Description
Spanish Garlic Prawns is a classic and flavorful seafood dish featuring succulent prawns sautéed in a fragrant mixture of olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Enhanced with fresh parsley and a splash of lemon juice, this quick and easy recipe delivers a deliciously vibrant meal perfect for seafood lovers seeking an authentic taste of Spain.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 500g large prawns, peeled and deveined
Seasonings and Garnishes
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Warm the Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil and let it warm up until shimmering but not smoking.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened, being careful not to brown it to avoid bitterness.
- Infuse the Oil with Spices: Stir in the smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (optional), salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Allow the spices to gently infuse into the oil for about one minute, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Prawns (First Side): Increase the heat to medium-high and add the cleaned prawns in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the undersides develop a nice pink color and start to turn opaque.
- Flip the Prawns (Second Side): Turn the prawns over using tongs or a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully pink, opaque, and cooked through.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Citrus: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley along with the lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the prawns to a serving dish, drizzle with additional olive oil if desired, and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality prawns for the best taste.
- Do not overcook the prawns as they can become tough and rubbery; they cook quickly.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your heat preference or omit for a milder dish.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful garlic and paprika oil.
- This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking for optimal flavor and texture.
