Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta Delight

This chilli garlic prawn pasta is a vibrant, crowd-pleasing meal bringing together juicy prawns and a gently spicy tomato sauce with surprising depth. It is my favorite dish for busy weeknights and cozy weekends alike. There is something about the sweet tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and perfectly bouncy pasta that makes every bite a treat.

I remember the first time I made this for friends. The kitchen filled with the scent of garlic and everyone hovered impatiently by the stove. Now it is my go to comfort dish whenever I want to impress with little effort.

Ingredients

• Raw prawns: Give a sweet succulence to the pasta. Use wild caught or sustainably farmed for best taste and texture
• Linguine or spaghetti: Create the ideal base. Choose bronze cut pasta for extra sauce clinging power
• Fresh tomatoes: Deliver more depth and brightness than canned. Use ripe, firm tomatoes
• Fresh parsley: Brings a peppery freshness. Look for perky, deep green leaves
• Tomato paste: Intensifies the sauce flavor. Try double concentrated for richness
• Garlic: Adds aromatic bite. Mince just before using for boldest flavor
• Dried chilli flakes: Add customizable heat. Taste your batch to adjust the spice level
• Sugar: Balances the acidity in tomatoes. Either brown or white sugar works
• Salt and black pepper: Sharpen all flavors. Use freshly ground for best results
• Olive oil: Gives the dish that silky restaurant sheen. Use a robust extra virgin for both cooking and drizzling
• Paprika: Infuses a smoky earthiness. You can go sweet or smoky depending on your mood
• Optional garnishes: Like Parmesan, more parsley, or a swirl of olive oil lift the whole dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Prawns:

Mix raw prawns with minced garlic salt black pepper paprika and olive oil in a bowl. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes to infuse flavor right into the flesh

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of well salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in your linguine or spaghetti and cook until just al dente according to package timing. Reserve a cup of pasta water

Pan Sear the Prawns:

Heat a wide pan over medium high heat. Sear the prawns in a single layer for exactly one minute per side until they turn opaque and slightly golden. Remove and set aside

Prepare the Sauce:

In the same pan pour in olive oil. Add minced garlic and tomato paste. Sauté gently for two minutes until the garlic softens and the paste darkens. Stir in diced tomatoes chilli flakes sugar salt and black pepper

Simmer the Sauce:

Lower the heat and cover the pan. Let the sauce simmer for ten minutes so the tomatoes break down and the flavor melds

Combine and Serve:

Add the seared prawns and chopped parsley to the sauce. Toss in the drained pasta plus a small splash of pasta cooking water. Stir everything together well so the pasta is glossy and coated. Top with extra parsley a swirl of olive oil or Parmesan if liked. Serve promptly

I will never forget the summer evening my partner and I cooked this together after a day at the market. The fresh prawns and local tomatoes made the house smell incredible. My favorite part is always that first taste of garlicky prawn against the spicy tomato backdrop

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Prawns will stay tender if you avoid the microwave

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use peeled frozen prawns if fresh are not available just defrost and pat dry to avoid extra moisture. Substitute penne or fettuccine for spaghetti if you prefer. For a no seafood version try roasted cauliflower florets or sautéed mushrooms

Serving Suggestions

Chilli garlic prawn pasta shines with a crisp green salad and a chunk of sourdough bread. Offer extra Parmesan and lemon wedges at the table. It also pairs beautifully with lightly chilled white wine or fizzy water with lemon

Cultural and Historical Context

Seafood pasta is a beloved tradition in southern Italy where quick cooking and bright sauce elevate the freshest ingredients. Adding chilli and garlic nods to both classic Italian and modern Mediterranean inspirations making this meal timeless and adaptable

Make this bold pasta on any night you crave something fresh and exciting. You will want to put it on repeat!

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use frozen prawns?

Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking for best texture and flavor.

→ Which pasta works best for this dish?

Linguine or spaghetti pairs beautifully, holding the sauce well. Short pastas can also be used if preferred.

→ How spicy does this get?

The heat level depends on your chosen amount of chilli flakes. Adjust to your taste for milder or bolder results.

→ Is fresh parsley essential?

Fresh parsley adds vibrancy and aroma, but you may substitute with basil or omit if desired.

→ What can I add for extra richness?

Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or freshly grated parmesan cheese for added depth and flavor.

→ Can this be made gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap in your preferred gluten-free pasta variety; follow package timing for best texture.