Spaghetti with Argentine Prawns, Cherry Tomatoes and Chili

Sometimes, a dish doesn’t just fill your stomach, it lifts your spirit. This Spaghetti with Argentine Prawns, Cherry Tomatoes and Chili is that kind of meal. It’s vibrant, bold, and carries the warmth of a sun-soaked coastline with every bite. Plump, juicy prawns. Sweet bursts of cherry tomatoes. A gentle kick of chili. And all of it wrapped around perfectly twirled spaghetti. Get ready to dive into something unforgettable.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born one late summer evening when my kitchen was filled with the scent of garlic sizzling in olive oil. I had a handful of cherry tomatoes that were just on the verge of bursting with ripeness and a bag of Argentine prawns from the market. The simplicity of good ingredients is what inspired this dish, but it was the way everything came together in the pan that made it magic. It’s become one of those go-to comfort meals that always delivers.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Pasta dishes with seafood are a beloved staple in coastal Italian cuisine, particularly around southern regions like Campania and Sicily. But what gives this recipe its twist is the use of Argentine prawns, known for their tender texture and sweet, lobster-like flavor. The combination of fresh chili and cherry tomatoes is a classic Southern Italian move, adding both sweetness and heat in every bite.

Why You’ll Love Spaghetti with Argentine Prawns, Cherry Tomatoes and Chili

Because it brings restaurant-level flavor to your home kitchen without the stress. Let’s break it down:

Versatile: Perfect for weeknights or special dinners, this pasta works year-round with frozen or fresh prawns.

Budget-Friendly: Minimal ingredients mean minimal cost, especially if you catch prawns on sale.

Quick and Easy: From pan to plate in just around 30 minutes.

Customizable: Add spinach, swap pasta shapes, or toss in other seafood.

Crowd-Pleasing: Impress your guests with flavor that tastes like it took hours.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep your sauce and prawns ahead, then toss with pasta when ready.

Great for Leftovers: Store and reheat the next day and the flavors deepen beautifully.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

To make this dish truly shine, here are a few tricks I always use in my kitchen:

• Don’t overcook the prawns. They only need a few minutes and should stay plump and juicy.
• Use a pasta fork to toss everything together in the pan for maximum sauce coating.
• Slightly undercook your pasta and finish it in the sauce with a splash of pasta water.
• Don’t be shy with the olive oil. It brings everything together and adds silkiness.
• Always taste and adjust. A pinch of salt or squeeze of lemon can take it from good to great.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before we get going, gather your essentials. Trust me, having everything ready makes the process a breeze.

Large pot: For boiling your pasta to al dente perfection.

Large skillet or sauté pan: This is where all the flavor magic happens.

Colander: To drain the pasta efficiently.

Tongs or pasta fork: Helps you toss the spaghetti gently with the sauce.

Cutting board and knife: For prepping your tomatoes, garlic, and chili.

Ingredients in Spaghetti with Argentine Prawns, Cherry Tomatoes and Chili

There’s something so satisfying about a short ingredient list that still delivers bold flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Spaghetti: 400g, serves as the base that ties everything together.
2. Argentine prawns: 500g, peeled and deveined. They bring sweetness and richness to the dish.
3. Cherry tomatoes: 300g, halved. They offer juicy bursts of freshness.
4. Garlic: 4 cloves, finely sliced. It infuses the oil and sauce with depth.
5. Fresh chili: 1-2 red chilies, thinly sliced. Adds gentle heat without overpowering.
6. Extra virgin olive oil: 5 tablespoons, for cooking and finishing.
7. White onion: 1 small, finely chopped. Builds savory flavor into the sauce.
8. Fresh parsley: A handful, chopped. Brightens and balances.
9. Lemon juice: From 1 lemon, for a touch of acidity and lift.
10. Salt and pepper: To taste, essential for balancing everything.
11. Pasta water: ½ cup, reserved to help bind the sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

Not everything has to be exact. Here are a few swaps that still keep the flavor on point.

Spaghetti: Use linguine, fettuccine, or bucatini.
Argentine prawns: Regular large shrimp work well too.
Cherry tomatoes: Grape tomatoes or chopped heirloom tomatoes also work.
Fresh chili: Try red pepper flakes if you’re out of fresh chili.
Parsley: Basil or cilantro can be a fresh twist.

Ingredient Spotlight

Argentine Prawns: These prawns are wild-caught and known for their naturally red hue and lobster-like sweetness. They cook quickly and remain tender, making them ideal for pasta dishes.

Cherry Tomatoes: Small but mighty, cherry tomatoes burst with flavor when lightly sautéed, adding both sweetness and color to this pasta.

Instructions for Making Spaghetti with Argentine Prawns, Cherry Tomatoes and Chili

This is one of those recipes where your kitchen will smell amazing within minutes. Let’s get into it.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. At the same time, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   Add the garlic, onion, and chili to the skillet. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften and blister, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Drop your spaghetti into the boiling water and cook until al dente, about 8 to 9 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Add the prawns to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until just cooked through. Return the drained pasta to the pan with the prawns and tomatoes.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Add reserved pasta water and lemon juice to the pan. Toss everything together for 1 to 2 minutes so the sauce clings to the pasta.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Sprinkle in the fresh parsley, drizzle a little extra olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Plate the pasta in warm bowls, garnish with more parsley if desired, and serve immediately while everything is steaming and fragrant.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This dish thrives on contrast. The silky spaghetti wraps around plump prawns, which are juicy and sweet. Cherry tomatoes add soft pops of freshness, while garlic and chili infuse each bite with depth and a hint of heat. The olive oil coats everything in a glossy finish, making the entire dish feel luxurious yet light.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few tips can take this recipe from delicious to unforgettable:

• Use fresh prawns when possible for the best texture and flavor.
• Let the tomatoes blister slightly for deeper sweetness.
• Add the lemon juice last to keep its brightness.
• If you like it spicier, leave the chili seeds in.

What to Avoid

Even simple dishes need attention. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Overcooking the prawns. They become rubbery fast.
• Skipping the pasta water. It helps emulsify the sauce.
• Using too many tomatoes. It can turn soupy.
• Not salting the pasta water. This is your first layer of flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 580

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you’re planning ahead, cook the sauce without the prawns and refrigerate. Sauté the prawns and reheat the sauce when ready to serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove with a splash of water or broth. Avoid microwaving the prawns too long or they’ll turn rubbery.

How to Serve Spaghetti with Argentine Prawns, Cherry Tomatoes and Chili

Serve this pasta in warm bowls with a side of crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. Add a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a light touch. A simple arugula salad on the side makes a perfect fresh contrast.

Creative Leftover Transformations

If you have leftovers, don’t just reheat them. Here are some fun ideas:

• Toss with baby spinach and enjoy as a chilled pasta salad.
• Stir into a frittata with eggs for a next-day brunch twist.
• Spoon over toasted baguette slices for a bruschetta-style snack.

Additional Tips

For a little extra depth, try:

• Finishing with a touch of grated lemon zest.
• Swapping parsley with fresh tarragon or dill for a herby variation.
• Adding halved olives or capers for briny contrast.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation makes all the difference. Twirl the spaghetti into neat nests with tongs before plating. Place a few prawns right on top for that wow factor. Scatter fresh herbs and maybe a few extra chili slices. A drizzle of golden olive oil at the end adds that final restaurant-like touch.

Variations to Try

Switch it up to match your mood or pantry:

• Creamy Version: Stir in a spoonful of crème fraîche or Greek yogurt before serving.
• Veggie Add-In: Add sautéed zucchini or bell peppers for more color and texture.
• No Pasta Night: Serve the prawns and sauce over polenta or couscous.
• Spicy Kick: Add a spoon of harissa or chili paste for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use frozen prawns?
Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before cooking for best texture.

Q2: Can I make this less spicy?
Absolutely. Use half a chili or remove seeds to tone it down.

Q3: What pasta shape works best?
Spaghetti or linguine works best, but fettuccine or tagliatelle are great too.

Q4: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a bigger skillet and cook prawns in batches if needed.

Q5: Can I use canned tomatoes?
You can, but fresh cherry tomatoes give a better texture and sweetness.

Q6: How do I prevent overcooked pasta?
Cook it 1 minute less than package directions and finish it in the sauce.

Q7: What herbs pair well with this?
Parsley, basil, or dill all add freshness.

Q8: Can I add cheese?
Traditional seafood pasta skips cheese, but a touch of grated pecorino can work.

Q9: Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, just reduce or skip the chili.

Q10: Can I meal prep this?
You can prep everything ahead but cook the pasta and prawns fresh for best texture.

Conclusion

Spaghetti with Argentine Prawns, Cherry Tomatoes and Chili is one of those meals that feels fancy without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for friends or just treating yourself, it delivers bold flavor, satisfying texture, and a whole lot of joy in every bite. Give it a try and let your tastebuds take a little vacation.

Print