Description

Cajun Garlic Tiger Prawns deliver an incredible seafood sensation packed with bold flavors and a hint of spice. Succulent prawns are marinated in a savory blend of Cajun seasoning, garlic, smoked paprika, and a touch of heat from cayenne pepper, then pan-seared to perfection with a buttery lemon sauce and fresh parsley. Perfect as a main course, this dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread, making it an easy yet impressive meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

Seafood

1 ½ pounds tiger prawns, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)

Seasonings & Spices

3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Finishing Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Juice of 1/2 lemon

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Instructions

Marinate the Prawns: In a large bowl, toss the tiger prawns with olive oil, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, optional cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until all prawns are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to get hot, which is key to achieving a slight char and sear on the prawns.
Cook the Prawns: Add the seasoned prawns to the skillet in a single layer to avoid overcrowding. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and develop a slightly charred edge, signaling they are perfectly cooked.
Add Butter and Lemon: Reduce the heat to low, then add the unsalted butter to the skillet. Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon and gently stir the prawns, allowing the butter to melt and coat each prawn with a luscious, tangy sauce.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the prawns for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately alongside your choice of rice, pasta, crusty bread, creamy grits, or a fresh green salad.

Notes

Adjust the cayenne pepper to your desired spice level or omit it for a milder dish.
For a smoky flavor, you can grill the prawns instead of pan-searing them on the stovetop.
This recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy grits or a crisp green salad to balance the bold spices.
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative or omit it entirely.