prawn scampi pasta recipe

The Best prawn scampi pasta recipe

I’ve been making prawn scampi pasta for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a classic Italian recipe that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The dish originated in Italy, where it was known as ‘scamponi,’ which translates to ‘scampi’ or ‘small shrimp.’

The original recipe called for just shrimp, garlic, and white wine, but I like to add some extra ingredients like parsley and lemon zest to give it a bit of brightness. When I cook it for my family, they always ask for seconds, and I love watching them devour the dish with glee. There’s something special about the combination of succulent prawns, garlicky flavors, and al dente pasta that makes this recipe a winner every time.

One of the best things about prawn scampi pasta is how easy it is to make. Simply sauté some garlic and prawns in butter until they’re golden brown, then add in some cooked pasta, white wine, and a sprinkle of parsley. It’s a quick and effortless meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

My kids love helping me cook this recipe because they get to crack open the prawns and watch them sizzle in the pan. As for me, I love how versatile this dish is – we can serve it as a main course or use it as a topping for salads or pizzas. Plus, it’s relatively healthy compared to other pasta recipes out there.

The prawns are packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while the garlic provides antibacterial properties. And let’s not forget about the fiber-rich pasta that fills you up without weighing you down.

Prawn Scampi Pasta

4.8 from 1063 votes

A delicious pasta dish with succulent prawns, garlic, and a creamy sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

300g spaghetti or linguine

For the Prawns

500g prawns, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp butter
1 lemon, juiced

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
4While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
6Add the prawns, salt, and black pepper.
7Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the prawns turn pink and are slightly curled.
8Pour in the white wine and cook until the liquid has reduced by half.
9Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
10Add the lemon juice and reduce the heat to low.
11Let the sauce thicken slightly.
12Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the prawns and sauce.
13Toss well to combine, adding some of the reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
14Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
15Serve the prawn scampi pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: Ensure the prawns are cooked through but not overcooked to maintain their tender texture.

Watch Video Of How Prawn Scampi Pasta Works

This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need something quick and easy on a Tuesday night. One of my favorite things about prawn scampi pasta is how well it stores – simply refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Reheating is also super simple: just microwave or sauté the leftovers with some more butter until they’re hot and bubbly. And don’t forget about serving ideas – we love serving this dish at family gatherings or potlucks because everyone loves shoveling in their fair share of garlicky goodness.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Prawn Scampi Pasta

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using a long, thin pasta shape like spaghetti or linguine – anything too short will get lost in the sauce.

Q: Can I substitute shrimp with other seafood?

Yes, you can use scallops or mussels if you prefer – just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Make sure to sauté the garlic slowly over low heat until it’s soft and fragrant – no burning allowed!

Q: Can I add other ingredients like vegetables or cheese?

Sure thing! Feel free to add your favorite veggies or grated Parmesan cheese to give the dish an extra boost of flavor.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Nope – unfortunately not, since we’re using prawns as the main protein source.

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