15-Minute Garlic Butter Prawns
This 15-Minute Garlic Butter Prawns recipe delivers a quick, flavorful, and low-carb meal, featuring succulent prawns bathed in a rich garlic-butter sauce served over fresh zucchini noodles.
For 2 servings
Pat the prawns dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season them lightly with salt and black pepper. If using fresh zucchini, spiralize or julienne them into noodles.
Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and shimmering.
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the hot skillet. Sauté for 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
Add the seasoned prawns to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque and are just cooked through. Avoid overcooking, as they can become rubbery.
Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, fresh chopped parsley, and the juice of half a lemon. Toss gently to coat the prawns in the rich sauce.
Divide the spiralized zucchini noodles between two plates. Top with the garlic butter prawns and spoon any remaining sauce over the top. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook prawns in batches if necessary to ensure they sear properly and don't steam, which can make them rubbery.
- 2Pat Prawns Dry: Excess moisture on prawns prevents a good sear and can dilute the sauce. Always pat them thoroughly dry before cooking.
- 3Garlic Control: Cook garlic just until fragrant. If it browns, it can become bitter and ruin the delicate flavor of the dish.
- 4Zucchini Noodles: For a slightly softer texture, you can quickly toss the zucchini noodles in the hot pan for 30 seconds after removing the prawns, or simply serve them raw for a crispier bite.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch more red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the finished dish for an extra layer of heat.
Herb SwapHerb Swap
Replace fresh parsley with other herbs like fresh dill, chives, or a mix of both for a different aromatic profile.
Veggie BoostVeggie Boost
Sauté some cherry tomatoes, spinach, or asparagus spears with the garlic before adding the prawns for additional vegetables and nutrients.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High-Quality Protein
Prawns are an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, and help promote satiety, keeping you feeling full longer.
Rich in Antioxidants
Garlic and red pepper flakes contain powerful antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and support overall immune health.
Low-Calorie & Nutrient-Dense
Zucchini noodles provide a low-calorie, low-carb base rich in essential vitamins (like Vitamin C and K) and minerals, making the meal light yet satisfying and nutritious.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, absolutely! Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted very dry with paper towels before cooking. Excess water can prevent a good sear and dilute the sauce.
