milk, tomatoes, and spices creates a rich, creamy sauce that complements the prawns perfectly, making it a beloved choice for seafood enthusiasts.
One of the best aspects of prawn curry is its quick cooking time, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights. In just 5-10 minutes, you can have a delicious and satisfying dish on the table.
Traditionally served with rice or naan, the starchy sides help to soak up the flavorful sauce, improving the overall experience. Whether you're looking for a cozy family dinner or a dish to impress guests, prawn curry is sure to please.
Ingredients:
- 500g prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin powder
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
- Cooked rice or naan, for serving
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they're translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Next, add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
Sprinkle in the turmeric, cumin, and coriander powders, stirring to combine. Pour in the coconut milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Finally, add the prawns and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Season with salt to taste, then remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
When preparing prawn curry, it's essential to avoid overcooking the prawns, as they can become tough and rubbery.
If you're using frozen prawns, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can also experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to improve the nutritional value of the dish.
Adjust the spice levels by adding more or less of the spices according to your taste preferences, and consider serving with a squeeze of lime for an extra zing!
Prawn Pasta
Prawn pasta is a delightful dish that combines the fresh, briny flavor of prawns with the comforting texture of pasta, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. This versatile meal can be customized with a variety of sauces and ingredients, allowing you to create a dish that suits your taste preferences.
Whether you're looking for a spicy kick or a creamy indulgence, prawn pasta can be modified to meet your culinary desires. One of the most beloved variations is Chilli Prawn Linguine, which is both quick and simple to prepare. With a cooking time of under 20 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
The combination of garlic, lemon juice, and fresh parsley raises the prawns and pasta, creating a vibrant and flavorful meal that's sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
- 200g linguine or spaghetti
- 300g raw prawns, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red chili, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by cooking the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and chopped red chili, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the prawns to the skillet and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn pink and opaque.
Once the pasta is ready, drain it and add it to the skillet with the prawns, along with the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Extra Tips:
To improve the flavor of your prawn pasta, consider adding a splash of white wine to the skillet after cooking the prawns, allowing it to reduce slightly before adding the pasta.
You can also swap out the red chili for a milder pepper if you prefer less heat or add a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick. For a more substantial meal, feel free to toss in some sautéed vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers.
Always remember to avoid overcooking the prawns, as they can become tough; they should only take a few minutes to cook through.
Garlic and Cumin Butter Prawns
Garlic and Cumin Butter Prawns is a delightful dish that brings together the rich, aromatic flavors of garlic and the warm, earthy notes of cumin, creating a perfect balance that improves the natural sweetness of prawns. This recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve at your next gathering.
The combination of butter and olive oil not only helps to sauté the prawns to perfection but also infuses the dish with a deep, savory flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
To achieve the best results, it's crucial to use either fresh or high-quality frozen prawns, as this will guarantee a juicy and tender texture when cooked. The cooking process is straightforward, requiring just a few minutes of high-heat sautéing, which locks in the moisture and flavor of the prawns.
Serve this dish immediately to enjoy the vibrant taste of the garlic-cumin butter sauce, paired beautifully with crusty bread or served over a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
- 500g fresh or high-quality frozen prawns, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread or rice (for serving)
Cooking Instructions:
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat until melted and bubbling.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Next, add the prawns to the skillet, sprinkling the cumin, salt, and pepper over them.
Cook the prawns for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, make sure to use freshly minced garlic rather than pre-minced, as it provides a more robust and aromatic taste.
If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the cumin. Additionally, be mindful of the cooking time; prawns cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
Prawn Tacos
Prawn tacos are a delightful and quick dish that brings a taste of the coast to your dinner table. With the vibrant flavors of seasoned prawns combined with fresh toppings, these tacos are sure to impress your family or guests, all in under 10 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, they allow for creativity and customization, ensuring everyone gets their perfect bite.
To prepare prawn tacos, start by selecting fresh prawns and seasoning them with a blend of spices. Popular choices include paprika for smokiness, cumin for warmth, and chili powder for a bit of heat. Once your prawns are seasoned, you can either sauté them in a skillet or grill them for a delicious char.
The choice of tortillas—corn or flour—adds to the authenticity of the dish, while a range of toppings like creamy avocado, zesty lime juice, and crunchy slaw enrich the entire flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Corn or flour tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- 1 cup tangy slaw (cabbage, carrots, and dressing of choice)
Cooking Instructions:
In a bowl, season the prawns with paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring they're evenly coated.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned prawns and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave until pliable. Assemble the tacos by placing a few prawns on each tortilla, then top with avocado slices, a sprinkle of cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and a generous scoop of tangy slaw.
Extra Tips:
For an extra kick, consider adding a drizzle of spicy mayo or avocado crema on top of your tacos.
If you want to experiment with flavors, try marinating the prawns for 30 minutes before cooking or adding other toppings like diced tomatoes or pickled onions.
Additionally, for a more filling meal, serve the tacos with a side of rice or beans. Enjoy your delicious prawn tacos!
Prawn Salad
Prawn salads are a delightful and nutritious option for any meal, whether served chilled on a hot summer day or warm during cooler months. Their versatility allows for a myriad of flavor combinations, making them suitable for a casual lunch or an elegant dinner party.
The combination of succulent prawns with fresh, vibrant ingredients creates a dish that isn't only visually appealing but also packed with protein and essential nutrients.
To make the most of your prawn salad, consider incorporating seasonal produce such as creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, and a mix of greens for added texture. A simple dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs can uplift the dish while keeping it light and invigorating.
For an extra twist, adding fruits like mango or citrus can bring a delightful sweetness that perfectly balances the savory notes of the prawns.
Ingredients:
- 500g cooked prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 2 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 mango, diced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh herbs (such as cilantro or parsley), chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked prawns, avocado, cucumber, mixed greens, and mango if using.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper to create a dressing.
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated. Serve immediately for a fresh and satisfying meal, or refrigerate for a short time if you prefer it chilled.
For a successful prawn salad, choose the freshest ingredients you can find, as this will greatly improve the flavor of the dish.
If you're using frozen prawns, make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the salad to avoid excess moisture.
Feel free to experiment with additional toppings like cherry tomatoes, radishes, or nuts for added crunch and flavor. Enjoy your prawn salad as a healthy meal option or a delicious side dish!
Prawn Cocktail
Prawn cocktail is a timeless dish that brings a touch of elegance to any dining occasion. Perfectly cooked prawns are the star of the show, served chilled with a zesty cocktail sauce that perfectly complements their natural sweetness. This dish isn't only a delightful appetizer but also a great way to showcase fresh seafood, making it a popular choice for parties, holidays, and special celebrations.
To prepare a classic prawn cocktail, it's essential to select high-quality, fresh prawns. Cooking them to perfection guarantees a tender and flavorful result. The cocktail sauce, with its bright flavors, can be adjusted to suit your personal taste, while garnishing with fresh lemon and crisp lettuce adds a revitalizing touch to the presentation. This dish isn't only visually appealing but also low in calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 500g cooked prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons horseradish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh lemon wedges, for garnish
- Crisp lettuce leaves, for serving
- Optional: diced avocado, cucumber, or fresh herbs
To prepare the prawn cocktail, start by combining the ketchup, horseradish sauce, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Mix well to create your cocktail sauce.
In a serving dish or individual glasses, layer the crisp lettuce leaves as a base. Next, arrange the cooked prawns neatly on top of the lettuce. Drizzle the cocktail sauce generously over the prawns, guaranteeing they're well-coated. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges on the side and any additional ingredients like diced avocado or cucumber, if desired, to elevate the flavor.
When preparing prawn cocktail, freshness is key, so always opt for the best quality prawns available. If using frozen prawns, verify they're completely thawed and drained well before serving.
For a fun twist, experiment with different herbs or spices in the cocktail sauce to give it a unique flavor. Additionally, for a creamier version, you can add a dollop of mayonnaise to the cocktail sauce mix, creating a delightful contrast to the tangy flavors.
Enjoy your elegant prawn cocktail as a revitalizing starter that's sure to impress your guests!