Garlic Butter Prawns

Featured in: Warm Rustic Bake & Tray Recipes

This dish features succulent prawns quickly sautéed in a rich garlic-infused butter sauce, enhanced by a fresh squeeze of lemon for a bright, zesty finish. The prawns are cooked until opaque and tender, tossed with parsley and a hint of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. Perfect as a light main or appetizer, this preparation highlights fresh seafood and simple aromatics for a flavorful, easy-to-make treat.

Updated on Sun, 15 Feb 2026 10:21:59 GMT
Plump prawns sizzling in garlic butter, finished with fresh lemon and parsley for a bright, savory flavor. Pin It
Plump prawns sizzling in garlic butter, finished with fresh lemon and parsley for a bright, savory flavor. | honeyravel.com

Succulent prawns sautéed in rich garlic-infused butter, finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a vibrant, flavorful dish that's perfect as an appetizer or light main. These Garlic Butter Prawns are an elegant yet incredibly simple way to bring a taste of gourmet dining to your home kitchen in under 20 minutes.

Plump prawns sizzling in garlic butter, finished with fresh lemon and parsley for a bright, savory flavor. Pin It
Plump prawns sizzling in garlic butter, finished with fresh lemon and parsley for a bright, savory flavor. | honeyravel.com

This dish captures the essence of coastal dining. By using high-quality butter and fresh garlic, you create a deep, aromatic base that complements the natural sweetness of the large raw prawns.

Ingredients

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

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 ensure the best texture, do not overcook the prawns; they are finished as soon as they turn opaque. Using both butter and olive oil prevents the butter from burning while providing a rich flavor profile.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a different flavor profile, substitute parsley with fresh cilantro. If you prefer more heat, increase the pinch of red pepper flakes to suit your palate.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these prawns with crusty bread, rice, or pasta to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. This dish pairs exceptionally well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.

Pin It
| honeyravel.com

Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a light main course, these Garlic Butter Prawns are a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly vibrant and savory meal.

Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to cook prawns for this dish?

Sauté them over medium-high heat until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side, ensuring they remain tender and juicy.

Can I substitute the parsley with other herbs?

Yes, cilantro can be used as an alternative herb to provide a different flavor profile.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook the minced garlic briefly in melted butter and olive oil, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned, about 30 seconds.

What sides pair well with garlic butter prawns?

Crusty bread, rice, or pasta are ideal to soak up the flavorful garlic butter sauce.

Is there a way to make the sauce richer?

Swirling in an extra tablespoon of cold butter at the end enhances the sauce’s richness and silkiness.

Are there any common allergens in this dish?

This dish contains shellfish and dairy, so ensure all ingredients like butter are suitable for any dietary restrictions.

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Garlic Butter Prawns

Tender prawns cooked in garlic butter and brightened with fresh lemon zest and juice.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
7 minutes
Overall Time
17 minutes
Author Tyler Morris


Level Easy

Cuisine International

Makes 4 Portions

Diet Preferences No Gluten, Low-Carb Option

What You Need

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 1/2 teaspoon salt
02 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
03 Pinch of red pepper flakes, optional

Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

Heat the fat base: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter together with the olive oil.

Step 03

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

Step 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.

Step 05

Finish with citrus and herbs: Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if desired. Stir in the chopped parsley and toss to coat evenly.

Step 06

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

What You'll Need

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

Allergy Details

Always check each item for allergens, and reach out to your healthcare provider with any concerns.
  • Contains shellfish (prawns)
  • Contains dairy (butter)
  • Verify butter is certified gluten-free if dietary restriction applies

Nutrition Info (per portion)

Nutrition info serves as a guide only—consult your doctor for specific needs.
  • Total Calories: 210
  • Fats: 13 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Proteins: 20 g

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