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Cajun Garlic Tiger Prawns Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 64 reviews
  • Author: Elizabeth
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course, Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun, Seafood
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Cajun Garlic Tiger Prawns deliver a sensational seafood experience with bold, spicy flavors and a buttery garlic sauce. This quick and easy stovetop dish features perfectly seared tiger prawns coated in a vibrant Cajun seasoning blend, finished with fresh lemon juice and parsley for a zesty, aromatic finish.


Ingredients

Scale

Seafood

  • 1 1/2 pounds tiger prawns, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)

Seasonings and Oils

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce and Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon wedges for serving


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Prawns: Pat the tiger prawns dry thoroughly using paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which helps achieve a good sear. In a large bowl, combine the prawns with olive oil, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything until the prawns are evenly coated with the spices and oil.
  2. Cook the Prawns: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Arrange the seasoned prawns in a single layer in the skillet, ensuring they are not crowded. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until the prawns turn pink and start to curl, then flip and cook the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes until opaque and cooked through.
  3. Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter and lemon juice directly to the skillet. Stir the prawns gently so they become coated in the buttery lemon sauce and soak up the flavors. Let the sauce simmer for a minute to meld everything together.
  4. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the prawns for a fresh herbal note. Serve the Cajun garlic tiger prawns immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrusy kick.

Notes

  • Pair these prawns with steamed rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the rich buttery sauce.
  • You can substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil to make the dish dairy-free.
  • For a smoky flavor, try grilling the prawns instead of pan-searing.
  • Ensure not to overcook the prawns to maintain their tender texture.