Cajun Prawns Spaghetti
Cajun prawns spaghetti combines juicy prawns, bold spices, and tender pasta for a quick, flavorful dinner perfect for weeknights.
Servings (Adjustable):
Calories: 562kcal
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Ingredients
- 1 pound raw colossal prawns shell and head on (535 grams)
- 1 large yellow onion divided
- 2 cloves garlic ½ tablespoon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning plus ¼ teaspoon for the heads
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
- ½ tablespoon fresh dill
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt add more to taste
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper add more to taste
- ¼ cup olive oil divided
OPTIONAL:
- 1 fresh lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash prawns and dry with paper towels. Remove the long antennae using kitchen shears.
- Separate the head and remove the shell, while keeping the tail intact, then devein the prawns.
- Season the prawns with salt, black pepper, and Cajun seasoning on both sides. Then marinate for 15 minutes in the refrigerator.
- In a heated skillet with oil, sauté half of the onions until slightly translucent, then add the garlic and the seasoned prawns.
- Cook the prawns for 3 to 4 minutes, flipping halfway through and until the prawns are opaque, turn pink or orange and form a C while stirring the onions to avoid burning. Transfer the cooked prawns on a paper lined plate and set aside.
- In the heated skillet with oil, cook the prawn heads with ¼ teaspoon Cajun seasoning until the color changes to pink or orange, about 5 minutes. Remove the cooked prawn heads and any legs that might have fallen off.
- In the same heated skillet, melt butter and sauté the remaining onions with dill and parsley.
- Add the al dente spaghetti and the cooked prawns, then gently toss until coated with the herbed butter.
- Transfer to a serving plate and serve with a side of fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
Notes
Use fresh prawns whenever possible.
If using frozen prawns, properly thaw as per package instructions before using.
Marinate prawns for at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator but not more than 30 minutes.
The cooked prawn heads may be added to the final dish or served separately, if preferred.
Use quality Cajun seasoning and check for expiration date. Do not use clumped seasonings.
Slowly add Cajun seasoning if using a newly bought and opened. New seasonings are more flavorful than when using a bottle that’s been opened for a few months.
Nutrition
Calories: 562kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 42g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 24g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 316mg | Sodium: 1874mg | Potassium: 508mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1935IU | Vitamin C: 37mg | Calcium: 168mg | Iron: 2mg
Equipment
