Introduction
Embark on a culinary journey with this delightful prawn dish that combines succulent prawns with a flavorful sauce, served on a bed of crunchy iceberg lettuce. This recipe is perfect for a light meal or an elegant appetizer at your next gathering. Whether you prefer fresh or cooked prawns, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
1 kg (2 lb) medium fresh cooked or raw prawns with shell and heads on (yields approximately 600 g once peeled); or 600 g (1.2 lb) fresh cooked prawns already peeled
About 3 cups iceberg lettuce, finely sliced
Lemon wedges
Finely chopped parsley (optional)
For the Sauce:
2/3 cup (165 ml) mayonnaise, preferably good quality whole egg mayonnaise
1 tablespoon ketchup or Australian/UK tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon freshly grated horseradish (or substitute 1 1/2 teaspoons jarred horseradish or 3/4 teaspoon wasabi)
Dash of Tabasco sauce (to taste)
Pinch of cayenne pepper (to taste and for a hint of color)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes (if using pre-cooked prawns)
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy this refreshing prawn dish as an appetizer or a light meal, bringing a taste of the coast to your dining table. Serve it chilled for an extra refreshing experience!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Prawns
If using whole prawns, remove the heads and peel them. Optionally, leave a few whole prawns for decorative purposes. For medium-sized cooked prawns, deveining is usually not necessary.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup (or tomato sauce), Worcestershire sauce, freshly grated horseradish (or jarred horseradish/wasabi), a dash of Tabasco sauce, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Coat the Prawns
Toss the peeled prawns in the prepared sauce until they are evenly coated.
Step 4: Prepare the Serving Dish
Place a portion of finely sliced iceberg lettuce into each serving dish. Martini glasses are a classic choice, but feel free to use any small serving vessel or small lettuce cups.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Top the lettuce with the sauced prawns, making sure they are well distributed.
Step 6: Garnish the Dish
Garnish the dish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley, if using.
Step 7: Serve
Serve immediately and enjoy your dish.
Notes
– For the best flavor, use good quality whole egg mayonnaise.
– Adjust the amount of horseradish and Tabasco sauce according to your spice preference.
– This dish can be served as an appetizer or as part of a seafood platter.
Cook techniques
Peeling Prawns
When working with whole prawns, start by removing the heads and shells. To peel, begin at the tail end and gently pull the shell away from the meat. For decorative purposes, you may leave one or two prawns whole.
Mixing the Sauce
Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, Tabasco, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. Stir until all ingredients are well blended, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency.
Tossing the Prawns
Once the sauce is prepared, gently toss the peeled prawns in the sauce, making sure they are evenly coated. This ensures that every bite is flavorful.
Arranging the Dish
For presentation, place a portion of finely sliced iceberg lettuce into each serving dish. Consider using martini glasses for an elegant touch, or small lettuce cups for a fresh, crisp option.
Garnishing
Top the sauced prawns with lemon wedges for a zesty kick and a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley for added freshness and color.
FAQ
Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen prawns, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before preparation.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover prawns and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 1-2 days for best quality.
Can I substitute any of the sauce ingredients?
Yes, you can customize the sauce. For example, you may use yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option or substitute different hot sauces to adjust the heat level.
What type of lettuce works best?
Iceberg lettuce is ideal for its crunchiness, but you can also use romaine or butter lettuce for a different flavor and texture.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This prawn salad recipe offers a delicious and refreshing dish that is perfect for gatherings or a light meal. The combination of succulent prawns and tangy sauce paired with crisp lettuce creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. With its vibrant presentation and easy preparation, it is sure to impress your guests.
Classic Prawn Cocktail
Elevate your prawn salad by serving it in cocktail glasses alongside a zesty cocktail sauce.
Asian Prawn Salad
Incorporate ingredients like sesame oil, soy sauce, and thinly sliced cucumber for an Asian-inspired twist.
Prawn Tacos
Wrap the sauced prawns in corn tortillas with fresh avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a delightful taco experience.
Prawn and Avocado Salad
Mix the prawns with creamy avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime for a wholesome salad.
Prawn and Mango Salad
Combine prawns with diced mango, red onion, and a citrus dressing for a fruity and refreshing option.
Prawn Lettuce Wraps
Serve the prawns in large lettuce leaves, topped with shredded carrots, cucumber, and a drizzle of hoisin sauce for a fun and healthy wrap.
Prawn Quinoa Bowl
Add quinoa as a base, along with roasted vegetables and the sauced prawns for a nutritious grain bowl.
Spicy Prawn Pasta
Toss the prawns with your choice of pasta, a light olive oil sauce, garlic, and red pepper flakes for a satisfying main dish.
