Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that won't keep you chained to the kitchen all evening? Then look no further! This recipe for Spaghetti with Prawns is your answer. It's a delightful blend of fresh, vibrant flavors, ready in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect healthy meal or quick dinner idea for busy weeknights. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels, promising a delicious dish that's sure to impress. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game!
Ingredients:
This simple recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for even the busiest cooks.
- 1 pound linguine or spaghetti
- 1 pound large prawns, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
This step-by-step guide ensures a perfect dish every time.
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Cook the prawns: Add the prawns to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the prawns from the skillet and set aside.
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Deglaze the pan (optional): If using white wine, add it to the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a minute or two until slightly reduced. If substituting with chicken broth, skip this step.
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Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the prawns, parsley, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined. Add a little pasta water if needed to create a light sauce.
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Serve: Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for the Best Spaghetti with Prawns:
- Don't overcook the prawns: Overcooked prawns become rubbery. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side for perfectly cooked, juicy prawns.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh parsley and lemon juice make a huge difference in the flavor of this dish.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes or use a smaller amount.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini, to make this a more complete meal.
Variations:
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Lemon zest: Enhance the lemon flavor by adding the zest of half a lemon along with the juice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
This easy spaghetti with prawns recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal!