Introduction to Creamy Garlic Prawns
Why Creamy Garlic Prawns are a Game Changer for Young Professionals
If you're a busy young professional juggling work and personal commitments, you know how challenging it can be to whip up something delicious and impressive in the kitchen. That's where creamy garlic prawns come to the rescue! This dish merges the richness of a creamy garlic sauce with plump, succulent prawns, creating a meal that feels like a treat but is surprisingly simple to prepare.
Imagine coming home after a long day and having just 20 minutes to create a restaurant-quality dinner. The magic happens when you combine a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients. The creamy sauce elevates the dish, allowing you to feel like a gourmet chef without much effort. Plus, the satisfaction of deglazing the pan with flavorful chicken stock helps you capture all the essence from cooking the prawns—talk about maximizing flavor!
Make sure to check out our Creamy Garlic Prawns recipe for a step-by-step guide, and transform your weeknight dinners into a culinary experience. And don’t forget to pair these prawns with a side that can soak up that fabulous creamy sauce—it’s simply irresistible! For more inspiration, visit Serious Eats for kitchen tips and tricks that can elevate your cooking game.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Prawns
Creating delicious creamy garlic prawns starts with the right ingredients—let's dive into what you'll need!
Essential Ingredients for the Garlic Marinade
For the marinade, you'll want to enhance the natural flavors of the prawns without overpowering them. Gather these essentials:
- 500g / 1lb peeled prawns/shrimp: Choose large or jumbo sizes for a satisfying bite.
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced: Fresh garlic gives the best taste.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps the garlic infuse.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: For a hint of warmth.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Just enough to enhance the flavors.
Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Now, let’s get to the good stuff—the creamy garlic sauce that will elevate your dish:
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced: You can never have too much garlic!
- 15g / 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: For a luxurious mouthfeel.
- ¼ cup chicken stock: Low-sodium for better control over the saltiness.
- 1 cup heavy/thickened cream: The star ingredient that creates creaminess.
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan: Always grate your own for optimal meltiness.
- 2 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped: For freshness and color.
With these ingredients, you're on your way to a delightful culinary experience. If you're keen to learn more about choosing quality ingredients, check out this guide on seafood selection for more tips. Happy cooking!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Creamy Garlic Prawns
Marinate the Prawns
To kick off this delectable dish, the first step is to prepare the prawns. Begin by placing 500g (1lb) of peeled, large or jumbo prawns in a bowl. Add 1 finely minced garlic clove and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the mix. For seasoning, sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Toss everything together so that the prawns are evenly coated. If you have the time, let the prawns marinate for about 20 minutes. This step allows the garlic and oil to infuse the prawns with flavor, elevating your creamy garlic prawns to another level of deliciousness. Remember to stir in ½ teaspoon of salt just before moving on to cooking.
Cooking the Prawns to Perfection
Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once the butter is sizzling, add half of your marinated prawns in a single layer. Cook them for about 1 minute on each side until they turn a lovely pink color. Once cooked, remove the prawns and repeat with the remaining half.
One tip to keep in mind: gently scrape any leftover garlic bits out of the skillet and add them to the cooked prawns. This adds an extra burst of flavor, ensuring no delicious garlic is wasted.
Creating the Creamy Garlic Sauce
With the prawns set aside, it’s time to whip up that creamy garlic sauce that will complement the dish perfectly. In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of unsalted butter and add 2 minced garlic cloves. Stir for about 30 seconds, until the garlic turns light golden.
Next, add ¼ cup of low-sodium chicken stock and let it reduce, swirling the pan to incorporate those tasty bits left over from cooking the prawns. After the stock has mostly evaporated, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and simmer on medium heat for around 2 minutes to thicken slightly. To finish off the sauce, stir in ½ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce smoothly.
Combining Prawns and Sauce
Now it’s showtime! Add your well-cooked prawns back into the creamy garlic sauce, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Give it a taste, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary. You want that balance of flavors to shine through in your creamy garlic prawns dish!
Final Touches Before Serving
Before serving, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of finely chopped parsley over the dish for a fresh pop of color and flavor. This simple garnish enhances the overall presentation and adds a bit of herbaceous zing to each bite.
Serve your creamy garlic prawns over a generous mound of mashed potatoes, pasta, or a bed of rice to soak up all that decadent sauce. Enjoy your creation! This dish not only impresses but is also a fantastic way to bring restaurant-quality flavors to your dining table at home. For more delicious seafood recipes, check out Seafood Nutrition Partnership to discover new cooking inspiration!
Variations on Creamy Garlic Prawns
Creamy Garlic Prawns with Spinach
Elevate your creamy garlic prawns by adding fresh spinach! As the prawns cook, toss in a couple of handfuls of spinach just before adding your creamy sauce. The spinach will wilt beautifully, adding not just color but also a nutritious boost. Plus, it pairs perfectly with that rich, garlicky goodness. This variation is not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some greens to your meal.
Spicy Creamy Garlic Prawns
For those who like a little heat, try incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into your creamy garlic prawns. Start with just a pinch, and adjust to your heat preference as you cook. Adding a dash of smoked paprika can also enhance the flavor profile, giving your dish a smoky depth. This zesty twist will awaken your taste buds while keeping all the comforting creaminess intact. Want to explore more? Check out recipes for spicy seafood dishes on Serious Eats.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Creamy Garlic Prawns
Choosing the Right Prawns
When preparing creamy garlic prawns, selecting high-quality prawns is essential for the best results. Opt for large or jumbo prawns as they're not only easier to handle but also remain tender and juicy. If you're buying frozen, look for ones that are sustainably sourced—this ensures flavor and freshness. For thawing, place them in a colander over a bowl in your fridge overnight to drain excess liquid.
Importance of Freshly Grated Parmesan
Using freshly grated Parmesan in your creamy garlic sauce elevates the dish significantly. Pre-packaged grated cheese can lead to clumping and doesn’t melt as smoothly. When grating your own, remember that it creates a lighter, airier result, giving you that rich flavor without overwhelming the sauce. For more tips on cheese types, check out the Dairy Farmers of Canada. Enjoy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Garlic Prawns
Perfect Sides to Pair with Creamy Garlic Prawns
When serving creamy garlic prawns, the right side dishes can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some perfect pairings:
- Garlic Bread: It’s the classic choice! Use it to soak up that luscious creamy sauce.
- Steamed Asparagus: The freshness complements the richness, adding a delightful crunch.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mash acts like a delicious sponge for the sauce.
- Wild Rice Salad: A nutty addition that brings a lovely earthiness to the dish.
Creative Serving Ideas for Entertaining
Hosting a gathering? Impress your guests with creamy garlic prawns served in style! Try these creative ideas:
- Tasty Tapas: Serve prawns in small, individual bowls with toothpicks for easy snacking.
- Pasta Feast: Toss the prawns with linguine for a creamy pasta dish that feels indulgent yet effortless.
- Crostini Delight: Spread the sauce on crisp crostini for a stunning appetizer.
- Charcuterie Board: Add the prawns alongside cheeses, olives, and turkey bacon for a savory platter.
For more serving and pairing inspirations, check out websites like Bon Appétit or Food Network for delicious side dish ideas. Enjoy making your meal unforgettable!
Time Breakdown for Creamy Garlic Prawns
Preparation Time
Getting everything ready for your creamy garlic prawns takes just 5 minutes. All you need to do is marinate the prawns with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper—easy!
Cooking Time
The actual cooking process is quick, only about 12 minutes. With your prawns cooked to perfection and that rich creamy sauce bubbling, you’ll be savoring this delicious meal in no time.
Total Time
In total, you're looking at roughly 37 minutes including a 20-minute marinating time. It’s a meal that brings fabulous flavor without demanding too much of your time in the kitchen.
For an even deeper dive into the art of cooking shrimp, check out this handy guide on Serious Eats!
Nutritional Facts for Creamy Garlic Prawns
When indulging in creamy garlic prawns, it's good to know what you're savoring. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Calories
Each serving contains approximately 490 calories, making it a satisfying yet rich choice for your meal.
Protein
Packed with 32 grams of protein, these prawns are an excellent source of lean protein, perfect for fueling your body after a long day at work.
Sodium
While delicious, keep in mind there’s about 1499 mg of sodium per serving. It’s a good idea to moderate your salt intake if you're watching your sodium levels.
For more insights on nutritional goals, you can explore resources like the USDA FoodData Central for a deeper dive into food nutrition. Enjoy your meal!
FAQs about Creamy Garlic Prawns
Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen prawns work wonderfully in this creamy garlic prawns recipe. Just ensure you thaw them properly. The best approach is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight, allowing excess moisture to drain away. Pat them dry before marinating to avoid a watery sauce.
How do I store leftovers properly?
If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s hard not to devour every last bite!), you can store the creamy garlic prawns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently—microwave on low for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring periodically to ensure even warming without overcooking the prawns.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind that the texture and richness may vary slightly. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or a plant-based alternative that thickens well, such as cashew cream.
For more tips on shrimp recipes, check out this article for creative ways to enjoy prawns!
Conclusion on Creamy Garlic Prawns
In conclusion, creamy garlic prawns elevate any dining experience with their rich flavors and comforting texture. Perfect for both special occasions and a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy experimenting with the creamy garlic sauce and make it your own! Want more seafood inspiration? Check out these delicious prawn recipes.
Creamy Garlic Prawns (Shrimp)
Equipment
- large skillet
Ingredients
Garlic marinated prawns
- 500 g peeled prawns/shrimp, large/jumbo Note 1
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Cooking prawns
- 15 g unsalted butter
Creamy garlic sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 15 g unsalted butter
- ¼ cup dry white wine or more chicken stock (Note 2)
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable stock/broth, low sodium
- 1 cup heavy/thickened cream
- ½ cup parmesan, finely grated grate your own (Note 3)
- 2 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
Marinate Prawns
- Place prawns, garlic, oil and pepper in a bowl. Toss to coat, set aside 20 minutes if time permits (no longer).
- Stir through salt just prior to cooking.
Cook prawns
- Melt 15g / 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add half the prawns and cook for 1 minute on each side, then remove.
- Repeat with remaining prawns (you shouldn't need more butter), then remove. Scrape out excess remaining garlic from pan and add to cooked prawns.
Creamy Sauce
- Add butter into skillet and let it melt. Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds or until light golden.
- Add white wine, turn up heat to high. Bring to simmer while stirring base of the pan to dissolve all the golden bits into the sauce. Cook 1 minute or until it most evaporates and the winey smell is gone.
- Add chicken stock and reduce until mostly gone and just a thin layer remains on base of skillet.
- Add cream, then simmer on medium heat for 2 minutes until reduced and slightly thickened.
- Stir through parmesan, then add the prawns back in. Taste sauce and see if more salt and pepper is needed.
- Serve sprinkled with parsley, over mashed potato or something to soak up that fabulous sauce!
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