Introduction

Garlic Lemon Butter Linguine with Prawns is a restaurant-quality, home-cooked pasta dish that’s both decadent and refreshing. Succulent prawns are sautéed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, then tossed with perfectly cooked linguine, a touch of lemon zest and juice, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, date nights, or special occasions, as it’s impressive but surprisingly easy to prepare. The garlic butter sauce clings to every strand of linguine, while the lemon adds brightness, making each bite rich, tangy, and satisfying.

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❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect combination of comfort and elegance. The prawns are juicy and flavorful, the linguine is al dente, and the sauce is rich without being heavy. The lemon and parsley bring freshness that keeps the dish from feeling too indulgent. It’s quick, uses simple ingredients, and always feels like a treat, even on a busy weeknight.

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🌟 Why This is a Must-Try Dish

• Bursting with flavor: Garlic, butter, and lemon perfectly complement the prawns.
• Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes.
• Healthy twist: Prawns are low in calories and high in protein.
• Elegant presentation: Perfect for entertaining guests.
• Comfort food elevated: Simple ingredients transformed into a gourmet experience.

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🕒 Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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🍽 Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~480 per serving

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📌 Course & Cuisine

• Course: Main Dish / Dinner
• Cuisine: Italian / Seafood

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Linguine & Prawns:

• 12 oz (340 g) linguine
• 1 lb (450 g) large prawns, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Optional Garnish:

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Lemon wedges

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Prawns

1. Season prawns with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add prawns and sauté for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
2. Add butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in lemon juice and zest.

Step 4: Combine Linguine and Prawns

1. Add cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
2. Add prawns back to the skillet.
3. If needed, add reserved pasta water 1–2 tbsp at a time to loosen the sauce.
4. Stir in chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Serve

• Plate linguine and prawns, drizzle with extra butter if desired.
• Garnish with parsley, Parmesan cheese, and lemon wedges.

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🍴 How to Serve

• Serve immediately while hot.
• Pair with:
  • Garlic bread or a fresh baguette
  • Steamed or roasted vegetables
  • A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

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💡 Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook the prawns—they cook very quickly and can become rubbery.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
• Reserve pasta water—it helps loosen the sauce for perfect coating.
• Red pepper flakes are optional but add a subtle heat.

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🔄 Variations

• Creamy version: Add 1/4 cup heavy cream to the sauce.
• Vegetable-packed: Include asparagus, spinach, or cherry tomatoes.
• Spicy garlic butter: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
• Protein swap: Use scallops, chicken, or salmon instead of prawns.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta.

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❄️ Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: Not recommended; pasta and sauce lose texture when frozen.
• Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or water.

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🛠 Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs or pasta fork
• Knife and cutting board

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❓ FAQ

Q1: Can I use frozen prawns?

• Yes, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?

• You can prep ingredients and make the sauce in advance, but cook pasta and prawns fresh.

Q3: Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?

• Fresh lemon juice is preferred for bright flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch.

Q4: Can I use shrimp instead of prawns?

• Yes, shrimp work perfectly with this recipe.

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📝 Conclusion

Garlic Lemon Butter Linguine with Prawns is a quick, elegant, and flavorful dish that combines the richness of butter and garlic with the freshness of lemon and parsley. Juicy prawns and perfectly cooked linguine make it a perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion meal. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves Italian flavors, seafood, and easy gourmet meals.