If there’s one dish that feels like a quick escape to the Italian coast, it’s Spicy Prawn Linguine. I love how the garlic and chili wake up the senses, while the juicy prawns bring a touch of luxury to a simple meal. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something restaurant-worthy but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Best part? There’s a trick to getting the sauce just right. Ready to find out what it is?
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Spicy Prawn Linguine is a perfect blend of bold flavors and simplicity, making it a go-to dish for any occasion.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights.
- Bold and Spicy: The combination of chili and garlic delivers a flavorful kick.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite herbs or veggies for a personalized touch.
Recipe
Indulge in the rich and fiery flavors of Spicy Prawn Linguine, a dish that combines succulent prawns, al dente pasta, and a kick of heat for a satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers looking to spice up their dinner routine with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 250g linguine
- 200g prawns, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red chili, finely chopped
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 100ml white wine or chicken stock
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 50ml of pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add garlic, red chili, and chili flakes, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Add the prawns and cook until they turn pink and opaque, around 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine or chicken stock, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Toss in the cooked linguine, reserved pasta water, and parsley. Stir everything together until well coated. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing.
Notes:
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes and fresh chili to suit your spice tolerance.
- Substitute prawns with other seafood like scallops or mussels for variety.
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories: ~450 per serving
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Equipment
To prepare this Spicy Prawn Linguine, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Gather the following equipment to guarantee a smooth cooking process:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large frying pan or skillet
- Colander for draining pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Tongs or pasta server
Nutrition
This Spicy Prawn Linguine is not only flavorful but also packed with essential nutrients. It offers a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
- High in protein from prawns, supporting muscle repair and growth.
- Contains healthy fats from olive oil, promoting heart health.
- Rich in complex carbohydrates from linguine, providing sustained energy.
- Includes vitamins and minerals from garlic, chili, and parsley, boosting immunity.
- Low in saturated fats, making it a heart-friendly option.
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing my spicy prawn linguine with zesty side salads or warm garlic bread to balance the heat. Fresh veggie platters add a nice crunch, and a glass of invigorating white wine makes the meal feel extra special. For dessert, I’ll often go with something light, like a fruit sorbet, to keep things from feeling too heavy.
Zesty Side Salads
Sometimes, a spicy prawn linguine just needs a fresh, zesty side salad to balance out the heat and richness. I love using seasonal ingredients like crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, or peppery arugula to keep it light. A tangy lemon vinaigrette or a citrus-forward dressing adds brightness without overpowering the main dish. It’s quick to toss together and complements the bold flavors perfectly, making every bite feel balanced.
Garlic Bread Pairing
If you’re serving up a plate of spicy prawn linguine, garlic bread is the ultimate sidekick—it’s got that buttery, garlicky goodness that just feels right. I love experimenting with garlic variations, like roasted or minced, for extra depth. Pairing it with different bread types, like ciabatta or baguette, keeps things interesting. It’s perfect for soaking up every last bit of that spicy sauce. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Fresh Veggie Platters
Fresh veggie platters are a fantastic way to balance out the heat of spicy prawn linguine, adding a cool, crisp contrast that’s both invigorating and satisfying. I love arranging colorful bursts of carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers, paired with fresh dips like hummus or tzatziki. It’s not only healthy but also a fun way to munch through the meal, giving your taste buds a little break from the spice.
Refreshing White Wines
When I’m diving into a plate of spicy prawn linguine, I always reach for a glass of crisp white wine to round out the meal. A Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works wonders, with their crisp acidity cutting through the heat and enhancing the dish’s flavors. I love how the subtle fruit notes, like lemon or green apple, balance the richness, making every bite—and sip—feel invigorating.
Light Dessert Options
After enjoying a flavorful plate of spicy prawn linguine, I’m always in the mood for a light dessert that doesn’t weigh me down. A creamy light panna cotta with a hint of vanilla or citrus feels just right, or I’ll opt for invigorating fruit sorbets like mango or lemon. These treats cool the palate and end the meal on a sweet note without feeling too heavy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Prawns Instead of Fresh?
Ever wondered if frozen prawns hold up in a dish? I’ve used both frozen vs fresh, and while frozen work fine, they may need longer cooking times to thaw and release extra moisture, so I adjust accordingly.
What Can I Substitute for Linguine?
I’d suggest using spaghetti or fettuccine as substituted pasta if you don’t have linguine. I’d also consider gluten-free options like rice noodles or zucchini spirals if I’m avoiding wheat but still want a similar dish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Why toss leftovers when I can keep them fresh? I’ll store them in airtight containers—refrigerator tips say it’s best. I’ll cool them quickly, label with dates, and reheat later for a second satisfying meal.
Is This Recipe Suitable for Meal Prep?
I’d say this recipe’s suitability for meal prep depends on how well it holds up over time. If it’s a dish that reheats nicely and stays flavorful, it’s perfect for meal prep. Always check texture changes.
Can I Make It Less Spicy?
I can make it less spicy by using mild sauces instead of hot ones or reducing chili flakes. I’ll swap out spicy peppers for sweet alternatives like bell peppers to tone down the heat without losing flavor.
