Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a delicious sauce that elevates the prawns.
- Versatile: Serve as an appetizer or main course, and easily adaptable to various dietary preferences.
- Healthy: Low in calories and carbs, yet high in protein, making it a nutritious choice.
- Impressive: The sizzling skillet presentation makes this dish a standout at any meal.
Ingredients & Preparation Notes
- Prawns: Choose large, fresh prawns for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw them completely before cooking.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for the best flavor. Mince it finely to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Olive Oil and Butter: The combination provides a rich base for the sauce. Use extra-virgin olive oil for its flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a bright, tangy note to balance the richness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but adds a nice kick if you like some heat.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste, but remember that prawns can be naturally salty, so start with a light hand.
Professional Tips & Techniques
- Temperature Control: Keep the heat at medium-high to ensure the garlic sautés quickly without burning. A burnt garlic flavor can ruin the dish.
- Timing: Cook the prawns for just a few minutes on each side. Overcooking can make them rubbery. They’re done when they turn pink and slightly curl.
- Visual Cues: Look for the prawns to turn opaque and slightly curl as signs of doneness. This is more reliable than timing alone.
- Avoid Crowding: Cook the prawns in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Sauce Enhancement: After cooking, tilt the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the prawns for extra flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Garlic Prawns: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced chili pepper for more heat.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the skillet with the garlic for a different flavor profile.
- Citrus Twist: Use orange or lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrus note.
- Creamy Garlic Prawns: Add a splash of heavy cream to the skillet after cooking the prawns for a richer sauce.
- Garlic Prawns with Vegetables: Sauté some bell peppers or spinach in the skillet before adding the prawns for a one-pan meal.
- Grilled Garlic Prawns: Marinate the prawns in the garlic, oil, and lemon mixture, then grill them for a smoky flavor.
- Garlic Prawns Pasta: Toss the cooked prawns and sauce with your favorite pasta for a quick and delicious meal.
- Low-Fat Version: Omit the butter and use only olive oil for a lighter version of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer: Serve the Garlic Prawns in individual ramekins as an elegant appetizer.
- Main Course: Pair with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Side Dishes: Serve alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Presentation: Garnish with lemon wedges and additional parsley for a vibrant presentation.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé pairs well with the flavors of this dish.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the prawns.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the garlic, oil, and lemon mixture in advance, but cook the prawns just before serving for the best texture.
- Freezing: While possible, freezing cooked prawns can affect their texture, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the garlic, oil, and lemon mixture in advance, but cook the prawns just before serving for the best results.
Q: What can I substitute for prawns?
A: Shrimp or scallops can be used as substitutes, adjusting cooking time as needed.
Q: How do I know when the prawns are done?
A: Prawns are done when they turn pink, become opaque, and slightly curl. This usually takes 3-5 minutes of total cooking time.
Q: Can I use frozen prawns?
A: Yes, but thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking for the best texture.
Q: What if I don’t like spicy food?
A: Omit the red pepper flakes for a milder version of the dish.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes, simply omit the butter and use additional olive oil instead.
Q: How can I make this dish more filling?
A: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread to make it a more substantial meal.
Q: What’s the best way to serve Garlic Prawns at a party?
A: Serve in individual portions in small ramekins or on skewers for an easy-to-eat appetizer.
Conclusion
Garlic Prawns are a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With professional tips to ensure perfect results every time, this recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers. Share your creations on social media and let us know how you enjoyed this dish.
Remember, the key to success is in the timing and temperature, so keep an eye on those prawns and enjoy a delicious meal in minutes!
Garlic Prawns
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is hot.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the prawns to the skillet in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink.
- Flip the prawns and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fully cooked. They should be opaque and slightly curled.
- Remove the skillet from heat, stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional parsley if desired.