The simplicity of garlic butter, citrus, and chili paired with the stunning size of extra colossal prawns creates an indulgent yet quick dish perfect for seafood lovers. Each prawn is seared for a slight char, then bathed in a garlic butter sauce brightened with lemon zest and a touch of chili heat, making it a dish that is equally comforting and vibrant. This recipe is perfect for a celebratory weekend dinner, a date night at home, or whenever you wish to treat yourself to something fresh, bold, and luxurious without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it with a simple salad, crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or steamed rice to complete a satisfying, elegant seafood meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 extra colossal prawns, cleaned and deveined
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter
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5 cloves garlic, finely minced
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1 red chili, finely sliced
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Zest of 1 lemon
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Juice of 1/2 lemon
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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Optional: splash of white wine for deglazing
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add minced garlic and sliced chili, sauté until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute.
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Add the extra colossal prawns, cooking 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly charred.
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Lower the heat, add butter and allow it to melt while spooning it over the prawns.
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Add lemon zest and juice, seasoning with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
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Optional: deglaze with a splash of white wine and reduce for 1 minute.
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Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
The Irresistible Elegance of Garlic Butter Extra Colossal Prawns with Chili and Citrus Zest
When you think of seafood that captures luxury, ease, and vibrant flavors all in one bite, extra colossal prawns with garlic butter, chili, and citrus zest are the perfect star. These prawns bring together the natural sweetness of premium seafood with the rich aroma of garlic butter, the freshness of lemon zest, and a subtle kick from chili. This recipe isn’t just another quick seafood dish; it is a restaurant-quality experience made approachable for your home kitchen.
In this comprehensive guide, you will learn about the unique characteristics of extra colossal prawns, why garlic butter and citrus work harmoniously with their flavors, how to pair them for an elevated meal, and how to adapt the dish for different occasions, diets, and flavor explorations.
Understanding Extra Colossal Prawns
The term “extra colossal” in seafood refers to prawns or shrimp that are exceptionally large, often with only 4-6 pieces per pound. This size offers a unique texture succulent, meaty, and satisfying, turning any dish into a special occasion.
Unlike smaller shrimp that can dry out quickly, extra colossal prawns maintain their juiciness and natural briny sweetness even under high heat, making them ideal for quick searing while building a flavorful crust. Their impressive size also makes them visually stunning for plating, instantly elevating your table whether you are hosting an intimate dinner, a family gathering, or a seafood feast.
The Allure of Garlic Butter in Seafood
Butter has long been celebrated for its richness and ability to carry flavors, while garlic enhances the savory depth, turning a simple seafood dish into a fragrant, comforting plate. For prawns, garlic butter acts as both a cooking medium and a sauce, coating each prawn in a silky glaze that highlights their natural sweetness.
Adding chili provides a gentle heat that balances the richness of the butter without overpowering the delicate flavor of the prawns. The lemon zest and juice, on the other hand, introduce brightness, cutting through the richness while amplifying the freshness of the seafood. This dynamic trio of garlic, chili, and citrus creates a balanced, layered profile that keeps each bite lively.
Benefits of Choosing This Recipe
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Quick and Accessible: The dish takes around 15 minutes from preparation to plating, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.
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Nutrient-Dense: Prawns are a lean source of high-quality protein, low in calories, and rich in selenium, iodine, and vitamin B12, making this dish a healthful option that feels indulgent.
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Visually Appealing: The vibrant colors from the chili and lemon zest, along with the golden sear on the prawns, make for a visually stunning dish that photographs beautifully for your social media and blog.
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Versatile: It can be served with crusty sourdough, steamed rice, pasta, or a fresh salad, allowing you to tailor it to your preferred meal style.
Pairing Suggestions
With Sides:
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the garlic butter sauce.
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Coconut Rice: Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the prawns.
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Herbed Quinoa: For a nutrient-packed, gluten-free option.
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Lemon Garlic Pasta: Extends the flavors while providing a comforting base.
With Drinks:
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Crisp White Wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or a dry Riesling pair beautifully, cutting through the richness while enhancing the seafood’s sweetness.
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Sparkling Water with Citrus: For a refreshing, non-alcoholic pairing.
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Lager or Pilsner: If you prefer beer, these lighter choices will cleanse the palate between bites.
Cooking Tips for Success
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Use Fresh or Properly Thawed Prawns: The fresher the prawns, the better the flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw them gently in the refrigerator to prevent mushiness.
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Dry Before Cooking: Pat the prawns dry before searing to ensure a good crust and avoid steaming.
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Do Not Overcook: Prawns cook quickly; once they turn pink and opaque, they are done.
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Control Your Heat: Use medium-high heat to get a slight char while avoiding burning the garlic.
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Finish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro enhances color and adds brightness.
Variations for Creativity
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Spicy Coconut Prawns: Add coconut milk and Thai chili for a creamy, tropical variation.
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Herbed Butter Prawns: Incorporate fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill into the butter for layered herbal notes.
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Asian-Inspired: Add ginger, fish sauce, and a splash of soy for an umami-forward profile.
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Cajun-Style: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning for a smoky, spiced alternative.
Sustainability and Sourcing
When preparing prawn recipes, it is essential to consider sustainability. Look for wild-caught or responsibly farmed prawns certified by organizations such as MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) or ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council). Choosing sustainably sourced seafood not only ensures a better ecosystem but also supports fisheries that maintain the health of prawn populations and marine environments.
Presentation Ideas
Presentation elevates a simple seafood dish into a memorable dining experience. For your garlic butter prawns:
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Serve on a platter with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
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Plate them on a bed of vibrant green salad with cherry tomatoes.
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Pair with grilled vegetables for a colorful, balanced plate.
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Use a rustic board presentation for a casual seafood night at home.
A drizzle of extra garlic butter sauce just before serving will enhance shine and aroma, creating a mouthwatering visual for your blog images.
Why Readers Will Love This Recipe
Your audience will appreciate this recipe for its:
✅ Quick and easy preparation
✅ Restaurant-quality feel without complex steps
✅ Adaptability to different diets and occasions
✅ Bold, fresh flavors with minimal ingredients
✅ Stunning plating potential for social media and family gatherings
It is a recipe that meets readers where they are whether they need a fast weeknight meal, a date night dish, or a showstopper for entertaining.
Conclusion:
The Garlic Butter Extra Colossal Prawns with Chili and Citrus Zest recipe embodies the beauty of seafood at its best: clean, bright flavors that celebrate the prawns’ natural sweetness, elevated with garlic, butter, and citrus to create a comforting yet elegant meal.
Whether you’re a home cook looking to impress guests, a seafood lover seeking a quick yet luxurious meal, or a health-conscious eater craving something flavorful without heavy sauces, this recipe will become a cherished go-to in your kitchen.
It reminds us that you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen to enjoy restaurant-level meals at home. By sourcing high-quality prawns and letting fresh ingredients shine, you bring the essence of the sea straight to your table, nourishing your body while satisfying your senses.