Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta

Are you looking for a dish that’s easy to make yet bursting with flavor? Look no further than Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta! This delightful Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines tender prawns, tangy lemon, and creamy feta for a meal that’s both fresh and comforting. Perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please your taste buds and impress your guests.

Let’s dive into the details and explore how to make this mouthwatering dish.

Introduction to Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta

Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta is more than just a seafood dish; it’s a fusion of vibrant Mediterranean flavors that come together effortlessly. With the zesty kick of lemon, the saltiness of feta, and the succulent prawns, this dish feels like a taste of summer no matter the season. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a quick weeknight meal, this dish will have you covered.

Overview of the Dish

Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta is a simple yet sophisticated recipe that features juicy prawns baked in a savory sauce made from lemon, garlic, feta, and olive oil. The prawns soak up the delicious flavors while keeping their natural sweetness. The dish is often served with fresh herbs, adding a final burst of fragrance and color.

What makes this dish even more appealing is its versatility. It’s not just about the prawns; it’s about all the ingredients that work together to create a burst of flavor in every bite. If you love Mediterranean seafood, this is the recipe to try!

Appeal and Popularity

It’s no surprise that Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta has gained popularity in recent years. Its quick preparation, fresh ingredients, and balanced flavors make it a favorite among home cooks and foodies alike. Plus, it’s perfect for those following a healthier diet or those who love fresh seafood. The dish’s appeal is in its simplicity—without being overly complicated, it packs a punch of flavor that’s sure to leave you coming back for more.

For those looking for similar Greek-inspired recipes, you can explore Greek-style garlicky shrimp with feta, which also highlights the Mediterranean flavors of feta and shrimp. This type of dish is ideal for anyone craving a light, fresh meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Ready to get cooking? Let’s move on to the ingredients and preparation that make this dish come to life!

Ingredients and Preparation

Now that you’ve got an idea of how tasty this dish is, let’s look at the ingredients and how to put it all together. Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta is simple, fresh, and comes together in just a few easy steps.

Essential Ingredients

To make this dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll be working with:

  • Prawns: Choose fresh or frozen prawns. If using frozen, just make sure they’re thawed and patted dry before cooking.
  • Lemon: The bright, tangy flavor of fresh lemon adds a burst of freshness that pairs perfectly with the prawns.
  • Feta Cheese: This creamy, salty cheese is the star of the dish. It melts beautifully over the prawns.
  • Garlic: Minced garlic will infuse the prawns with rich flavor.
  • Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps bring everything together and adds a smooth texture.
  • Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can be sprinkled on top for extra flavor and color.
  • Spices: You’ll need a bit of black pepper, salt, and optional chili flakes for a little heat.

These are the basics, but don’t be afraid to play around with the ingredients to suit your taste. Maybe add some tomatoes or olives if you’re feeling adventurous!

Preparation Steps

Now, let’s talk about how to put it all together.

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the prawns: Peel and devein the prawns, if needed. Pat them dry to ensure they bake perfectly.
  3. Mix the flavors: In a bowl, toss the prawns with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Make sure they’re well-coated.
  4. Layer the dish: Arrange the prawns in a baking dish. Crumble the feta cheese over the top. Add some lemon slices on top of the prawns for extra zing.
  5. Bake: Pop the dish in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the prawns are pink and cooked through.
  6. Garnish and serve: Once done, sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

That’s it! You’ve got a delicious, flavorful dish ready to enjoy in no time. If you’re looking for a quick Mediterranean-inspired meal, this one’s a winner.

Ready to experiment with new flavors? Keep reading to discover how you can customize this dish to suit your taste.

Variations and Customizations

If you want to add your own twist to this dish, there are plenty of ways to customize it. You can tweak the recipe to match your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Flavor Enhancements

While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, you can always add more flavor! Here are some simple ways to jazz it up:

  • Add chili flakes: Want a little heat? Sprinkle some chili flakes over the prawns before baking.
  • Herbs and spices: Fresh basil, thyme, or oregano can give the dish a more earthy flavor. You can also try adding a dash of smoked paprika for depth.
  • Tomatoes: A handful of halved cherry tomatoes adds a juicy, sweet element to the dish. Just toss them in with the prawns before baking.
  • Olives: For a salty kick, add a few green or black olives. They pair well with the feta and lemon.

These little additions can make the dish even more exciting. Feel free to get creative!

Dietary Adjustments

If you’re following a specific diet, don’t worry! This dish can easily be adapted.

  • Dairy-free: Use a vegan feta cheese if you’re avoiding dairy. There are some great plant-based options out there that melt just like the real thing.
  • Gluten-free: This dish is naturally gluten-free. Just be careful with any sides you serve to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
  • Low-carb: Skip the bread and serve with a fresh salad or cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb.

With these simple swaps, everyone can enjoy this dish, no matter their dietary preferences.

Now that we’ve covered how to tweak the recipe, let’s move on to how to serve and present this beautiful dish!

Serving Suggestions

Once your Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta is ready, it’s time to think about how to serve it. With its bright colors and bold flavors, this dish is not only tasty but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas on how to present and pair it.

Accompaniments

This dish is great on its own, but adding a side or two can make it even better. Here are some options to complete your meal:

  • Crusty bread: Serve it with a warm, crusty loaf of bread. It’s perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
  • Rice: A side of fluffy rice can help soak up all the delicious juices from the prawns.
  • Salad: A fresh salad with greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes pairs perfectly with the richness of the prawns.

These sides will complement the dish without overpowering the delicate flavors of the prawns and feta.

Presentation Tips

To make the dish look as good as it tastes, a few simple touches can go a long way:

  • Garnish: After baking, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or dill over the top. It adds a pop of color and freshness.
  • Lemon wedges: Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side. They add a bright touch and allow guests to squeeze more lemon on their meal if they like.
  • Plating: Arrange the prawns neatly on a plate, with a little feta crumbled on top for extra flair.

Presentation matters! These little details will make your dish look even more inviting.

Now that you know how to serve and present this dish, let’s take a look at the nutritional benefits. Ready to find out how healthy this meal really is?

Nutritional Information

Before you dive into this tasty dish, let’s take a quick look at the nutritional benefits. Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta is not only delicious, but it also provides plenty of healthy nutrients. Here’s what you can expect.

Caloric and Nutrient Breakdown

This dish is low in calories but high in protein. Here’s a rough breakdown:

  • Prawns: These are a great source of lean protein. They’re low in fat but rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium.
  • Feta cheese: While rich in calcium and protein, feta is also fairly high in fat. But it’s a good fat, making it a healthy choice in moderation.
  • Lemon: Full of vitamin C, lemons help boost your immune system and add that zesty tang to the dish.

This dish is great for anyone looking to get in a healthy dose of protein while keeping the calories in check. It’s light, filling, and nutrient-packed.

Health Benefits

Not only is this meal healthy, but it also has some great health benefits:

  • Good for the heart: The prawns are full of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to promote heart health.
  • Supports digestion: The fresh lemon helps with digestion and keeps things running smoothly.
  • Boosts immunity: Thanks to the vitamin C from the lemon and the minerals in prawns, this dish is a great immune booster.

So, not only does Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta taste amazing, but it’s also a fantastic choice for your health!

Feeling inspired to give it a try? Next up, we’ll answer some common questions about this recipe.

FAQs

Got questions? Don’t worry! Here are some of the most common ones about Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta. Let’s clear up any confusion and get you cooking!

Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use frozen prawns. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry to remove any excess water. This will help them bake properly and soak up all the delicious flavors.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you don’t have feta, there are a few good alternatives. You can try goat cheese for a tangy flavor, or ricotta for a creamier texture. If you’re vegan, there are plenty of dairy-free feta options available, so you can still enjoy this dish!

How do I prevent the prawns from becoming rubbery?

The key is not to overcook the prawns. They cook quickly—usually in about 12-15 minutes. When they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. Check them often, and you’ll have perfectly tender prawns every time!

Got more questions? Feel free to ask! Now, let’s wrap things up with a final summary of this tasty dish.

Conclusion

Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta is a simple, delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It combines fresh prawns, zesty lemon, and creamy feta into a meal that’s full of flavor and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this dish is sure to impress.

With its quick prep time and healthy ingredients, it’s an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special treat. Plus, you can customize it to fit your tastes, whether you like it spicy, herby, or extra cheesy!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy this mouthwatering Mediterranean-inspired dish.

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Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta

Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta


  • Author: Olivia Hartwellen
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Fresh prawns, zesty lemon, and creamy feta come together in this Mediterranean-inspired dish. Perfect for a quick yet flavorful dinner, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

 


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) large prawns, peeled and deveined
  • 1 lemon, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
  • 3 oz (85g) feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Optional: 1/4 tsp chili flakes
  • Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a mixing bowl, toss prawns with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper (and chili flakes if desired). Ensure prawns are well coated.
  • Arrange the seasoned prawns in a single layer in a baking dish.
  • Crumble feta cheese evenly over the prawns. Lay lemon slices on top for added flavor.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes or until prawns turn pink and opaque.
  • Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley or dill, and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

  • Do Not Overcook the Prawns: Keep an eye on the prawns while baking; they cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re ready!
  • Pat the Prawns Dry: Whether using fresh or thawed prawns, ensure they’re completely dry before seasoning. This helps them absorb flavors and bake evenly.
  • Customize for Extra Flavor: Add cherry tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist, or sprinkle chili flakes for a spicy kick. Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or dill adds freshness and color.
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 15 min

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