Are you craving a meal that packs a punch in both flavor and excitement? Look no further than the Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta Recipe! This dish is a delightful fusion of fresh seafood and a spicy kick that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions, this pasta meal is as delicious as it is quick to prepare. With the vibrancy of fresh tomatoes, the aromatic notes of garlic, and the irresistible flavor of prawns, this recipe brings comfort food to a whole new level.

What sets this Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta apart is its simplicity and the ease with which you can whip it up in your own kitchen. It’s a great way to impress guests or simply enjoy a cozy dinner at home. The balance of flavors—from the sweetness of sautéed tomatoes to the heat from the chilli flakes—creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly fulfilling. Dive into this flavorful, comforting meal that showcases the freshness of ingredients and the joy of cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta

Unmatched in flavor and simplicity, this Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta offers an array of benefits:

Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, fresh tomatoes, and prawns creates a mouthwatering blend that is hard to resist.
Quick and Easy: Get your meal on the table in just 30 minutes—perfect for weeknight dinners!
Versatile: You can adjust the level of spiciness to suit your taste preferences, making it enjoyable for everyone.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
Impressive Presentation: A visually stunning dish with colors that pop—ideal for serving at dinner parties.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Start by clearing your workspace and making sure that all ingredients are within reach. You will need a large pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for sautéing, and a mixing bowl for marinating the prawns. Having a chopping board and knife on standby for dicing tomatoes and chopping parsley will save you time.

Gather your cooking utensils, including a pasta strainer, wooden spoon for mixing, and a measuring cup for precise ingredient quantities. Ensure your ingredients—prawns, tomatoes, and seasonings—are prepped and ready to go. This will help streamline the cooking process and keep you organized. Once everything is set, you’re ready to bring this wonderful Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta to life!

Ingredients

300g raw prawns (thawed, peeled, deveined)
300g linguine or spaghetti
500g fresh tomatoes (diced)
1 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
1 tbsp tomato paste
2 cloves garlic (minced)
½ tbsp dried chilli flakes (adjust to taste)
1 tsp sugar (brown or white)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for serving)
Prawn seasoning:
1 clove garlic (minced)
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika (sweet or smoky)
1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Prawns

Start by preparing the prawns for that flavorful touch. In a mixing bowl, combine the raw prawns with minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and olive oil. Mix thoroughly, ensuring that each prawn is evenly coated with the seasoning. Allow them to marinate for a few minutes. This step is crucial as it ensures that the prawns absorb the aromatics, which enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

As your prawns are marinating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once bubbling, add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. Once cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water will be useful later for adjusting the sauce’s consistency.

Step 3: Pan Sear the Prawns

Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated prawns to the pan without any additional oil (the oil from the marinade is enough). Sear them for about one minute on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to cook in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough. Once seared, remove the prawns from the pan and set them aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Using the same skillet, drizzle in a bit more olive oil if necessary. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, allowing its aroma to fill the air. Next, stir in the tomato paste, combining it with the garlic. Add the diced tomatoes, dried chilli flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and cook for around five minutes until the tomatoes begin to break down, creating a luscious sauce.

Step 5: Simmer the Sauce

Now, lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let the sauce simmer on low for about ten minutes. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Stir the sauce occasionally, tasting it to adjust the seasoning as needed. If it’s too thick, feel free to add some of the reserved pasta water.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Once the sauce has reached the desired flavor and consistency, introduce the cooked prawns back into the skillet, along with chopped parsley. Carefully toss everything together, ensuring that the prawns and parsley are evenly distributed. Finally, add the drained pasta to the skillet, mixing well. If needed, splash in a little more pasta water to help coat the pasta with the sauce. Once combined, your Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta is ready to be served!

Variations

Protein: Substitute prawns with scallops, chicken, or tofu for a different protein experience.
Vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or olives to enhance the flavor and nutrition.
Spices: Adjust spice levels by adding more chilli flakes or incorporating fresh herbs like basil or oregano.

Cooking Notes

Always check the freshness of prawns by ensuring they have a clean, ocean-like smell.
If using frozen prawns, make sure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Garnish your pasta with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added flavor.
Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up any remaining sauce.

Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce before simmering.
Make ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it. Then, just sauté the prawns and cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 560 per serving
Protein: 25g
Sodium: Varies based on seasoning used, typically around 400mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen prawns, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry before marinating and cooking.

What can I substitute for pasta?

If you’re looking for alternatives, zucchini noodles or whole grain pasta can work well for a healthier option.

Can I adjust the spiciness level?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of dried chilli flakes according to your spice preference.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that invigorates your palate. With its simple preparation and incredible flavors, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations and make this recipe your own! Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or entertaining friends, this pasta offering is guaranteed to impress. We invite you to give it a try and to share your experiences in the comments below! Happy cooking!