Chilli Prawns with Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines succulent prawns, a zesty chili sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This quick and easy recipe is packed with spice and savory goodness, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and simple preparation. Let’s explore how you can create this tasty meal at home!
Ingredients for Chilli Prawns with Pasta
To make this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 250g spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 300g large prawns, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How to Make Chilli Prawns with Pasta
Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.
Cook the prawns:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the prawns to the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the prawns from the pan and set them aside.
Prepare the chilli sauce:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and chopped red chilies, sautéing them for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes to combine. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to reduce slightly.
Add lemon:
Squeeze in the lemon juice and add the zest. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, and stir well to combine.
Combine pasta and prawns:
Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the chilli sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, adding a little of the reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning. Once the pasta is well coated in the sauce, add the cooked prawns back into the pan. Toss everything together until heated through.
Serve:
Serve the chilli prawns and pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley. For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top, if desired.
Tips for the Best Chilli Prawns with Pasta
- Adjust the spice level: You can control the heat by adjusting the number of red chilies used. Add extra red chili flakes for more heat if desired.
- Add creaminess: For a richer, creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon of cream or mascarpone towards the end of cooking.
- Serve with sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or some crusty garlic bread. A chilled white wine complements it perfectly.
Chilli Prawns with Pasta is a flavorful, spicy dish that’s quick to make and perfect for any occasion. With its bold flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this zesty and satisfying meal with your loved ones!
FAQs
What can I serve with Chilli Prawns and Pasta?
Chilli Prawns and Pasta pair beautifully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or some crusty garlic bread. A chilled white wine also complements this dish perfectly.
