Introduction

Creamy Prawn Linguine is a delicious dish that combines the rich flavors of creamy sauce with the delightful taste of prawns, all tossed with perfectly cooked linguine. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a restaurant-quality meal that can impress your family and friends.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Pasta Linguine – 300g
Prawns (peeled and deveined) – 250g
Garlic (minced) – 2 cloves
Fresh parsley (chopped) – a handful
Double cream – 150ml
Lemon juice – from 1 lemon
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese – for serving

Prep Time

Prep time for this dish is approximately 10 minutes.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 15 minutes, leading to a total time of 25 minutes. This recipe yields about 2-3 servings, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a lovely meal with guests.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all necessary ingredients: linguine pasta, prawns, garlic, fresh chili, parsley, cream, white wine, and lemon.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of the cooking water before draining the pasta.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large frying pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped fresh chili, cooking for about a minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Prawns

Add the prawns to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through.

Step 5: Incorporate the White Wine

Pour in the white wine and allow it to bubble and reduce for a couple of minutes, which will enhance the flavors.

Step 6: Stir in the Cream

Pour in the cream, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained linguine to the frying pan, tossing it with the sauce. If it appears too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 8: Finish with Lemon and Parsley

Zest and juice a lemon over the pasta, along with chopped parsley. Toss everything together for a fresh flavor boost.

Step 9: Serve

Plate the creamy prawn linguine and garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges, if desired. Enjoy your meal!

Notes

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to substitute prawns with another type of seafood, such as scallops or chopped fish.

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian version, consider using seasonal vegetables or mushrooms instead of prawns, and replace the cream with a plant-based alternative.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or stock to maintain creaminess.

Spice Level

Adjust the amount of fresh chili according to your preferred spice level, or omit it entirely for a milder dish.

Wine Selection

Choose a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, for the best flavor infusion into the sauce.

Cook techniques

Cooking pasta al dente

Ensure to cook the linguine until it’s al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. This technique provides the ideal texture for pasta dishes.

Sautéing prawns

Sautéing the prawns over high heat allows them to cook quickly while developing a rich flavor. This technique retains their natural sweetness.

Creating a creamy sauce

Incorporating mascarpone cheese and a splash of pasta water helps create a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta without being too heavy.

Balancing flavors with citrus

Adding lemon zest and juice brightens the dish, balancing the richness of the cream and enhancing the overall flavor profile.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while linguine is recommended, you can substitute it with other types of pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine, adjusting cooking times as necessary.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute the prawns with sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms while still using the creamy sauce.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

It’s best to serve this dish fresh as the cream may not hold up well if reheated. However, you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately in advance.

What can I use instead of mascarpone cheese?

Cream cheese or a mix of cream and sour cream can be used as alternatives, though they may alter the flavor slightly.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe does not include any spicy ingredients, but you could add chili flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.

Conclusion

This creamy prawn linguine is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients with rich flavors, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The creamy sauce enhances the sweetness of the prawns, while the linguine serves as a perfect base to soak up all the delicious flavors. Enjoy this recipe and feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Spicy Garlic Pasta

For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes and sautéed garlic to your pasta. This will create a zesty kick that complements the creamy elements beautifully.

Creamy Mushroom Linguine

Substituting prawns with sautéed mushrooms can also create a rich and earthy flavor. Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra layer of complexity.

Seafood Medley Pasta

Mix in a variety of seafood such as scallops, squid, and mussels alongside the prawns for a delightful seafood medley that elevates the dish even further.

Vegetable Linguine

For a vegetarian option, incorporate seasonal vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese can add the finishing touch.

Fresh Herb Linguine

Enhance the dish by incorporating fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This adds a bright flavor that beautifully complements the creamy sauce and seafood.