Spicy Chilli Prawn Pasta Recipe

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If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and comes together in a flash, this Spicy Chilli Prawn Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture tender prawns enveloped in a vibrant, spicy tomato sauce with a hint of garlic and anchovy umami, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and fresh parsley. It’s a feast for the senses that cleverly balances heat and zest without overwhelming the delicate seafood, making it a go-to weeknight winner or an impressive dish to share with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet crucial ingredients is the first step toward creating a dish that sings with flavor. Each item plays a distinct role, whether it’s the prawns bringing succulent protein, the red pepper flakes delivering that signature kick, or the fresh parsley adding a bright, herbaceous finish.

• 180 g / 6 oz fettuccine or other pasta of choice: Choose your favorite pasta shape to carry all those delicious flavors.
• 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil: For that rich, silky base to cook your prawns and infuse your sauce.
• 150 – 180 g / 5 – 6 oz medium prawns/shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star ingredient that cooks quickly and soaks up the spicy sauce beautifully.
• 2 anchovies, whole (or 1/2 tsp anchovy paste): They dissolve into the sauce adding deep, savory umami without a fishy punch.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: A small addition that packs a big punch of aromatic flavor.
• 1/4 cup white wine: Adds a subtle acidity that brightens the sauce and complements the seafood.
• 1 tsp+ chilli flakes / red pepper flakes: The key to bringing your pasta to life with the perfect amount of heat.
• 1 cup / 250 ml tomato passata: Smooth tomato base that carries all the vibrant flavors.
• 2 tsp finely grated parmesan: Adds a gentle salty creaminess and helps thicken the sauce just right.
• 1/2 lemon: The squeeze of fresh lemon juice lifts the whole dish and balances the spice.
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley, plus more to serve: An herbaceous, fresh garnish that adds color and brightness.

How to Make Spicy Chilli Prawn Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Get Ready

Start by having all your ingredients prepped and within reach because this recipe moves rapidly once you begin. Preparing your ingredients ahead helps everything flow smoothly in the kitchen.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a roaring boil and add your pasta. Cook it just shy of the recommended time—about one minute less than the package suggests—so it finishes cooking perfectly in the sauce. Before draining, save a mugful of that pasta water; it’s liquid gold for adjusting the sauce’s consistency.

Step 3: Sear the Prawns

In a hot skillet with olive oil, toss in your prawns and cook them briefly for 30 seconds—just until their color turns from translucent to opaque. This quick sear locks in their juiciness while keeping them tender.

Step 4: Build Flavor with Spice and Anchovies

Add the red pepper flakes and anchovies to the pan, stirring just long enough for the anchovies to start dissolving and the chili flakes to release their fragrant heat. Then, pour in the white wine and add the minced garlic for that intoxicating aroma.

Step 5: Let the Wine Reduce

Give it about 30 seconds for the wine to mostly evaporate, concentrating those bright but subtle acidic flavors that create balance in your sauce.

Step 6: Simmer the Sauce

Next, stir in the tomato passata, a splash of lemon juice, parmesan, plus salt and pepper to taste. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for just one minute. This gentle cooking fuses all the flavors while ensuring your prawns stay perfectly tender.

Step 7: Marry Pasta and Sauce

Return the pasta to the pan along with about half a cup of the reserved pasta water and the chopped parsley. Toss everything together carefully for about one minute until the sauce thickens and clings beautifully to every strand of pasta.

Step 8: Final Touches

Give your Spicy Chilli Prawn Pasta Recipe a taste test and adjust salt, pepper, or chili flakes as you desire. Every bite should have the ideal balance of spice, acidity, and savoriness. Serve immediately with a scattering of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Spicy Chilli Prawn Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley is a must-have garnish, adding vibrancy and a clean herbal note that contrasts wonderfully with the spicy sauce. A light dusting of extra grated parmesan provides a subtle richness that elevates the dish further.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs beautifully with light sides that complement its boldness. Think a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or garlic bread to soak up every last drop of sauce. Simple roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus also make delightful, colorful accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your Spicy Chilli Prawn Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls garnished with lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze fresh juice. Adding a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of toasted chili flakes on top can bring an elegant finishing touch that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Spicy Chilli Prawn Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Keep in mind the prawns are delicate, so it’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later to maintain their tender texture and the sauce’s vibrant flavor.

Freezing

Because of the seafood and fresh herbs, freezing is not recommended for this pasta. The texture of the prawns tends to degrade, and the flavors may become muted. It’s best to cook just enough for immediate meals and enjoy fresh.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or white wine to loosen the sauce if necessary. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the prawns tender and prevent them from overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use frozen prawns for this Spicy Chilli Prawn Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan, which could affect the sauce’s texture.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level is quite adjustable. The recipe calls for at least one teaspoon of chili flakes, but you can dial it up or down depending on your preference or even substitute with fresh chili for a different kind of heat.

What can I substitute for anchovies if I’m not a fan?

You can skip the anchovies altogether or use a splash of fish sauce or soy sauce for umami, but anchovies really add a subtle, underlying depth that’s hard to replicate.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes! Simply swap the fettuccine with your favorite gluten-free pasta and make sure your tomato passata and other ingredients don’t contain gluten.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

While you can prepare the sauce a few hours ahead, it’s best to toss it with freshly cooked pasta and prawns right before serving to keep the flavors vibrant and the texture perfect.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that delivers a punch of flavor with minimal fuss, you can’t go wrong with this Spicy Chilli Prawn Pasta Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that feels special yet comes together quickly, making it perfect for any day of the week. I promise once you try it, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to pasta recipes!

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