Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m excited to share one of my all-time favorite recipes with you: Garlic Prawns. This dish is a wonderful blend of simplicity and mouth-watering flavor, making it a staple in my home. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is incredibly easy to follow and yields fantastic results every time. The combination of fresh prawns and aromatic garlic sautéed in olive oil is truly irresistible. It’s no wonder garlic prawns are celebrated in various cuisines around the world, from Mediterranean to Asian fare. Trust me, once you try this, it’s bound to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Prawns Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this garlic prawns recipe. First off, it’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table in a flash. In just under 20 minutes, you can have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal ready to impress your family or guests.
This dish is also incredibly versatile, making it ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. The flavors are rich and satisfying, yet it remains a healthy and nutritious option. Prawns are packed with protein, low in fat, and offer a good dose of vitamins and minerals, making this a well-rounded meal that you can feel good about serving.
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Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delightful garlic prawns dish. Make sure to gather all your ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Main Ingredients
- Fresh prawns: 1 pound (peeled and deveined)
- Garlic: 4 cloves (finely chopped)
- Olive oil: 4 tablespoons
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons (chopped)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (freshly ground)
- Red pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional for a bit of heat)
Optional Ingredients for Variations
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (for a richer taste)
- Cherry tomatoes: 1/2 cup (halved, for a burst of color and flavor)
- Capers: 1 tablespoon (adds a tangy, briny note)
- Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (for a smoky flavor)
- Coconut milk: 1/2 cup (for a creamy, tropical twist)
- Basil: 1 tablespoon (chopped, for a fresh, herbal touch)
With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create a delicious garlic prawns dish that’s sure to be a hit. Feel free to mix and match the optional ingredients to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking garlic prawns is a delightful and straightforward process. Here’s a detailed guide to help you create a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Preparing the Prawns
- Clean and Prep: Start by rinsing the prawns under cold water. If they aren’t already peeled and deveined, peel the shells off and remove the vein along the back. Pat them dry with paper towels.
- Marinate: In a bowl, combine the prawns with a tablespoon of olive oil, half of the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.
Cooking the Garlic
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the chopped garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Combining Ingredients
- Cook the Prawns: Add the marinated prawns to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Add Lemon Juice and Parsley: Pour in the rest of the lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Toss everything together and cook for an additional minute.
- Optional Ingredients: If you’re using optional ingredients like cherry tomatoes, add them just after the prawns and let them cook together for a few minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Plating: Transfer the garlic prawns to a serving dish. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
- Pair with Sides: Serve the prawns over a bed of fluffy rice, pasta, or alongside a fresh green salad.
- Beverage Recommendations: Pair with a sparkling water with a twist of lemon works beautifully.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Prawns
- Don’t Overcook: Prawns cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Keep an eye on them and remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and lemon juice for the best flavor.
- High Heat: Cooking prawns on high heat helps sear them quickly and keeps them juicy.
Presentation Tips
- Garnish: Sprinkle extra chopped parsley and lemon zest on top for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serving Dish: Use a white or light-colored serving dish to make the prawns stand out.
- Lemon Wedges: Arrange lemon wedges around the edge of the platter for an attractive and functional garnish.
Variations and Substitutions
There are endless ways to customize garlic prawns to suit your taste and dietary needs. Here are some ideas for variations and substitutions.
Different Ways to Prepare Garlic Prawns
- Spicy Garlic Prawns: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or finely chopped fresh chili for some heat.
- Creamy Garlic Prawns: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a rich, creamy sauce.
- Grilled Garlic Prawns: Marinate the prawns and then grill them for a smoky flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Restrictions
- Butter Instead of Olive Oil: Use butter for a richer flavor, or use a dairy-free margarine for a lactose-free option.
- Herbs: Swap parsley for cilantro or basil for a different herbal note.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute prawns with large mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cooking garlic prawns can be simple, but you might have a few questions along the way. Here are some FAQs to help you out.
How to Store and Reheat Garlic Prawns?
Storing: Place any leftover garlic prawns in an airtight container and refrigerate them within two hours of cooking. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, you can use a skillet over medium heat. Add a small splash of water or broth to keep the prawns from drying out, and heat them just until warmed through. You can also use the microwave; place the prawns in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent), and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Can I Use Frozen Prawns?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen prawns. Make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. To thaw, place the frozen prawns in a colander and run cold water over them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are completely thawed. Pat them dry with paper towels before marinating and cooking.
How to Make Garlic Prawns Spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, there are several ways to spice up your garlic prawns:
Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch or more to the garlic as it cooks.
Fresh Chili: Finely chop a fresh red chili and sauté it with the garlic.
Hot Sauce: Drizzle some of your favorite hot sauce over the prawns before serving.
I hope you enjoy making and eating these garlic prawns as much as I do! I’d love to hear how your dish turned out and any personal twists you added. Did you make it spicier? Did you serve it with a unique side dish? Share your experiences, tips, and photos in the comments below or tag me on social media. Your feedback and stories make our food community even richer and more vibrant. Happy cooking!
