Garlic Butter Prawns

Featured in: Comfort Food

Experience succulent prawns gently sautéed in a fragrant blend of garlic and melted butter. Brightened with fresh lemon zest and juice, this dish balances richness with vibrant citrus notes. Tossed with chopped parsley for a burst of herbal freshness, these prawns offer a light yet satisfying taste. Ready in under 20 minutes, they are perfect for quick dinners or elegant appetizers.

Updated on Sun, 15 Feb 2026 08:22:15 GMT
1. Juicy prawns sizzling in rich garlic butter, brightened with fresh lemon and parsley for a vibrant, restaurant-quality dish.  Save
1. Juicy prawns sizzling in rich garlic butter, brightened with fresh lemon and parsley for a vibrant, restaurant-quality dish. | berrycottage.com

Succulent prawns sautéed in rich garlic-infused butter, finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a vibrant, flavorful dish thats perfect as an appetizer or light main. This easy, international recipe is both pescatarian and gluten-free, coming together in just 17 minutes.

1. Juicy prawns sizzling in rich garlic butter, brightened with fresh lemon and parsley for a vibrant, restaurant-quality dish.  Save
1. Juicy prawns sizzling in rich garlic butter, brightened with fresh lemon and parsley for a vibrant, restaurant-quality dish. | berrycottage.com

This Garlic Butter Prawns recipe is a testament to how high-quality ingredients like fresh seafood and citrus can transform into an extraordinary meal. It is perfect for those seeking a quick-fix dish that doesn't compromise on depth of flavor.

Ingredients

  • Seafood: 500 g (1 lb) large raw prawns, peeled and deveined, tails on
  • Aromatics: 4 cloves garlic, finely minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Fats: 50 g (3.5 tablespoons) unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Citrus: 1 lemon (zest and juice)
  • Seasonings: 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
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Instructions

Step 1
Pat the prawns dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
Step 2
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter with the olive oil.
Step 3
Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4
Add the prawns in a single layer. Sauté for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.
Step 5
Add the lemon zest, juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in the chopped parsley and toss to coat.
Step 6
Remove from heat and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To achieve the best sear, ensure your prawns are completely dry before seasoning. For an extra velvety sauce, swirl in an additional tablespoon of cold butter at the end. Use a large skillet to avoid crowding the prawns, which helps them cook through perfectly in just 7 minutes.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This dish is naturally pescatarian and gluten-free, provided you check the butter label for potential allergens. You can substitute fresh parsley with cilantro for a different flavor profile or increase the red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat. Note that this recipe contains shellfish and dairy.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these flavorful prawns immediately with crusty bread, rice, or pasta to soak up the delicious garlic-infused sauce. They pair beautifully with a crisp, chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Each serving contains approximately 210 calories, 13g of fat, and 20g of protein.

2. Succulent garlic butter prawns cooked to perfection, with a golden sauce perfect for dipping crusty bread or serving over pasta.  Save
2. Succulent garlic butter prawns cooked to perfection, with a golden sauce perfect for dipping crusty bread or serving over pasta. | berrycottage.com

Whether you're looking for a vibrant appetizer or a light main, these Garlic Butter Prawns are a reliable crowd-pleaser. Elegant, flavorful, and incredibly fast to prepare, it is a recipe that belongs in every cook's repertoire.

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Recipe FAQ

How do you prevent prawns from overcooking?

Cook prawns on medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque to avoid toughness.

Can I substitute parsley with another herb?

Cilantro can be used instead of parsley for a different but fresh and vibrant flavor profile.

Is it necessary to use both butter and olive oil?

Combining butter and olive oil enhances flavor and prevents butter from burning during sautéing.

What’s the best way to add lemon flavor?

Use both lemon zest and fresh juice to provide bright citrus notes and a balanced tanginess.

What sides pair well with garlic butter prawns?

Crusty bread, rice, or pasta work well to soak up the buttery sauce and complement the dish.

Garlic Butter Prawns

Tender prawns cooked in garlic butter with fresh lemon and parsley, perfect for a quick flavorful meal.

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Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
7 min
Complete duration
17 min
Created by Lily Anderson


Complexity Easy

Heritage International

Output 4 Portions

Dietary considerations Without gluten, Low-Carbohydrate

Components

Seafood

01 1 pound large raw prawns, peeled and deveined, tails on

Aromatics

01 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
02 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Fats

01 3.5 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 1 tablespoon olive oil

Citrus

01 1 lemon, zest and juice

Seasonings

01 0.5 teaspoon salt
02 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
03 Pinch of red pepper flakes, optional

Directions

Direction 01

Prepare the Prawns: Pat the prawns dry with paper towels and season evenly with salt and pepper.

Direction 02

Heat the Pan: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter with the olive oil until shimmering.

Direction 03

Bloom the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned.

Direction 04

Sauté the Prawns: Add the prawns in a single layer and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and opaque throughout.

Direction 05

Finish with Citrus and Herbs: Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir in the chopped parsley and toss gently to coat all prawns.

Direction 06

Serve: Remove from heat immediately and serve with fresh lemon wedges.

Necessary tools

  • Large skillet
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Citrus zester or juicer

Allergy information

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and seek professional medical advice if you have concerns.
  • Contains shellfish (prawns)
  • Contains dairy (butter)
  • Verify butter is certified gluten-free if dietary requirement necessary

Nutritional information (per portion)

These values are estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 210
  • Fats: 13 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Proteins: 20 g