Introduction to Creamy Garlic Prawns
Why Creamy Garlic Prawns are a Game Changer
If you’re searching for a dish that elevates your seafood game, look no further than creamy garlic prawns. This irresistible recipe transforms juicy prawns into a culinary sensation with a luxurious, rich sauce that can turn any weeknight dinner into a gourmet feast. Perfect for impressing friends or simply treating yourself, these prawns are your new go-to!
So, what makes this dish a game changer? First off, the creamy garlic sauce is unparalleled. With just a few tricks—like deglazing the pan with chicken stock and enhancing the flavor with freshly grated parmesan—you’ll create a mouthwatering sauce that clings to each succulent prawn perfectly. This is a dish where every bite feels indulgent.
Moreover, creamy garlic prawns are easy to prepare, making them an excellent choice for busy young professionals. Whether you pair them with some mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce or serve them over pasta, this dish is sure to satisfy your palate and impress any guest.
Ready to dive in? Let’s explore the easy steps to create this delightful recipe that you’ll come back to time and time again. For more tips on cooking seafood, check out this article from Seafood Health Facts.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Prawns
Essential ingredients for marinated prawns
To kick off your creamy garlic prawns, you'll need the following essentials to marinate those plump, juicy prawns:
- 500g / 1lb peeled prawns/shrimp: Opt for large or jumbo prawns for a satisfying bite.
- 1 garlic clove: Finely minced to infuse your prawns with a robust garlic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This helps to keep the prawns moist during cooking.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick.
- ½ teaspoon salt: To enhance all those delicious flavors.
Key ingredients for creamy garlic sauce
Now, let’s talk about the rich, velvety sauce that turns this dish from great to unforgettable. Gather these key ingredients:
- 2 garlic cloves: Finely minced for an extra hit of flavor.
- 15g / 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: For that essential touch of richness.
- ¼ cup chicken stock: Use low sodium for a healthier option, or you can substitute with vegetable stock.
- 1 cup heavy/thickened cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy and delightful.
- ½ cup grated parmesan: Freshly grated, of course! It melts beautifully into the sauce, adding depth and flavor.
- 2 tablespoon parsley: Finely chopped to elevate your dish with a pop of freshness.
With these ingredients, you'll be well on your way to making a dish that impresses everyone around the table! If you're looking for more culinary inspiration, check out The Spruce Eats for additional tips and recipes.
Preparing Creamy Garlic Prawns
Creating creamy garlic prawns is an excellent way to impress friends or spice up a weeknight dinner. Follow these easy steps to whip up a dish that’s bursting with flavor and oh-so-satisfying. Let’s dive in!
Marinate the Prawns
Start your journey with a simple marinade. In a bowl, combine:
- 500g (1lb) peeled prawns (large or jumbo work best for texture)
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Toss everything together to coat the prawns evenly. If you have the time, let them marinate for about 20 minutes — this helps infuse the flavors deeply. Just before cooking, mix in ½ teaspoon of salt to ensure your prawns are seasoned well.
Cook the Prawns
Now it's time to bring the heat! Melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the butter is bubbly, add half of your marinated prawns. Cook for about 1 minute on each side until they are opaque. This should only take a minute or so per side, so keep an eye on them—they cook quickly!
Once cooked, remove the prawns from the skillet and set them aside. Repeat this process with the remaining prawns. Be sure to scrape out any excess garlic from the pan after removing the prawns to keep the flavors clean.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter and allow it to melt. Toss in 2 minced garlic cloves, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant and lightly golden. Here comes the fun part: add ½ cup of low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock. Let it reduce slightly, allowing the flavors to meld.
Next, pour in 1 cup of thickened cream, letting it simmer on medium heat for about 2 minutes. Now it’s time to add a touch of elegance with ½ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and creamy; this will form the delicious base for your creamy garlic prawns.
Combine Prawns and Sauce
After your sauce has thickened, return the cooked prawns to the skillet. Gently fold them into the creamy goodness. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—a little extra salt or pepper can elevate the dish.
Adjusting Seasoning and Serving
To serve, sprinkle some finely chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Pair your creamy garlic prawns over a bed of mashed potatoes or a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that dreamy sauce. It's a meal that balances sophistication with comfort—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself!
For more tips on cooking seafood perfectly, check out sites like Seafood Nutrition or The Kitchn. Happy cooking!
Variations on Creamy Garlic Prawns
Creamy Garlic Prawns with Vegetables
Elevate your creamy garlic prawns by tossing in seasonal veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or asparagus. Sauté the vegetables alongside the prawns, allowing them to soak up that indulgent sauce. This variation not only adds color to your plate but also boosts the dish's nutritional value. For a lighter twist, consider adding zucchini noodles as a base instead of traditional pasta.
Spicy Creamy Garlic Prawns
If you love a kick, try making your creamy garlic prawns with a spicy twist! Mix in some red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the creamy sauce for a delightful heat that complements the garlic. You can also add jalapeños or diced chili peppers while cooking the prawns for an extra punch. Explore this flavor powerhouse for a memorable meal that leaves your taste buds tingling!
For more on how to incorporate flavors, check out these tips from BBC Good Food.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Creamy Garlic Prawns
Choosing the Right Prawns
For the creamy garlic prawns, larger prawns or shrimp are preferable. They’re easier to handle and stay juicy during cooking. If using frozen prawns, thaw them overnight in the fridge for the best texture. Always opt for fresh or high-quality frozen options to elevate your dish.
Best Practices for Cooking
To get that rich, creamy garlic sauce just right, remember to deglaze the pan with chicken stock instead of wine if you prefer a non-alcoholic option. This step lifts all the delicious bits stuck to the skillet, adding tons of flavor. Lastly, don’t rush; let the sauce simmer gently to thicken and develop complexity.
For more cooking insights, you might find this guide on seafood cooking techniques useful!
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Garlic Prawns
Pairing with Side Dishes
When serving your creamy garlic prawns, consider delectable side dishes that will elevate the experience:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture complements the rich sauce perfectly.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or asparagus add a fresh crunch that balances the creaminess.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious sauce.
Creative Serving Ideas
To impress your guests, think outside the box:
- Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve the prawns atop fluffy rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
- In a Pasta Dish: Toss them with your favorite pasta for a sumptuous twist on a classic dish.
- As Part of a Tapas Spread: Serve as an elegant appetizer with toothpicks for easy enjoyment.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to tailor your creamy garlic prawns for any occasion. Explore more serving options here.
Time Breakdown for Creamy Garlic Prawns
Preparation time
Getting started on your creamy garlic prawns takes a quick 5 minutes. This includes prepping your marinated prawns and gathering your ingredients, making it an easy and fast process.
Cooking time
The cooking process is just as speedy—around 12 minutes! Your prawns will sizzle and soak up that delicious creamy sauce with minimal fuss.
Total time
With the optional marination included, the total time is approximately 37 minutes. This means you'll be enjoying your scrumptious dish in no time! For tips on how to maximize your cooking efficiency, check out this quick cooking techniques guide. Whether you're indulging yourself or impressing guests, this dish is a winner!
Nutritional Facts for Creamy Garlic Prawns
Calories
A satisfying serving of Creamy Garlic Prawns contains approximately 490 calories. This makes it a fulfilling dish without going overboard on your calorie intake.
Protein
With 32 grams of protein per serving, this dish is not only delicious but also an excellent source of lean protein, making it a great option for a post-workout meal.
Sodium
Keep in mind that each serving has around 1499 milligrams of sodium. If you're watching your salt intake, consider using low-sodium chicken stock to help balance flavors while staying mindful of your health.
For more insights on healthy eating, check out The American Heart Association for tips on heart-healthy recipes!
FAQs about Creamy Garlic Prawns
Can I use frozen prawns?
Absolutely! Frozen prawns can be a convenient option for this creamy garlic prawn recipe. Just be sure to thaw them properly overnight in the fridge, draining any excess water. Pat them dry before marinating to ensure they cook evenly and absorb that delicious garlic flavor!
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, you’re in for a treat! Store your creamy garlic prawns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave on low heat to avoid overcooking—nobody wants rubbery prawns!
What can I serve with creamy garlic prawns?
These creamy garlic prawns shine when served over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option. A side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad also complements the dish beautifully. You can check out some great sides to pair with your meal here or explore garlic bread recipes to soak up that luscious sauce!
Conclusion on Creamy Garlic Prawns
In conclusion, creamy garlic prawns are not just a dish, but an experience waiting to happen in your kitchen. With minimal prep and a depth of flavor that impresses, they are perfect for any occasion. Pair them with something to soak up the delicious sauce, and enjoy a meal that's truly spectacular!
For more inspiration, check out this guide on seafood cooking tips and elevate your culinary skills even further!
Creamy Garlic Prawns
Equipment
- skillet
Ingredients
Garlic marinated prawns
- 500 g peeled prawns/shrimp large/jumbo best
- 1 garlic clove finely minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Cooking prawns
- 15 g unsalted butter
Creamy garlic sauce
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced
- 15 g unsalted butter
- ¼ cup dry white wine or more chicken stock
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable stock/broth low sodium
- 1 cup heavy/thickened cream
- ½ cup parmesan finely grated
- 2 tablespoon parsley finely chopped
Instructions
Marinate Prawns
- Place prawns, garlic, oil and pepper in a bowl. Toss to coat, set aside 20 minutes.
- Stir through salt just prior to cooking.
Cook prawns
- Melt 15g / 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add half the prawns and cook for 1 minute on each side, then remove.
- Repeat with remaining prawns, then remove. Scrape out excess garlic from pan and add to cooked prawns.
Creamy Sauce
- Add butter into skillet and let it melt. Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds or until light golden.
- Add white wine, turn up heat to high. Bring to simmer while stirring to dissolve golden bits into the sauce. Cook until the wine smell is gone.
- Add chicken stock and reduce until mostly gone.
- Add cream, then simmer on medium heat for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir through parmesan, then add the prawns back in. Taste sauce and add more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve sprinkled with parsley, over mashed potato or something to soak up the sauce.
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