Prawns - Garlic And Spice

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Mediterranean

Juicy, spicy prawns infused with garlic and lemon, perfect for seafood lovers and ideal as an appetizer or main course with bold, zesty flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. large fresh unpeeled prawns
  • 1/2 cup dry sherry
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 1/2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Cut prawns along the back with a small pair of scissors from end to just before the tail, leaving the shell and tail on.
  2. Remove the vein, rinse, and dry with paper towel.
  3. In a bowl, combine dry sherry, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, and crushed red pepper.
  4. Add the prepared prawns to the marinade, tossing to coat thoroughly.
  5. Heat a skillet over medium heat, then add the prawns and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
  6. Arrange prawns on a serving platter with lemon wedges around the edges.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the marinade. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the crushed red pepper. You can substitute the dry sherry with white wine or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic option. Always ensure the prawns are fresh and firm for the best texture, and remember that cooking time may vary based on the size of the prawns.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the prawns with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious marinade. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a light meal. For a more substantial option, consider serving alongside pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or main course, and it complements Mediterranean recipes beautifully.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover prawns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through, being careful not to overcook and dry them out. You can also enjoy them cold in salads or pasta dishes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Prawns - Garlic And Spice contains roughly 38 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.

38 kcal 2% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.1g 2% DV
Total Fat 2g 3% DV
Carbs 5.1g 2% DV
Fiber 1.7g 6% DV
Sugar 1.5g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 25mg 1% DV
Potassium 153.3mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 1.4mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 116.7mcg 13% DV
Vitamin C 19.2mg 21% DV
Calcium 13mg 1% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
Contains Shellfish

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen prawns, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating. This will help ensure they absorb the flavors better and cook evenly. Adjust cooking time slightly as frozen prawns may require a minute or two longer to cook through.

What can I substitute for dry sherry?

If you don't have dry sherry on hand, white wine or a splash of apple cider vinegar mixed with water can serve as a good substitute. The goal is to maintain the acidity and depth of flavor without overpowering the dish, so choose a substitute that suits your taste.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the spiciness, you can add more crushed red pepper or even a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade. Additionally, consider serving the prawns with a spicy dipping sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes just before serving for an extra kick.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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