There’s something irresistibly enticing about the vibrant colors and bold flavors of a Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta that instantly transports me to a sun-soaked Italian piazza. As the aroma of sautéed garlic and spicy red chillies wafts through the kitchen, I’m reminded of those special evenings spent sharing meals with loved ones, laughter filling the air.
This dish is a delightful fusion of simplicity and sophistication, perfect for elevating your weeknight dinners without the fuss. With just a handful of ingredients and only 30 minutes from prep to plate, you can impress any guest—or simply treat yourself to something delicious after a hectic day. Each tender prawn and swirl of linguine captures the essence of home-cooked comfort while daring your taste buds to dance.
In a world where fast food often reigns supreme, let this easy-to-make recipe rekindle your love for authentic home cooking. Grab your skillet, and let’s dive into this flavorful journey!
Why will you love Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta?
Simplicity at its finest: This dish requires minimal prep and can be on your table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Vibrant flavors: The combination of garlic and spicy red chillies brings a bold punch, transforming ordinary prawns into a culinary delight.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this flavorful pasta is guaranteed to impress everyone.
Nutritionally balanced: With 25 grams of protein per serving, it offers a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down.
Versatile: Feel free to swap out the prawns for your favorite seafood or even a vegetarian alternative for an exciting twist.
Elevate your dinner game with this delightful recipe that embodies the essence of homemade goodness. For more delicious recipes, check out our pasta section.
Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for this zesty delight!
- 200 g linguine – choose a high-quality brand for the best texture.
- 200 g prawns, peeled and deveined – fresh or frozen; both work well.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic enhances the flavor significantly.
- 1-2 pieces red chillies, chopped – adjust based on your heat preference.
- 400 g canned tomatoes – whole or diced for rich sauce consistency.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – use extra virgin for an aromatic touch.
- to taste Salt and pepper – essential for balancing flavors.
- for garnish Fresh basil – adds a lovely pop of color and freshness.
Dive into this delightful Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta and savor every bite!
How to Make Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta
Boil the linguine: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 200 g of linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Sauté garlic and chillies: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1-2 chopped red chillies, sautéing until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes.
Cook the prawns: Gently add 200 g of peeled and deveined prawns to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the prawns turn pink and opaque.
Add tomatoes: Pour in 400 g of canned tomatoes and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Combine with linguine: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing it well with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through and well combined.
Serve and garnish: Dish out your Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta while hot and finish with fresh basil for a lovely vibrant touch.
Optional: Sprinkle with a dash of grated Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your meals during busy weekdays! You can pre-cook the linguine and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can sauté the garlic and chillies with olive oil and refrigerate this mixture overnight—this step enhances the flavors. Finally, cook the prawns and prepare the tomato sauce, then store them separately for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine everything in a skillet, reheat gently, and add the fresh basil right before serving. This method ensures your dish remains just as delicious while saving you precious time!
Expert Tips for Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta
Perfectly cook linguine: Make sure to add it to boiling salted water. Under-cooking will affect the texture, while overcooking turns it mushy.
Fresh is best: Use fresh prawns if possible, as they offer the most flavor. Frozen prawns work too, but thaw them thoroughly for even cooking.
Balance the heat: If you prefer milder dishes, start with one red chilli and taste as you go. You can always add more spice later!
Simmer wisely: Allow your sauce to simmer just enough to combine flavors, about 5-7 minutes. Over-simmering may reduce the freshness of your ingredients.
Garnish generously: Fresh basil is not just for looks—its fragrance and flavor elevate the dish. Don’t skip this final touch!
Enjoy crafting your Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta and impress everyone at your table!
How to Store and Freeze Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Always reheat thoroughly to an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). This ensures it’s safe to eat while maintaining flavor and texture.
Airtight Storage: To keep your pasta fresh, ensure it’s completely cooled before placing it in containers, preventing condensation that can lead to sogginess.
What to Serve with Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta?
Pairing your vibrant pasta dish with the right sides can create a truly memorable meal experience.
Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread complements the richness of the sauce, making every bite a delightful experience.
Green Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the robust flavors, balancing the dish beautifully.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender, roasted asparagus brings a lovely earthy flavor, while its crispness contrasts perfectly with the soft pasta and prawns.
Lemon Risotto: Creamy lemon risotto enhances the citrusy notes of the dish, making it exceptionally rich and comforting—all in one luxurious meal.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay will enhance the seafood’s natural sweetness, shining a spotlight on the prawn’s tender, succulent texture.
Chocolate Mousse: For a sweet finish, a light chocolate mousse provides a rich, creamy dessert, perfect to round out your flavorful dining experience. Each spoonful brings a lovely contrast to the spicy notes of your meal!
Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists and modifications that will elevate your culinary experience and meet your taste preferences!
- Zesty Lemon: Add the zest of one lemon to the sauce for a refreshing, citrusy brightness that lifts the dish.
- Creamy Delight: Stir in a splash of heavy cream to your sauce for a rich, velvety texture that hugs every strand of pasta.
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra fiery intensity.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the prawns for grilled zucchini or mushrooms for a satisfying, veggie-packed alternative, perfect for meat-free nights.
- Herb Boost: Mix in a handful of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro along with the basil for an aromatic, flavorful addition.
- Whole Grain: Replace the linguine with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to cater to your dietary needs without compromising taste.
- Savory Anchovy: For a umami punch, add minced anchovy fillets to the oil during the sauté stage for a rich depth of flavor.
- Nutty Aroma: Toss in a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch and an earthy, nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Discover your favorite variation and make this Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta your own delightful creation!
Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best prawns for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting prawns, look for those that are firm, translucent, and have a mild ocean scent. Avoid any that have a strong “fishy” odor or dark spots all over, as those indicate they may be past their prime. Fresh prawns work best, but high-quality frozen ones are a great alternative too! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even results.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If the pasta seems a bit dry, add a splash of water or olive oil while reheating to bring back some moisture.
Can I freeze Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta?
Of course! To freeze, portion out the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags, being careful to remove as much air as possible. It can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw overnight in your fridge and reheat it thoroughly to 75°C (165°F) before serving.
Why did my prawns turn out tough?
Ah, that’s a common hiccup! Prawns cook very quickly, and overcooking them can lead to a rubbery texture. Aim to cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes on medium heat. If you notice they’re becoming tough, consider adjusting your cooking time next time to prevent this.
Can I adjust the spice level in Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta?
Absolutely! If you’re sensitive to heat, start with just one red chilli and taste the sauce as you go. You can always add more if you like it spicier. Alternatively, you can use a milder pepper or even omit the chillies altogether if you’re cooking for someone who prefers less spice.
Is this dish safe for my pet?
Very! While the ingredients in Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta are generally safe, avoid sharing it with pets as both garlic and onion (if added) can be harmful to them. It’s always best to enjoy this homemade dish yourself and look for pet-specific treats if you want to share the love!
Irresistibly Zesty Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 200 g of linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1-2 chopped red chillies, sautéing until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes.
- Gently add 200 g of peeled and deveined prawns to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the prawns turn pink and opaque.
- Pour in 400 g of canned tomatoes and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing it well with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through and well combined.
- Dish out your Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta while hot and finish with fresh basil for a lovely vibrant touch.