Combining the Sauce:
Mix the lemon juice, chopped parsley, garlic (optional), and olive oil in a small bowl. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Whisk everything together until the oil and lemon juice emulsify into a slightly thickened, cohesive sauce.
Tip: If you like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Arranging the Prawns:
Choose a baking dish that fits the prawns comfortably in a single layer. This ensures they cook evenly and stay tender.
Place the cleaned prawns in the dish, tail up. This position will help the prawns cook more evenly and retain their juices.
Pour the prepared lemon sauce over the prawns, ensuring that they are well-coated.
Baking the Prawns:
Cover the prawns with a piece of parchment paper or foil to keep the moisture in and prevent them from drying out while cooking.
Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for about 15 minutes. This time may vary slightly depending on the size of the prawns and your oven, so check for doneness. The prawns should turn pink and opaque when cooked.
Tip: Be careful not to overcook the prawns as they can become tough. Keep an eye on them after the 12-minute mark.
Serving:
Once the prawns are baked and tender, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
You can serve the prawns directly from the baking dish or transfer them onto a serving platter for an elegant presentation.
Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to enhance the freshness.
Optional: Pair with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce, or serve over a bed of rice or pasta for a more substantial meal.
Storage:
Refrigeration: Leftover prawns can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: When reheating, place the prawns in the oven at a low temperature (about 150°C / 300°F) for a few minutes to preserve their texture. Alternatively, you can briefly microwave them, but be cautious not to overheat.
Additional Tips and Variations:
Flavor Variations:
If you love spice, add chopped chili peppers or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
You can also use thyme or oregano instead of parsley for a more Mediterranean flavor profile.
Adding Vegetables:
Add thinly sliced onions, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Wine Pairing:
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay.
Make it a One-Pan Meal:
Add a side of potatoes or asparagus to the baking dish during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a full meal that requires minimal effort.
This Baked Prawns recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. By focusing on fresh ingredients and letting the natural flavors of the prawns shine, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy enough to make at home. Enjoy the bright, fresh flavors and indulge in this light, satisfying seafood dish!
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