Pesto King Prawn Pasta Recipe

If you're a seafood lover seeking a quick and satisfying meal, look no further than this deliciously simple prawn pesto pasta! Imagine succulent prawns tossed with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a vibrant, aromatic basil pesto. This dish not only boasts incredible flavours but also takes mere minutes to whip up, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or a cosy dinner for two. With each bite, you'll experience the delightful combination of fresh ingredients that transform a basic meal into a gourmet experience.

Why Prawn and Pesto Make the Perfect Pair

Prawns and pesto are a match made in culinary heaven, creating a dish that is both flavourful and sophisticated. The natural sweetness of prawns is beautifully complemented by the herby, nutty, and slightly tangy notes of basil pesto. This delightful pairing ensures that every bite is a tantalising blend of textures and tastes, making it a true feast for the senses. The succulent prawns provide a meaty bite, while the creamy pesto sauce coats each strand of pasta, creating a harmonious balance that is hard to resist.

Moreover, king prawns are incredibly versatile and can absorb the flavours of the ingredients they are cooked with. When combined with pesto, their mild taste allows the vibrant flavours of basil, garlic, and Parmesan to shine through. This not only enhances the overall taste of the dish but also adds a layer of complexity that elevates a simple meal into something extraordinary. The contrasting yet complementary profiles of prawns and pesto make this duo a favourite among seafood enthusiasts and pasta lovers alike.

Additionally, the combination of prawns and pesto offers a quick and easy solution for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Both ingredients are relatively quick to prepare, ensuring that you can have a gourmet meal on the table in no time. Pesto king prawn pasta is an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The simplicity of the preparation process, coupled with the rich and satisfying flavours, makes this dish a go-to recipe for any seafood lover. So grab your apron and prepare to impress your taste buds and dinner guests alike with this easy yet mouthwatering recipe that elevates the ordinary into something truly special. Dive in and discover just how simple and satisfying cooking with seafood can be!

Estimated time

15 - 20 minutes

Ingredients

• King prawns
• Pasta (rotini, fusilli, spaghetti, linguine, etc.)
• Pesto sauce: basil, pine nuts, olive oil, parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper

Cooking Steps

1. Boil pasta with a dash of salt until al dente (you can take the package instructions as a reference). Drain, reserving some pasta water.

2. Simultaneously, blend basil, pine nuts, olive oil, parmesan, a little salt and black pepper for the pesto. Set aside.

3. Roast raw walnuts in a pan until golden and the aroma comes out. No oil is needed.

4. Add olive oil and sauté king prawns with a pinch of salt.

5. Combine cooked pasta, a bit of pasta water, and the king prawns with oil and pesto in a bowl. Mix until coated.

6. Plate your creation, garnishing with toasted walnuts. Your dish is ready to dazzle!

Related article: Why Mino Ware Belongs on Your Table

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Prawns

Cooking prawns to perfection is key to making this prawn pesto pasta truly shine. One of the most important tips is to avoid overcooking the prawns. Prawns cook very quickly, typically in just 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked prawns become tough and rubbery, losing their delicate texture and flavour. To ensure perfectly cooked prawns, keep a close eye on them as they cook. When they turn pink and opaque with a slight curl, they are done. Remove them from the heat immediately to prevent further cooking.<

Another tip is to season the prawns generously before cooking. A simple seasoning of salt and pepper can enhance their natural sweetness and bring out their best flavour. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Marinating the prawns for a few minutes in olive oil, garlic, and herbs can also infuse them with additional flavour. However, be careful not to marinate them for too long, as the acid in the marinade can start to "cook" the prawns, altering their texture.

Lastly, use a hot skillet to cook the prawns. A hot skillet ensures that the prawns cook quickly and develop a nice sear on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. Heat the oil in the skillet until it shimmers before adding the prawns. This will help to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. By following these tips, you'll be able to achieve perfectly cooked prawns every time, making your prawn pesto pasta an absolute delight.

FAQs: Unveiling the Secrets of Perfect Pesto Pasta

Q1: Do I need to cook or heat the pesto sauce?
A: Nope! Keeping it raw preserves the original flavour, vibrant green colour, and delightful aroma.

Q2: Can I mix pesto sauce with pasta in the hot pan?
A: Avoid it! Transfer your cooked pasta to a bowl before adding pesto—the heat from the pasta warms the sauce just right.

Q3: Why save pasta cooking water?
A: It's the secret weapon! Use it to ensure an even distribution of pesto, coating every noodle impeccably.

Q4: What pasta suits pesto best?
A: Go for the swirls! Short, curvy options like rotini or fusilli hug the sauce, but feel free to pick your pasta pleasure!

Q5: Can I swap king prawns for other meats or go meatless?
A: Absolutely! Choose chicken, seafood, or skip the meat for a delightful vegetarian version.

Q6: What's the exact portion for each ingredient, especially the pesto sauce?
A: It's your canvas! Adjust ingredient proportions to your taste, creating your unique secret recipe for the perfect pesto.

Q7: Which plates are best for serving Pesto King Prawn Pasta?
A: The beauty of this dish is its versatility! It can be enjoyed in a variety of styles, from classic dinner plates to something more unique. Here are some suggestions to inspire your table setting:

• Moroccan Style Ceramic Dinner Plate: Add a touch of exotic flair with a Moroccan-inspired plate. The vibrant colours and intricate patterns will complement the vibrant green of the pesto and the pops of red from the prawns.
• Hemp Leaf Pasta Dish: Create a playful and thematic presentation with a  hemp leaf pasta dish. This eco-friendly option echoes the vibrancy of the pesto and adds a touch of whimsy.
• Suikusa Mino Ware Ceramic Dinner Plate: Embrace Japanese elegance with a Suikusa Mino Ware plate. The clean lines and minimalist design will showcase the vibrant colours of the pasta and prawns, creating a sophisticated look.
• Mino Ware Jugusa Salad Bowl: Elevate your table setting with a Mino Ware Jugusa Salad Bowl. This handcrafted ceramic option boasts a timeless beauty that complements any dish, including your Pesto King Prawn Pasta.