Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta

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If you’re looking for a pasta recipe that’s bold, spicy, and comforting, Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta is your perfect go-to dish. It combines juicy shrimp, aromatic garlic, fiery red chilli, and a swirl of olive oil to coat perfectly cooked linguine. This dish brings restaurant-level flavor into your own kitchen in under 30 minutes.

What makes this pasta stand out is its balance of spice and savor. The sauce isn’t creamy or heavy—instead, it’s light yet deeply flavorful with a gentle kick. It’s a quick dinner idea, perfect for weeknights, but elegant enough for entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta

• It cooks in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Packed with bold garlic and chilli flavor.
• Light yet satisfying—perfect for any season.
• You only need one pan and one pot!
• A great way to use fresh or frozen prawns.

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Can I Use Frozen Prawns?

Absolutely. Frozen prawns work just as well as fresh ones. Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking. This ensures a good sear and prevents a watery sauce.

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Ingredients for the Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta

Each ingredient plays a key role in balancing heat, aroma, and umami. Here’s why you need each one:

• 200g linguine: Holds the sauce well and gives the dish its satisfying body.
• 250g raw prawns, peeled and deveined: The star protein—tender, juicy, and fast-cooking.
• 3 tbsp olive oil: Forms the base of the sauce and enhances richness.
• 5 garlic cloves, finely chopped: Essential for deep flavor.
• 1 fresh red chilli, finely chopped (or more for extra heat): Adds the fiery kick.
• 1/2 tsp red chilli flakes: Extra layer of spice and color.
• 150g cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds sweetness and slight acidity.
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley: Fresh herbal note to balance the heat.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: To bring everything together.
• Zest of 1 lemon + 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the overall flavor.

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How To Make the Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 200g of linguine and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Chilli

In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 5 finely chopped garlic cloves and 1 fresh red chilli. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Cook the Prawns

Add 250g of prawns to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of red chilli flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove prawns and set aside.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

To the same skillet, add 150g of halved cherry tomatoes. Cook until they soften and release their juices, about 3-4 minutes. Add lemon zest and juice.

Step 5: Combine and Toss

Return prawns to the skillet, then add drained linguine. Toss everything together with 1/2 cup reserved pasta water. Add chopped parsley and adjust salt and pepper to taste.

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Serving and Storing Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta

This recipe serves 2 hungry people or 3 moderate portions. It’s best enjoyed hot right after cooking, but leftovers store well.

To store, place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil.

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What to Serve With Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta?

H3: Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect sidekick to soak up any leftover sauce.

H3: Mixed Green Salad

A refreshing salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the pasta’s richness.

H3: Roasted Asparagus

Adds texture and a savory, earthy note.

H3: Grilled Zucchini

Light and smoky vegetables pair nicely with spicy prawns.

H3: A Crisp White Wine

Think Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for a refreshing contrast.

H3: Chilled Sparkling Water with Lemon

Keeps the meal light and hydrating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use spaghetti instead of linguine?

Yes, spaghetti works just fine! Any long pasta will hold the sauce well.

2. Is this dish very spicy?

It has a medium heat level. Adjust chilli flakes and fresh chilli to your taste.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?

It already is! This pasta has no cream or cheese, making it naturally dairy-free.

4. What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?

You can substitute with regular tomatoes, chopped small. Roma or vine tomatoes are best.

5. Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Absolutely. Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers cook quickly and pair beautifully.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner ideas board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use extra garlic or tone down the chilli? Did you try tossing in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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Conclusion

Chilli Garlic Prawn Pasta is a dish you’ll come back to again and again. It’s bold, fresh, and easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need to impress guests with minimal effort. Want more delicious recipes like this? Check out our Mango and Dragon Fruit Chia Pudding, Vegan Breakfast Quesadillas, or Rainbow Smoothie Bowls.

For even more daily food inspiration, follow along on my Pinterest at Meals We Share.

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