A Deliciously Simple Prawn Linguine Recipe

This recipe for prawn linguine is quick, easy, and delivers a burst of fresh seafood flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. We'll cover everything from ingredient selection to plating, ensuring you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe serves two people, but it's easily scalable.

• For the Linguine:
  • 250g linguine pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 red chili, finely chopped (optional, for a spicy kick)
  • 250g raw prawns, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For Extra Flavor (Optional):
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Linguine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chili (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Cook the Prawns: Add the prawns to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.

4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the sauce to slightly reduce. This step adds depth of flavor.

5. Combine and Finish: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated in the sauce. Stir in the fresh parsley.

6. Add Finishing Touches (Optional): For an extra rich flavor, stir in the lemon juice and butter. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat.

7. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Prawn Linguine:

• Use high-quality prawns: The flavor of the prawns will significantly impact the overall dish. Opt for fresh, sustainably sourced prawns whenever possible.
• Don't overcook the prawns: Overcooked prawns will become tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the chili or use a smaller amount. Conversely, add more chili for extra heat.
• Fresh parsley is key: The bright, fresh flavor of parsley elevates the dish. Don't substitute dried parsley.
• Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking, while the pasta is still hot and the prawns are tender.

Serving Suggestions:

• A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette complements this dish perfectly.
• A crusty bread is great for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• A glass of chilled white wine pairs beautifully with the seafood flavors.

This prawn linguine recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!