Prawn Pasta Herb Butter Garlic: The Ultimate Recipe

Prawn pasta herb butter garlic – just the name alone conjures up images of a delectable, restaurant-worthy meal, doesn’t it? But what if I told you that you could create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen, with minimal effort and maximum flavor? Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones because this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

While the exact origins of prawn pasta are debated, the combination of seafood and pasta has deep roots in Italian coastal cuisine. For generations, families have gathered around tables laden with dishes showcasing the freshest catches from the sea, expertly paired with perfectly cooked pasta. This particular rendition, featuring the aromatic blend of herb butter and garlic, elevates the classic to new heights.

So, why is prawn pasta herb butter garlic such a beloved dish? It’s a symphony of textures and tastes! The succulent prawns, the perfectly al dente pasta, and the rich, fragrant sauce create an unforgettable experience. The garlic and herbs infuse every bite with a burst of freshness, while the butter adds a luxurious, velvety smoothness. Plus, it’s surprisingly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. I find that the simplicity of the ingredients really allows the quality of the prawns to shine through, creating a truly memorable meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large prawns, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine work well)
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds great flavor!)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Optional: 1/4 cup reserved pasta water

Preparing the Herb Butter:

This step is crucial for infusing the dish with incredible flavor. Don’t skip it!

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped basil, and chopped chives.
2. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes.
3. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more later, so start with a little and adjust as needed.
4. Using a fork or a rubber spatula, thoroughly mix all the ingredients until well combined. The butter should be evenly distributed with the herbs and garlic.
5. Taste the herb butter and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes depending on your preference.
6. Once the herb butter is ready, set it aside. You can also prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. If you refrigerate it, let it soften slightly before using.

Cooking the Pasta:

Properly cooked pasta is essential for a great dish. Al dente is the way to go!

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The water should be generously salted – it helps to season the pasta from the inside out. A good rule of thumb is about 1 tablespoon of salt per gallon of water.
2. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions, until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, and it refers to pasta that is firm to the bite. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, but check the package instructions for the specific cooking time for your pasta shape.
3. While the pasta is cooking, reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be used to help create a creamy sauce later on.
4. Once the pasta is cooked al dente, drain it immediately in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta, as this will wash away the starch that helps the sauce cling to it.

Cooking the Prawns:

Perfectly cooked prawns are tender and juicy. Overcooked prawns are rubbery and tough, so pay close attention!

1. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is large enough to accommodate all the prawns without overcrowding them.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the prawns to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the temperature and cause the prawns to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the prawns in batches.
3. Cook the prawns for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will become tough and rubbery. The internal temperature of the prawns should reach 145°F (63°C).
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet after the prawns are cooked. Let it simmer for about 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This will add even more flavor to the sauce.
5. Remove the prawns from the skillet and set them aside.

Assembling the Dish:

This is where all the elements come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

1. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the herb butter to the skillet and let it melt slowly, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to burn the butter.
2. Once the butter is melted, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the herb butter sauce.
3. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. Start with a tablespoon or two and add more as needed until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Add the cooked prawns back to the skillet and toss gently to combine them with the pasta and sauce.
5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges. The lemon juice adds a bright, acidic note that complements the richness of the butter sauce.

Tips and Variations:

Here are some ideas to customize this recipe to your liking:

• Spice it up: If you like a little more heat, add more red pepper flakes to the herb butter or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the sauce.
• Add vegetables: Sauté some chopped vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms in the skillet before adding the prawns.
• Use different herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs in the herb butter. Thyme, oregano, or rosemary would all be delicious additions.
• Make it creamy: For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the skillet along with the herb butter.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of intense flavor to this dish. Add about 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet along with the prawns.
• Use different seafood: If you’re not a fan of prawns, you can substitute other seafood like scallops, shrimp, or mussels.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly with this prawn pasta.

Storing Leftovers:

Store leftover prawn pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent it from drying out. Be careful not to overcook the prawns when reheating, as they can become tough.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this delicious and easy prawn pasta recipe. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Bon appétit!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another pasta recipe; it’s a ticket to a weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion. The vibrant flavors of the herbs, the pungent garlic, and the succulent prawns all come together in a symphony of taste that will have you craving this dish again and again. Trust me, once you experience the magic of this prawn pasta with herb butter and garlic, you’ll understand why I’m so passionate about it. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s unbelievably delicious – a trifecta of culinary perfection!

But what truly elevates this recipe is its versatility. While I’ve outlined my go-to method, feel free to experiment and make it your own. Craving a little heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce. Want to boost the veggie content? Toss in some sautéed spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes. For a richer, creamier sauce, stir in a dollop of mascarpone cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the very end. The possibilities are truly endless!

And speaking of serving suggestions, this prawn pasta is fantastic on its own as a satisfying main course. However, it also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious garlic butter sauce. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside grilled vegetables or a simple side of roasted potatoes. And don’t forget the wine! A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio would be the perfect complement to the flavors of this dish.

I’ve made this prawn pasta countless times, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect dish for a romantic dinner for two, a casual weeknight meal with the family, or even a sophisticated dinner party with friends. It’s so easy to scale up or down, making it incredibly adaptable to any occasion.

Why You Absolutely Need to Try This Recipe:

* It’s incredibly flavorful: The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and succulent prawns creates a truly unforgettable taste experience.
* It’s quick and easy to make: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* It’s versatile: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, vegetables, and cheeses to create your own unique version.
* It’s a crowd-pleaser: Everyone will love this delicious and satisfying pasta dish.
* It’s a guaranteed success: With clear instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is virtually foolproof.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I’m confident that you’ll love this prawn pasta with herb butter and garlic as much as I do.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve had a chance to make it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking!

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