Grilled Prawns with Watercress
Prep
20 mins
Cook
12 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
There's something magical about cooking prawns on the grill, and this recipe is one of my absolute favorites to share. The combination of succulent grilled prawns with peppery watercress is simply divine, and the best part? The whole thing comes together in under 30 minutes. Watercress is incredibly nutritious, packed with vitamins and minerals that support bone health, so you're getting something truly wholesome here. I love this dish because it's elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Just a handful of quality ingredients, a hot grill, and you've got something restaurant worthy on your plate.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 24large prawns(peeled and deveined)
- 946 mlwatercress(loosely packed)
- 4garlic cloves(minced)
- 1fresh red chili(finely chopped)
- 5 tablespoonsextra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoonsfresh lemon juice
- 4 tablespoonsmayonnaise
- 3 tablespoonspanko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoonsbutter
- ½ teaspoonsea salt
- ¼ teaspoonblack pepper
- 1lemon wedges(for serving)
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Make the lemon aioli by whisking together mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and minced garlic clove in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tip: Prepare this ahead of time to allow flavors to meld.
- 2
Heat butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add panko breadcrumbs and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Tip: Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- 3
Pat the prawns dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, combine 3 tablespoons olive oil, remaining 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 3 minced garlic cloves, chopped chili, salt, and pepper.
Tip: Dry prawns ensure better searing and caramelization.
- 4
Add prawns to the marinade and toss gently to coat. Let sit for 5-10 minutes while you prepare the grill.
Tip: Don't over-marinate or the acid will start to cook the prawns.
- 5
Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Thread prawns onto skewers or arrange in a grill basket.
Tip: Skewers prevent prawns from falling through the grates.
- 6
Grill prawns for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque throughout. They should have light char marks but not be overcooked.
Tip: Overcooking makes prawns tough; they cook quickly.
- 7
While prawns cook, dress watercress lightly with remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil and a pinch of salt. Divide among serving plates.
Tip: Avoid over-dressing as watercress wilts easily.
- 8
Top each bed of watercress with 6 grilled prawns and drizzle with lemon aioli. Sprinkle generously with toasted breadcrumbs and serve with fresh lemon wedges.
Tip: Add breadcrumbs just before serving to maintain crispness.
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