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6 Quick & Easy Recipes Using Prawns

Prawns are a brilliant ingredient for fast, flavour-packed meals. From spicy stir-fries to fresh salads, these 6 easy recipes make healthy dinners and quick lunches a breeze.

6 Quick & Easy Recipes Using Prawns

Easy Recipes Using Prawns

If you’re anything like me, you love having a bag of prawns in the freezer ready to turn into a fast, flavour-packed meal. They’re quick to cook, high in protein, and work brilliantly in a whole range of recipes – from fakeaway favourites to lighter bites.

Whether you’re after a healthy meal, a quick lunch, or an easy dinner that feels a bit special without the faff, prawns are always a solid choice. They soak up flavour like a sponge, pair well with spices, garlic, chilli, citrus – and they only take a few minutes to cook.

Here are 6 easy prawn recipes you can whip up in no time, using store cupboard ingredients and a few fresh bits. Ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Air Fryer coconut panko prawns

Air Fryer Coconut Panko Prawns & Peanut Sauce

Air Fryer panko prawns are lovely with a salad or even in some wraps. Peanut sauce with coconut prawns is a match made in heaven, but if you’re not a fan of peanuts, you could also mix up some sweet chilli, honey, garlic and soy sauce for a gorgeous honey chilli dressing.

Air Fryer Coconut Panko Prawns & Peanut Sauce
Slow Cooker King Prawn Risotto

Slow Cooker King Prawn Risotto

If I see king prawn on a menu I am in, before I even know what it’s served with. You can make this with any prawn, of course – even frozen – but splashing out a bit extra on the king makes it a perfect date night in. For more slow cooker recipes like this pick up a copy of my latest cookbook Slow Cooker Even Easier.
Slow Cooker King Prawn Risotto
Bored of Lunch Recipes Air Fryer Crispy Prawn Tacos

Air Fryer Crispy Prawn Tacos

If you love tacos, you have to try these. Crispy king prawns with a sweet and spicy sriracha honey glaze… a low calorie lunch or quick dinner idea.

Air Fryer Crispy Prawn Tacos
Airfryer Cajun Prawn Pil Pil

Air Fryer Cajun Prawn Pil Pil

Not the most traditional way to make this so I apologise to the Spanish in advance. I changed it up and made it with Cajun seasoning instead.

Air Fryer Cajun Prawn Pil Pil
air fryer prawn toast

Air Fryer Fakeaway – Prawn Sesame Toast

I’m obsessed with this simple air fryer prawn toast recipe, which has quickly become my go-to for a delicious and healthy fakeaway meal.

Air Fryer Fakeaway – Prawn Sesame Toast
Bored of Lunch Recipes Air Fryer Crispy Prawn Tacos

Air Fryer Sweet Chilli Prawn Cocktail Pitta

This is one of my favourite work-from-home lunches that you can turn around in a heartbeat. If you like things extra spicy, you can drizzle a little chilli oil over the top for added punch.

Air Fryer Sweet Chilli Prawn Cocktail Pitta

Quick Tips for Cooking Prawns

  • Prawns only need 2–3 minutes to cook. When they turn pink and curl into a “C” shape, they’re done.
  • Frozen raw prawns are just as good and often more affordable. Defrost in cold water for 10 minutes before cooking.
  • Prawns love bold flavours, so don’t be shy with herbs, spices, garlic, or citrus.
  • Double up on recipes like the chorizo rice or curry for meal prep wins during the week.

Why use prawns for a midweek meal?

Prawns are a brilliant ingredient to keep in your freezer for those times when you need something fast, healthy, and full of flavour. They cook in minutes, work in all sorts of dishes, and can transform even the simplest meal into something exciting.

Whether you’re using them in a spicy stir-fry, a creamy pasta, a crisp salad or a hearty curry – these easy prawn recipes are ideal for weeknights, meal prep, or even entertaining. They’re full of protein, low in fat, and naturally gluten-free, too.

Want More Easy Seafood Recipes?

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