Prawns Recipe: Easy, Delicious & Ready in Minutes

Introduction to Cooking Prawns

Delicious prawn recipes can elevate your culinary skills and impress anyone at the dinner table. Prawns, known for their versatility, pair well with various flavors from different cuisines around the world. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer or a sophisticated main dish, prawns can be your go-to ingredient. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some easy-to-follow prawn recipes that are ready in minutes, ensuring a delightful meal with minimal effort.

Prawn Linguine with Lemon and Garlic

Prawn Linguine is a classic Italian dish that combines the simplicity of pasta with the rich flavors of seafood.

Ingredients:

• 200g linguine
• 150g large prawns, peeled and deveined
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional for spice)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and chili flakes, cooking until the garlic is golden but not burnt.
3. Add the prawns, cooking until they turn pink, approximately 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in lemon zest and juice, allowing the flavors to meld for a minute.
5. Combine the cooked linguine with the prawn mixture. Toss well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and garnish with parsley.

🔥 Note: Be careful not to overcook the prawns to prevent them from becoming tough. Cooking time may vary based on the size of the prawns.

Crispy Fried Prawns

This recipe offers a delightful crunch and a tender interior, making it a great appetizer or snack.

Ingredients:

• 300g prawns (with tail-on for presentation)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• ¹⁄₂ tsp garlic powder
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Oil for frying
• Salt

Instructions:

1. Mix flour, paprika, and garlic powder in a bowl. In another bowl, place the beaten egg, and in a third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs.
2. Dip each prawn first in the flour mixture, then in the egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry the prawns until they are golden brown, which should take 2-3 minutes. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan.
5. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
6. Season with salt immediately after frying for better flavor absorption.

📌 Note: Ensure oil is at the right temperature to prevent the breading from absorbing too much oil.

Spicy Prawn Cocktail

A modern twist on a classic appetizer, this Spicy Prawn Cocktail combines heat with the refreshing tang of citrus.

Ingredients:

• 200g cooked prawns, chilled
• 1 avocado, diced
• ¹⁄₂ small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for heat)
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cocktail sauce or mayo mixed with chili sauce

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the prawns with avocado, red onion, cucumber, lime juice, jalapeño, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
2. Chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.
3. Serve in individual glasses, topped with a dollop of cocktail sauce or a mixture of mayo and chili sauce.

The journey of creating an impressive meal with prawns doesn't have to be complex. These simple yet delectable prawn recipes demonstrate the versatility and ease with which prawns can be transformed into culinary delights. Whether it's the comforting pasta, the satisfying crunch of fried prawns, or the fresh burst of flavors in a cocktail, prawns always manage to deliver on taste and appeal. They're not only a hit at dinner parties but also perfect for a quick family meal. Remember, the key to perfectly cooked prawns lies in timing and the freshness of the ingredients. Try these recipes out and see how they can brighten up your dining experience!

What is the best way to store prawns before cooking?

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Prawns should be kept in the coldest part of your refrigerator or on ice if possible, especially if you plan to cook them within 24-48 hours. If you won’t use them immediately, consider freezing them in an airtight container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Can these prawn recipes be prepared ahead of time?

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Absolutely! The Prawn Linguine can be prepared up to the point of mixing with the prawns, then reheated before serving. The fried prawns are best when freshly fried but can be kept warm in an oven at a low temperature if necessary. The Spicy Prawn Cocktail can be made a few hours ahead, letting the flavors meld together in the fridge.

Are there any variations for the Prawn Linguine for those who don’t like spice?

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Yes, you can omit the chili flakes completely. Alternatively, you could enhance the dish with herbs like basil or oregano or a dash of white wine instead of lemon for a different flavor profile. You could also add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a non-spicy variation.