Creamy Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) Recipe

Creamy Garlic Prawns (Shrimp) is a rich and indulgent dish, featuring tender prawns cooked in a luxurious, garlicky cream sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner, this dish is easy to make and bursting with flavor. Here’s a step-by-step recipe to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) large prawns or shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, depending on preference)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth if you prefer)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Prawns (Shrimp):

• If using frozen prawns, thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• Season the prawns lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Cook the Prawns:

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
• Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, add the prawns to the pan in a single layer. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the prawns, as they can become rubbery. Once done, remove the prawns from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but not browned.
• If desired, add the chili flakes for some heat.
• Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavor.
• Add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, mixing until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

4. Combine the Prawns and Sauce:

• Return the cooked prawns to the skillet, tossing them gently in the creamy sauce. Allow them to reheat for another 1-2 minutes until the prawns are heated through and coated in the sauce.

5. Serve:

• Serve the creamy garlic prawns hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
• Pair with a side of pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Tips:

• Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. You can also reduce the amount of butter and use olive oil only.
• Add vegetables: You can include sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus to make the dish even more hearty and flavorful.
• Make it spicier: Add more chili flakes or even a touch of paprika to heat it up.
• Wine substitute: If you don’t want to use wine, chicken broth or vegetable broth works as a great substitute.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve these creamy garlic prawns over a bed of linguine pasta or spaghetti for a traditional pairing.
• You can also serve them alongside steamed rice or roasted vegetables for a low-carb option.

These Creamy Garlic Prawns are a perfect balance of rich and savory flavors, making them a great choice for any occasion. Enjoy!