Name: Flash-Fried Prawns with Chilli, Lemon & Parsley Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 8 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 300g large raw prawns, butterflied; 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced or chopped; 1 tsp chilli flakes; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 2 tbsp flat-leaf parsley, chopped

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Introduction

This flash-fried prawn dish bursts with bright flavors of chilli, lemon, and fresh parsley. It’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal or an impressive appetizer. Ready in minutes, it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices.

A white plate holds eight cooked shrimp arranged in a loose circle, each shrimp showing pink and white colors with slightly charred spots and green herbs sprinkled on top. The shrimp sit in a shallow pool of golden olive oil that glistens under the light. A black spoon rests on the plate, partially under some shrimp, adding contrast. The plate is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
300g large raw prawns, butterflied

2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced or chopped
1 tsp chilli flakes

Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 tbsp flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-low heat.
Step 2: Season the prawns with salt and pepper, then set aside.
Step 3: Add the garlic to the pan and cook gently until it just starts to color, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Increase the heat to high, then add the prawns and chilli flakes.
Step 5: Stir quickly, tossing and turning the prawns to cook evenly.
Step 6: After 1 minute, pour in the lemon juice and continue tossing until the prawns turn opaque, about 1 minute more.

Step 7: Remove from heat, then sprinkle with lemon zest and chopped parsley.
Step 8: Serve immediately with crusty bread to enjoy the flavorful sauce.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add a finely chopped fresh chilli along with the flakes.

Swap flat-leaf parsley for fresh coriander or basil for a different herbal note.
Use deveined prawns to reduce preparation time and enhance eating experience.
Serve over pasta or rice to turn this into a heartier meal.

Storage

Flash-fried prawns are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Gently reheat in a warm pan or microwave, but avoid overcooking to keep them tender.

How to Serve

A white plate with seven cooked shrimp, each shrimp slightly curled and pink with white flesh showing, topped with small green herb bits and a drizzle of golden oil that pools slightly on the plate. A dark spoon rests on the plate under the shrimp. The plate sits on a wooden surface with a patterned cloth partially visible near the top left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?

Yes, frozen prawns can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

What can I serve with flash-fried prawns?

This dish goes well with crusty bread, steamed rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad for a light and balanced meal.