After a particularly hectic week, I found myself yearning for a dish that was both impressive and simple to whip up. Enter the roasted butterflied prawns! With their delightful texture and the irresistible aroma of garlic and parsley wafting through the kitchen, they’ve quickly become my go-to choice for an elegant yet easy meal. Picture this: succulent prawns lightly crisped in the oven and coated in a rich garlic-parsley butter—perfect for sharing with friends or even a quiet dinner at home. Best of all, this dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal way to elevate your dining experience without the stress of complicated cooking. Whether you’re planning a gathering or just treating yourself, these roasted butterflied prawns promise a dining experience brimming with flavor and ease. Let’s get started!
Why Choose Roasted Butterfly Prawns Tonight?
Quick and Easy: You won’t spend hours in the kitchen; this dish comes together in just 30 minutes.
Flavor Explosion: The garlic-parsley butter elevates the prawns with a burst of aromatic goodness.
Impressive Presentation: Serve these beautifully roasted prawns, and watch everyone be amazed.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, pair them with a fresh salad or light pasta for a complete meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a casual night in or a special occasion, everyone will love this elegant dish!
Roasted Butterfly Prawn Ingredients
For the Prawns
• Large prawns (500 grams, defrosted) – Choose fresh or properly thawed prawns for the best flavor.
• Table salt (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the flavor of the prawns; adjust according to taste.
For the Garlic-Parsley Butter
• Garlic (3 cloves, peeled) – Adds aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is preferred for maximum taste.
• Italian parsley (small handful) – Provides freshness and beautiful color; substitute with cilantro for a twist.
• Unsalted butter (55 grams, softened at room temperature) – Binds flavors together and adds richness; using salted butter is fine but adjust salt levels accordingly.
• Black pepper (freshly ground) – Adds a subtle heat; use to taste.
• Lemon zest and juice (of 1/3 lemon, optional) – Brightens the dish with acidity; fresh lemon yields the best flavor.
For Garnish
• Chopped parsley – Enhances presentation and contributes to the dish’s freshness.
• Lemon wedges – Perfect for squeezing over the prawns, adding an extra zing to each bite.
These roasted butterfly prawns promise to be a delicious centerpiece for your next meal, bringing elegance and simplicity to your table!
How to Make Roasted Butterfly Prawns
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Prepare Prawns: Start by removing the heads if desired. Snip off any sharp and spiky parts, then butterfly the prawns by slicing the shell along the back. This allows for quick roasting and impressive presentation.
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Season Prawns: Rinse the butterflied prawns under cold water and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle with table salt, then let them sit aside for about 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
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Make Garlic-Parsley Butter: In a mortar and pestle, combine peeled garlic, a handful of chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Pound into a paste, then mix it well with softened butter, adding lemon juice and zest for a zesty kick.
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Apply Butter: Generously spread the garlic-parsley butter over the prepared prawns, ensuring they are well-coated. Place them in the refrigerator while you preheat the oven, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Roast Prawns: Preheat your oven to 230°C (450°F). Arrange the buttered prawns on a lined baking sheet, then roast for 5 to 7 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
Optional: Serve with a light pasta or a fresh salad for a delightful, complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Roasted Butterfly Prawns
Fridge: Store cooked roasted butterfly prawns in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they cool down to room temperature before sealing.
Freezer: If you need to keep them longer, freeze the cooked prawns in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the garlic-parsley butter in advance and refrigerate it, making it easy to coat your prawns just before roasting.
Roasted Butterfly Prawn Variations
Feeling inspired to put your own spin on delicious roasted butterfly prawns? Let your creativity shine with these exciting ideas!
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Olive Oil Option: Swap out butter for high-quality olive oil for a lighter, Mediterranean twist. Perfect for summer evenings!
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Herb Swap: Use fresh cilantro or basil instead of Italian parsley. This adds a vibrant and aromatic twist to the dish.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili flakes or minced jalapeño to the garlic-parsley butter. It’ll bring a delightful warmth that complements the prawns beautifully.
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Citrus Burst: Incorporate orange zest along with lemon for a unique citrus flavor, balancing sweetness and acidity for a bright taste.
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Nutty Flavor: Mix in a tablespoon of chopped toasted almonds or pine nuts into the garlic-parsley butter for a delightful crunch and nuttiness.
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Garlic Mores: For garlic lovers, increase the amount of garlic or add roasted garlic for deeper flavor. There’s nothing like that rich, sweet garlicky taste!
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Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta over the prawns before roasting for an irresistible cheesy crust.
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Sweetness: Drizzle a touch of honey or maple syrup over the prawns before roasting to balance the savory spices with a hint of sweetness.
These variations are sure to make your roasted butterfly prawns even more irresistible, inviting you to enjoy every bite!
Make Ahead Options
These roasted butterflied prawns in garlic-parsley butter are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the garlic-parsley butter up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator for the freshest flavor. Additionally, the butterflied prawns can be seasoned and refrigerated for up to 3 hours before roasting, ensuring they soak in the delicious flavors. To maintain quality, simply cover the prawns with plastic wrap once coated with the butter. When you’re ready to serve, just preheat the oven to 230°C (450°F) and roast the prawns for 5 to 7 minutes. This way, you’ll have an elegant dish on the table in no time, making your dining experience both effortless and delightful!
Expert Tips for Roasted Butterfly Prawns
• Thaw Properly: Ensure prawns are completely defrosted for even cooking; under-thawed prawns may not cook through and can be chewy.
• Watch Cooking Time: Prawns cook fast! Monitor them closely to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a rubbery texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh garlic and parsley to enhance the flavor of your garlic-parsley butter; it makes a remarkable difference in the final taste.
• Chill Before Roasting: Allow the coated prawns to rest in the refrigerator for a bit before roasting. This helps the flavors meld and provides a better texture when cooked.
• Experiment with Herbs: While this recipe calls for parsley, feel free to swap in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a unique twist on the classic roasted butterfly prawns.
What to Serve with Roasted Butterfly Prawns?
Elevate your prawn experience with these complementary sides that bring out the delicious flavors of garlic-parsley butter.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad adding crunch and brightness with vibrant greens and a zesty dressing pairs perfectly with buttery prawns.
- Garlic Bread: Crisp, toasty bread provides a delightful vehicle for wiping up the luscious garlic-parsley butter on your plate.
- Mediterranean Quinoa: This nutty and herbaceous dish adds a wholesome touch, with ingredients like cherry tomatoes and cucumber enhancing the meal’s freshness.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing spiralized zucchini keeps things low-carb, making a lovely nest for your succulent prawns.
- Crispy Roasted Potatoes: These golden bites offer a satisfying crunch, making an irresistible contrast to the soft prawns and rich butter.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of crisp Chardonnay brings out the seafood’s subtle sweetness, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Each pairing not only complements the roasted butterfly prawns but also creates a harmonious feast that delights the senses!
Roasted Butterfly Prawns Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting prawns?
When selecting prawns, choose large, firm prawns that smell fresh and sweet, without any noticeable fishy odor. If buying frozen, ensure they are well-thawed and not mushy. Visually, the shells should be intact without dark spots or signs of freezer burn—all good indicators of quality.
How do I store roasted butterfly prawns?
To store cooked roasted butterfly prawns, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Can I freeze roasted butterfly prawns?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the cooked prawns in a single layer on a lined baking sheet, and place them in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and seal tightly, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat roasted butterfly prawns without losing texture?
To reheat, avoid the microwave, as it can make prawns rubbery. Instead, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the prawns on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain that succulent texture.
Are roasted butterfly prawns suitable for people with allergies?
Roasted butterfly prawns are seafood, so they may not be suitable for those with shellfish allergies. Be cautious and check with guests about any dietary restrictions beforehand. For non-seafood alternatives, consider using chicken or tofu, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Is it safe to prepare garlic-parsley butter in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the garlic-parsley butter up to a day in advance. Simply mix the ingredients as instructed, place them in an airtight container, and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it. Allow it to come to room temperature before spreading on the prawns for easier application.
Irresistible Roasted Butterfly Prawns in Garlic-Parsley Butter
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Prawns: Remove the heads if desired, snip off sharp parts, then butterfly by slicing the shell along the back.
- Season Prawns: Rinse under cold water, pat dry, and sprinkle with salt; let sit for about 5 minutes.
- Make Garlic-Parsley Butter: Combine garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt; pound into a paste, mix with butter, adding lemon juice and zest.
- Apply Butter: Spread garlic-parsley butter over the prawns and refrigerate while preheating the oven.
- Roast Prawns: Preheat oven to 230°C, arrange prawns on a lined baking sheet, roast for 5 to 7 minutes until pink and opaque.