Garlic Chilli Prawn Pasta – Restaurant-Style in Minutes

Introduction

If you’re craving something bold, aromatic, and quick to make, this garlic chilli prawn pasta delivers in every way. Juicy prawns are tossed with spaghetti in a glossy, garlicky olive oil sauce spiked with red chilli flakes and finished with herbs and a hint of lemon. It’s the kind of dish that feels like it came straight from a coastal Italian bistro—but takes less than 30 minutes at home.

Perfect for fans of garlic prawn pasta recipes or anyone who loves seafood pasta with a little heat, this meal is all about fresh ingredients and big flavor. The silky sauce clings to every strand of pasta, and the prawns stay tender and succulent.

Ingredients Overview

This pasta uses simple Mediterranean-style ingredients that come together beautifully for maximum flavor.

Prawns (Shrimp)

• Use raw, peeled, and deveined prawns—tail-on or tail-off depending on presentation preference.

• Fresh or frozen (thawed) both work well.

• Choose medium to large prawns for best texture and visual appeal.

Pasta

• Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are ideal for soaking up the glossy garlic oil.

• Can be swapped with angel hair or tagliatelle.

Garlic

• Use fresh garlic cloves, finely sliced or minced for intense flavor.

• Garlic is the heart of this sauce—don’t skimp.

Olive Oil

• Extra virgin olive oil acts as the base for the silky emulsion.

• Good-quality oil elevates the entire dish.

Chilli Flakes

• Adds the signature kick—adjust to taste.

• Use crushed red pepper flakes or even finely chopped fresh red chilli for a brighter spice.

Herbs & Finishers

• Fresh parsley adds a fresh contrast to the rich oil.

• Lemon zest or juice brightens and balances the dish.

• Optional: a touch of white wine, butter, or grated parmesan to enhance the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Boil a large pot of salted water.

• Add 10 oz spaghetti and cook until al dente.

• Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.

2. Prepare the Prawns

• Pat dry 1 lb raw prawns, and season lightly with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika or chilli powder (optional).

• Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Sear prawns for 1–2 minutes per side until just pink and opaque.

• Remove to a plate and set aside (they’ll finish cooking in the sauce).

3. Build the Garlic Chilli Sauce

• In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.

• Add:

  • ¼ cup olive oil

  • 4–5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

  • ½–1 tsp red chilli flakes

• Sauté for 1–2 minutes until garlic is golden and fragrant, but not burnt.

• Optional: deglaze with a splash of dry white wine and reduce for 1 minute.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add drained pasta directly into the skillet with the garlic oil.

• Toss with:

  • A splash of pasta water

  • A pinch of salt and pepper

  • Zest of 1 lemon

• Stir well to coat all strands evenly and create a light emulsion.

5. Finish with Prawns and Parsley

• Return cooked prawns to the pan.

• Toss everything gently over low heat for 1–2 minutes.

• Add:

  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley

  • Optional: a knob of butter or grated parmesan for richness

6. Serve Immediately

• Plate in warm bowls, top with extra parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil or squeeze of lemon.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Pro Tips:

• Don’t overcook the prawns—remove them as soon as they turn pink.

• Use high-quality olive oil and fresh garlic for maximum flavor.

• If your sauce looks dry, add more pasta water a spoonful at a time.

Variations:

• Tomato Twist: Add halved cherry tomatoes or a spoonful of tomato paste for depth.

• Creamy Option: Stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of mascarpone for a richer sauce.

• Seafood Mix: Use scallops, calamari, or mussels alongside prawns for a deluxe version.

Substitutions:

• Vegan version: Swap prawns for roasted mushrooms or marinated tofu.

• Gluten-free: Use GF pasta and ensure all other ingredients are GF-safe.

• Low-carb: Serve over spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This pasta feels elegant yet relaxed, making it ideal for both casual meals and special occasions.

Serve With:

• Garlic bread or toasted sourdough

• A green salad with lemon vinaigrette

• A glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

Perfect For:

• Date nights at home

• Dinner parties that feel restaurant-inspired but are stress-free

• Quick weeknight meals that still impress

• Seafood lovers who want something a little spicy

Nutritional & Health Notes

This pasta is:

• High in lean protein from prawns

• Rich in heart-healthy fats from olive oil

• Naturally dairy-free and nut-free

To make it lighter:

• Use whole wheat pasta

• Add extra greens like arugula or spinach

• Skip the butter or cheese for a cleaner finish

Still, it feels indulgent without being heavy—and it’s easy to control the spice level for any palate.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen prawns?

A1: Yes. Thaw them completely, then pat dry before cooking. Overcrowding the pan can make them steam instead of sear, so work in batches if needed.

Q2: How do I keep the garlic from burning?

A2: Use medium heat and keep the garlic moving. Thin slices brown quickly—watch closely and remove from heat if it starts to brown too fast.

Q3: Can I make this ahead?

A3: It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the prawns and sauce components earlier. Cook pasta and combine just before serving.

Q4: Is this dish very spicy?

A4: It has gentle heat from chilli flakes, but you can adjust to your taste. For a milder version, reduce or omit the flakes and add sweet paprika.

Q5: What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?

A5: Long shapes like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work best to coat evenly with the garlic oil.

Q6: Can I add cheese?

A6: While not traditional, a sprinkle of parmesan adds a nutty, creamy finish. Add off heat so it doesn’t clump.

Q7: What herbs pair well?

A7: Flat-leaf parsley is classic, but you can also use basil, chives, or a touch of thyme.

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