Prawn pasta with tomato sauce is not just a dish; it's a culinary experience that brings together the sweetness of fresh prawns with the rich flavors of a well-seasoned tomato sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for seafood lovers who want a quick yet flavorful meal. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner or a family feast, this dish will impress. Let's dive into the details of making this mouthwatering meal!
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=prawn%20pasta%20with%20tomato%20sauce" alt="Prawn Pasta with Tomato Sauce" /> </div>
Why Prawn Pasta?
Prawns are a fantastic source of protein and nutrients, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet. When combined with pasta, they not only make for a filling dish but also offer a gourmet experience at home. The vibrant colors and flavors of this dish appeal to both the eyes and the taste buds. 🍤🍝
Ingredients You'll Need
Creating this delectable prawn pasta doesn't require a long list of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
<table> <tr> <th>Ingredient</th> <th>Quantity</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Fresh prawns, peeled and deveined</td> <td>400g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Pasta (spaghetti or linguine)</td> <td>250g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Tomato sauce (canned or homemade)</td> <td>400g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Garlic, minced</td> <td>2 cloves</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Olive oil</td> <td>2 tablespoons</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Fresh basil, chopped</td> <td>¼ cup</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Chili flakes (optional)</td> <td>1 teaspoon</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Salt and pepper</td> <td>To taste</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)</td> <td>As needed</td> </tr> </table>
Important Note: Feel free to adjust the level of spice according to your taste. For a richer flavor, consider adding white wine when cooking the sauce. 🍷
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of pasta water.
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Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce
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Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
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Add tomato sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Step 3: Cook the Prawns
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Add the prawns: Stir the peeled and deveined prawns into the tomato sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the prawns turn pink and are cooked through.
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Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring that the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If it seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water.
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Step 4: Finishing Touches
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Add basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil for an extra burst of flavor.
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Serve: Plate the pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your prawn pasta while it's hot, with extra basil and chili flakes on the side if desired.
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=pasta%20with%20basil" alt="Pasta with Basil" /> </div>
Tips for the Perfect Prawn Pasta
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Use Fresh Prawns: If possible, use fresh prawns as they have a sweeter taste compared to frozen.
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Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the prawns, as they can become rubbery. They should be pink and opaque when done.
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Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, use reserved pasta water to adjust it to your desired consistency.
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Customizable Dish: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=pasta%20serving" alt="Serving Prawn Pasta" /> </div>
Nutritional Benefits of Prawn Pasta
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:
- High in Protein: Prawns are an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
- Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Prawns are a good source of Omega-3, which is vital for heart health.
- Packed with Antioxidants: Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that may lower the risk of chronic diseases.
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Pairing Suggestions
To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing this dish with:
- Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc works well with seafood.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=pasta%20with%20wine" alt="Pasta with Wine" /> </div>
Prawn pasta with tomato sauce is a delightful dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers health benefits. With its easy preparation and flavorful components, it’s a great addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish is sure to please anyone at the table! 🍽️✨
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=completed%20prawn%20pasta" alt="Completed Prawn Pasta" /> </div>