Spicy Chilli Prawn Linguine Recipe

Introduction

If you love seafood pasta with a bit of a kick, this Chilli Prawn Linguine is going to be your new favorite! It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or an elegant weekend dinner. Juicy prawns, fiery chilli flakes, and a rich tomato sauce coat perfectly cooked linguine, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Serve it with a fresh rocket salad for a beautifully balanced meal.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep
• One-Pan Sauce – The tomato-chilli base is cooked in a single pan for easy cleanup
• Elegant Yet Simple – Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a fancy meal at home

Taste & Texture

• Juicy, tender prawns with a light, briny sweetness
• A rich, garlicky tomato sauce with a subtle heat from the chilli flakes
• Silky linguine that absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce

Dietary Attributes

• High in protein from prawns
• Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta
• Dairy-free with no need for cream or cheese

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 1 tsp olive oil
• 2 shallots, diced
• 1 cm piece of ginger, peeled and grated
• 1 clove garlic, crushed
• A large pinch of chilli flakes
• 400g tin chopped tomatoes
• 150g linguine
• ½ bunch flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• 150g raw peeled prawns
• Rocket salad, to serve

Notes on Quality

• Use fresh prawns if possible for the best texture and flavor
• Chopped tomatoes from a good brand will enhance the richness of the sauce
• Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note

Possible Substitutions

• Swap linguine for spaghetti or fettuccine if preferred
• Use fresh cherry tomatoes instead of canned for a slightly sweeter sauce
• Adjust chilli flakes for more or less heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the diced shallots and fry for 2 minutes until softened.
• Add the grated ginger, crushed garlic, and chilli flakes, then cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

• Pour in the chopped tomatoes and let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes until it thickens.
• While the sauce simmers, cook the linguine in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• Stir the chopped parsley and raw prawns into the tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until the prawns turn pink.
• Add the cooked linguine to the pan and toss everything together until well coated. Serve immediately with a side of fresh rocket salad.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Cook the prawns just until they turn pink to keep them tender and juicy
• Let the tomato sauce simmer properly so the flavors develop fully
• Toss the pasta in the sauce for at least a minute to help it absorb the flavors

Common Mistakes

• Overcooking the prawns can make them rubbery, so remove them from heat as soon as they change color
• Not seasoning the sauce enough—adjust salt and pepper to taste
• Adding too much chilli can overpower the dish; start with a pinch and add more if needed

Time-Saving Tips

• Use pre-peeled prawns to cut down on prep time
• Make the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days
• Cook the pasta while the sauce simmers to speed up the process

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

• Serve with a fresh rocket salad for a crisp contrast to the rich pasta
• Garlic bread or crusty baguette makes a great side
• For a full Italian-inspired meal, start with a light appetizer like Heart-Shaped Caprese Skewers

Presentation Ideas

• Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a pop of color
• Serve in a wide bowl to showcase the linguine twirls and prawns beautifully
• A sprinkle of chili flakes on top adds a final touch of heat

Beverage Pairings

• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully
• For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling lemon or lime-infused water works well

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days
• Do not freeze, as prawns can become rubbery when thawed

Reheating Methods

• Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce
• Avoid microwaving for too long as it can dry out the prawns

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

Can I use frozen prawns? Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking.
Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes! Swap the prawns for sautéed mushrooms or zucchini.

Troubleshooting

The sauce is too watery. How do I fix it? Let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken.
My prawns are tough. What went wrong? Overcooking prawns can make them rubbery. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version
• Replace prawns with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian option

Flavor Twists

• Add lemon zest for extra brightness
• Stir in a splash of white wine when cooking the shallots for added depth
• Top with grated Parmesan for a cheesy finish

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• Add grilled asparagus in the spring for a fresh touch
• Stir in roasted red peppers for a festive holiday spin

Conclusion

This spicy chilli prawn linguine is the perfect balance of heat, freshness, and comfort. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or serving it for guests, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. Try it out, and let me know how it turns out in the comments. If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out these:

• Valentine’s Day Stuffed Mushrooms – A perfect appetizer for a special night
• Mini Spinach and Feta Puffs – A great side or snack

For more recipe ideas, follow me on Pinterest: Cooking with Callie