Name: Creamy Garlic Prawns
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 500 g peeled prawns/shrimp (large/jumbo best); 1 clove garlic (finely minced); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp salt; 15 g unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic (finely minced); 15 g unsalted butter; 1/4 cup dry white wine (or more chicken stock); 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock/broth (low sodium); 1 cup heavy/thickened cream

Introduction to Creamy Garlic Prawns

Creamy Garlic Prawns are a delightful dish that perfectly balances indulgence and simplicity, making them an ideal choice for busy professionals. After a long day, you might find yourself craving something comforting yet quick to prepare—this recipe delivers on both fronts. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up this gourmet meal right in your own kitchen, transforming a regular weeknight into a special occasion.

These prawns are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They lend themselves well to various occasions, whether it’s a romantic dinner, a fun gathering with friends, or a cozy meal for one. With just a handful of accessible ingredients, you’ll create a rich and satisfying sauce that will elevate the humble prawn to new culinary heights.

For those curious about how to enjoy the flavors without alcohol, consider substituting white wine with chicken broth for that rich depth of flavor without the fuss. Whether you serve them over rice, pasta, or simply with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, Creamy Garlic Prawns are sure to impress. Ready to dive into this creamy delight? Let's get cooking!

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Prawns

Essential ingredients for marinated prawns

To kick off your Creamy Garlic Prawns, you'll need some essential ingredients for marinating those delightful prawns. Start with 500g of peeled prawns or shrimp—the larger, the better for that juicy bite. You’ll also want one finely minced garlic clove, one tablespoon of olive oil, and a pinch each of black pepper and salt (½ teaspoon each). The marination process enhances the flavor, making every bite irresistible.

Creamy garlic sauce ingredients

Now for the star of the show: the creamy garlic sauce. You'll need two more minced garlic cloves, another 15g of unsalted butter, ¼ cup of chicken stock (or broth), and 1 cup of heavy cream to create that silky texture everyone loves. For a bit of flavorful depth, consider adding a splash of lemon juice (this helps to brighten the flavors).

With these ingredients in hand, you're well on your way to creating a delicious dish that’s perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in! For more tips on choosing ingredients, check out these expert recommendations for cooking seafood.

Preparing Creamy Garlic Prawns

Creating a dish of Creamy Garlic Prawns in your kitchen can be a delightful experience. With fragrant garlic and tender prawns enveloped in a rich sauce, it's a sure-fire way to impress your friends or simply treat yourself. Let’s walk through the steps together!

Marinate the Prawns

The first step is to make sure your prawns are bursting with flavor. In a bowl, combine:

500g of peeled large prawns
1 finely minced garlic clove
1 tablespoon of olive oil
½ teaspoon of black pepper

Toss everything well to coat the prawns evenly and allow them to marinate for about 20 minutes. If you're pressed for time, even a quick toss can enhance the flavor a bit. Stir in ½ teaspoon of salt just before cooking for the best results.

Cooking the Prawns

Now it’s time to get cooking! Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.

Add half of the marinated prawns to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and keep them warm.
Do the same with the remaining prawns, using the same skillet and not needing to add more butter. The leftover garlic residue will add a lovely depth to the dish.

Making the Creamy Garlic Sauce

With the prawns out of the skillet, it's now your moment to shine as a sauce chef. Add another tablespoon of unsalted butter to the pan and let it melt.

Toss in 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds until they turn light golden. This part is crucial, as it sets the base for your cream sauce.
Next, add in ¼ cup of low-sodium chicken stock. Allow it to reduce slightly, then pour in ½ cup of heavy cream, simmering it on medium heat for about 2 minutes until it thickens.

Combining Prawns with the Sauce

Once your sauce reaches the desired creaminess, it’s time to reunite the prawns.

Carefully add the cooked prawns back to the skillet and mix them in gently.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed, perhaps with a bit more salt or pepper. You’re looking for that perfect balance that makes you sigh with satisfaction when you take a bite.

Final Touches and Tasting

To finish off your Creamy Garlic Prawns, sprinkle fresh grated parmesan cheese into the sauce and stir it in. This adds an incredible richness that brings the dish together beautifully. Don’t forget to plate your prawns with a final sprinkle of parsley for that pop of color!

So, how about it? Ready to indulge in a plate of creamy garlic goodness? When you serve this dish, expect a chorus of “this is amazing!” around the table—trust us, it's well-earned praise from your guests. Enjoy!

Variations on Creamy Garlic Prawns

Creamy Garlic Prawns with Spinach

Elevate your Creamy Garlic Prawns by adding fresh spinach! Simply sauté a couple of cups of spinach in the pan before pouring in the cream sauce. The vibrant greenery not only adds a nutritious boost but also enhances the dish's flavor and presentation. Plus, it’s an easy way to incorporate more veggies into your meal.

Creamy Garlic Prawns with Zucchini Noodles

For a lighter twist, try Creamy Garlic Prawns with Zucchini Noodles. Swap out traditional pasta for spiralized zucchini, which cooks quickly and absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully. This variation not only keeps the dish healthy but also adds a delightful crunch. Just toss the zucchini noodles in the sauce for a minute before serving, and enjoy a fresh, guilt-free delight!

These variations bring fun and health to your Creamy Garlic Prawns—perfect for impressing friends or enjoying a cozy evening in. For more recipe ideas and techniques, check out this comprehensive guide on elevating seafood dishes!

Cooking tips for Creamy Garlic Prawns

Choosing the right prawns

When crafting the perfect Creamy Garlic Prawns, selecting the right prawns is key. Go for large or jumbo prawns for a satisfying bite—they cook evenly and retain juiciness. If you can, buy raw, fresh prawns from a trusted source, or opt for high-quality frozen ones, thawed overnight in the fridge, as suggested by experts like the Seafood Nutrition Partnership.

Ensuring the sauce is creamy and flavorful

To achieve a rich and decadent sauce, use heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan. Don't skip the deglazing step; it’s essential for capturing every bit of flavor. Stir in the garlic until it’s golden, creating a fragrant base before adding the cream, which thickens beautifully when simmered. Taste as you go—this lets you personalize the seasoning for your Creamy Garlic Prawns!

Serving suggestions for Creamy Garlic Prawns

Best sides to complement creamy garlic prawns

To create a delightful meal, consider pairing your Creamy Garlic Prawns with sides that balance the richness of the dish. Here are some tasty suggestions:

Steamed asparagus: The crisp texture and slight bitterness pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Garlic bread: Help soak up the luscious garlic sauce while adding a satisfying crunch.
Cilantro lime rice: This bright, zesty side enhances the prawns’ flavor and adds a refreshing touch.

For more ideas on complementary sides, check out this guide on perfect pairings.

Creative plating ideas

Elevate your dining experience with some simple plating techniques. Start by adding a scoop of rice or pasta in the center of your plate, then artfully arrange the Creamy Garlic Prawns on top. Drizzle the sauce around the plate for a touch of elegance. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color. For an added sense of occasion, consider serving it in a shallow bowl, garnished with lemon wedges and a light dusting of grated parmesan.

With these ideas, you'll create a dish that’s not only tasty but visually appealing, making mealtime feel special.

Time Breakdown for Creamy Garlic Prawns

Preparation Time

Getting everything ready for your Creamy Garlic Prawns takes about 20 minutes. This includes marinating the prawns and chopping up the garlic for your delicious sauce.

Cooking Time

The fun part begins! You'll need about 10 minutes to cook the prawns and prepare the creamy sauce to complement them perfectly.

Total Time

All in all, you can whip up this delightful dish in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels gourmet!

Want to know more about prepping shrimp? Check out this handy guide on shrimp preparation. Plus, if you’re curious about the best cooking methods for prawns, this resource will have you covered!

Nutritional facts for Creamy Garlic Prawns

When indulging in Creamy Garlic Prawns, it’s important to know what you're putting on your plate. Here's a quick rundown of the nutritional facts:

Calories
Each serving contains approximately 490 calories, making this a hearty option that satisfies without overwhelming.

Protein
With about 32 grams of protein per serving, this dish provides a fantastic boost for your muscles, perfect for a post-workout meal.

Sodium
It’s worth noting that there’s around 1,499 mg of sodium in each serving. Be mindful if you're watching your salt intake, as this value is substantial for one meal.

Knowing these facts can help you make informed decisions as you enjoy this delicious dish. Check out more about the nutritional benefits of shrimp here. As always, moderation is key for a balanced diet!

FAQs about Creamy Garlic Prawns

Can I use frozen prawns instead?

Absolutely! Using frozen prawns in your Creamy Garlic Prawns recipe is perfectly fine. Just ensure they're fully thawed before marination. To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight or place them in a colander under cold running water for about 10 minutes. Pat them dry before adding to your dish for that beautiful, juicy texture.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative. For a more traditional swap, half-and-half or evaporated milk can work as well. Just keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly alter the taste and creaminess of your sauce.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Making Creamy Garlic Prawns gluten-free is a breeze! Simply ensure that your chicken or vegetable stock is gluten-free and opt for a gluten-free pasta or rice to serve as a side dish. This way, you’ll enjoy all the flavorful goodness without any gluten concerns.

For more tips on creating gluten-free meals, check out this guide.

Conclusion on Creamy Garlic Prawns

In conclusion, Creamy Garlic Prawns are not just a dish; they’re a delightful experience for any seafood lover. With their rich, velvety sauce and rich flavors, they're perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself. Dive into this recipe and savor each bite like the culinary masterpiece it is! Enjoy!