Grilled Prawns with Caramelized Onion and Garlic Butter
Prep
20 mins
Cook
25 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
This is one of my favorite weeknight dinners because it comes together in just 45 minutes and tastes like you've spent hours in the kitchen. The magic happens when you caramelize those onions until they're sweet and golden, then pair them with a garlicky butter that coats each succulent prawn. Prawns are packed with protein and selenium, which supports heart health, and honestly, they cook so quickly that this meal feels fancy without any fuss. The fresh lemon juice brightens everything up beautifully, and you probably have most of these ingredients already at home.
Ella x
Ingredients
- ¾ kglarge prawns(peeled and deveined, tails on)
- 2 largeyellow onions(sliced into thick rings)
- 4 tablespoonsunsalted butter
- 4garlic cloves(minced)
- 3 tablespoonsfresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoonsolive oil
- 1 teaspoonsea salt
- ½ teaspoonblack pepper
- 2 sprigsfresh thyme
- ¼ teaspoonred pepper flakes
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Pat the prawns dry with paper towels and place in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat and set aside.
Tip: Dry prawns will sear better and develop a nice caramelized crust.
- 2
Toss the sliced onions with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and arrange them on a grill-safe skewer or grill basket. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Tip: Threading thicker onion slices onto skewers prevents them from falling through the grill grates.
- 3
Place the onions on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden with charred edges.
Tip: Patient caramelization develops the onions' natural sweetness.
- 4
While the onions cook, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then remove from heat.
Tip: Don't let the garlic brown, as it will taste bitter.
- 5
Stir the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, lemon juice, fresh thyme, and red pepper flakes into the garlic butter. Season with a pinch of salt and set aside.
Tip: This compound butter adds richness and bright citrus notes to the dish.
- 6
Once the onions reach the desired caramelization, push them to the side of the grill. Place the prawns directly on the hot grill grates.
Tip: Leave space between prawns for even cooking and a better sear.
- 7
Grill the prawns for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn opaque and develop light char marks. Avoid moving them too much during cooking.
Tip: Prawns cook quickly, so monitor them closely to prevent overcooking.
- 8
Transfer the grilled prawns and caramelized onions to a serving platter. Drizzle the warm garlic butter sauce over everything and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.
Tip: The residual heat will keep the butter at perfect consistency for serving.
Recipe Variations
Get AI-powered ingredient substitution suggestions.
You Might Also Like
Beergarita
My go to drink for summer gatherings is this refreshing Beergarita, and let me tell you, it's a total crowd pleaser. The combination of tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and a cold Corona creates something that tastes way more complicated than it actually is. Lime juice is packed with vitamin C, which is great for your immune system, and the whole thing takes just five minutes to throw together. Best part? It's incredibly budget friendly since you're probably already stocking most of these ingredients anyway.
Tropical Quinoa
This tropical quinoa bowl has become my go to weeknight dinner because it comes together in just forty minutes and tastes like a mini vacation on a plate. Quinoa is one of my favorite ingredients since it's a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids, making it so satisfying and perfect for keeping energy levels steady. The combination of papaya, red bell pepper, and fresh cilantro brings vibrant flavors and colors, while the rice wine vinegar and orange zest add just the right brightness. Best part is the ingredient list is simple and affordable, yet feels fancy enough to impress anyone at your table.
Coconut & raspberry crush
Have you tried making a drink that's both refreshing and genuinely good for you? This coconut and raspberry crush is my go to when I want something special without the fuss. The best part is how quick it comes together in just ten minutes of prep. Coconut water is absolutely fantastic for hydration, packed with natural electrolytes that your body actually needs. I love combining it with tart raspberries and a hint of mint for that perfect balance of sweet and zingy. It's simple, it's delicious, and honestly, it feels like you're treating yourself to something fancy.
Reviews
Sign in to write a review.