Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta: A Spicy Delight for Seafood Lovers

Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta is a dish that never fails to impress, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in. The combination of succulent prawns, aromatic garlic, and a kick of chili creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. This recipe has its roots in Mediterranean cuisine, where seafood and pasta are celebrated for their delightful pairings. Over the years, Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta has gained popularity across the globe, loved for its perfect balance of heat and richness.

What makes this dish truly special is not just its taste, but also its texture. The tender prawns complement the al dente pasta beautifully, creating a satisfying mouthfeel that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to whip up, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that brings the essence of the sea right to your table!

Ingredients:

• 200g spaghetti or linguine
• 300g large prawns, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup white wine (or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Preparing the Pasta

1. **Boil Water**: Start by filling a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water; this will help flavor the pasta as it cooks. 2. **Cook the Pasta**: Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti or linguine. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 3. **Reserve Pasta Water**: Before draining the pasta, make sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help to create a silky sauce later on. 4. **Drain the Pasta**: Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Do not rinse the pasta, as you want to keep the starch that will help the sauce adhere.

Preparing the Prawns

5. **Season the Prawns**: While the pasta is cooking, take your prawns and season them lightly with salt and pepper. This will enhance their natural flavor. 6. **Heat the Oil**: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking. 7. **Cook the Prawns**: Add the seasoned prawns to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque. Flip them over and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Once cooked, remove the prawns from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Making the Sauce

8. **Sauté Garlic and Chilies**: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and chopped red chilies. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. 9. **Add Cherry Tomatoes**: Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices. 10. **Deglaze with Wine**: Pour in the white wine (or vegetable broth) and scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly. 11. **Add Lemon Juice**: Stir in the lemon juice, which will brighten the flavors of the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Combining Everything

12. **Return Prawns to the Skillet**: Add the cooked prawns back into the skillet, tossing them gently to coat in the sauce. 13. **Combine with Pasta**: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the pasta seems dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. The sauce should cling to the pasta without being too watery. 14. **Final Touches**: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle in the chopped fresh parsley. Give everything a final toss to combine.

Serving the Dish

15. **Plate the Pasta**: Serve the Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta immediately. You can use tongs to twirl the pasta onto plates for a nice presentation. 16. **Garnish**: If desired, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. 17. **Enjoy**: Sit down and enjoy your delicious homemade Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta! Pair it with a crisp salad or a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

– **Pasta Alternatives**: Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as f

Conclusion:

In summary, this Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a dinner party. The combination of succulent prawns, aromatic garlic, and a hint of spice creates a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Plus, it comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you still want to enjoy a gourmet meal. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this pasta with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine to complement the flavors beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or cherry tomatoes, or even swapping the prawns for chicken or a plant-based protein for a different twist. I truly encourage you to give this Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the love for this fantastic dish together! Happy cooking! Print