Introduction
Jamie Oliver’s Prawn Tuna Linguine is a delightful seafood pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of prawns and tuna with the perfect al dente linguine. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also brings a taste of the sea to your dining table. With its vibrant ingredients and simple preparation methods, this dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Linguine – 300g
King prawns – 200g
Tinned tuna in olive oil – 200g
Cherry tomatoes – 250g
Garlic – 2 cloves
Fresh parsley – a small bunch
Lemon – 1
Olive oil – a drizzle
Salt and pepper – to taste
Prep Time
The prep time for this delightful dish is approximately 10 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those busy evenings when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This recipe serves four, making it an ideal meal for family gatherings or dinner parties, allowing you to showcase your culinary skills without too much effort. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in this vibrant pasta dish!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Linguine
Cook the linguine in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of the cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic and Chilli
In a large frying pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sliced fresh red chilli, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
Step 3: Add Prawns
Add the raw prawns to the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Incorporate Tuna
Add the canned tuna, breaking it up lightly with a fork, and cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained linguine to the frying pan. Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to help bind the sauce, and toss well to combine all ingredients.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Ingredients
Stir in fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
Note 1: Prawn Alternatives
If fresh prawns are unavailable, frozen prawns can be used. Just ensure they are thawed before cooking.
Note 2: Tuna Quality
Opt for high-quality tuna packed in olive oil for better flavor.
Note 3: Spice Level
Adjust the amount of chilli to your taste. You can omit it for a milder dish.
Note 4: Pasta Variations
This recipe works well with other types of pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, if preferred.
Note 5: Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
Cooking pasta properly is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Always use plenty of salted water and ensure it’s at a rolling boil before adding the pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until ‘al dente,’ meaning it should have a slight bite to it.
Sautéing Ingredients
Sautéing is an essential technique for creating depth of flavor. Use a hot pan with a small amount of oil and add your ingredients, stirring frequently. This method helps to caramelize the ingredients, enhancing their natural flavors.
Adding Seafood
When adding seafood like prawns and tuna, ensure that your pan is hot to create a nice sear. Cook them quickly, as seafood can become rubbery if overcooked. Aim for a golden color and a tender texture.
Making a Sauce
A great sauce can elevate a dish. To make the sauce, use the residual flavors from sautéing your ingredients. Add stock, wine, or crushed tomatoes, and let it simmer to develop a rich flavor before combining it with the pasta.
Finishing with Fresh Herbs
Adding fresh herbs at the end of your cooking enhances the dish’s fragrance and freshness. Chop them finely and sprinkle them over the dish just before serving for maximum flavor and visual appeal.
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute linguine with other types of pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine, though cooking times may vary.
How do I know when seafood is cooked?
Seafood is properly cooked when it is opaque and flaky. Prawns should turn pink, while tuna should be cooked to your preference, typically seared on the outside with a slightly rare center.
Can I replace tuna with another type of fish?
Absolutely! Other firm fish like salmon or cod can be used as a substitute for tuna.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh herbs?
If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs can be used, but reduce the amount since they are more concentrated in flavor.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, prawn tuna linguine can be meal-prepped. Store the pasta and sauce separately to maintain texture, and combine them when ready to eat.
Conclusion
The prawn and tuna linguine is a delightful dish that brings together the ocean’s freshest flavors in a simple yet satisfying way. It’s a perfect meal for seafood lovers and can be enjoyed any day of the week. The combination of prawns and tuna, along with a hint of fresh herbs, creates a light, aromatic pasta that is both nutritious and full of taste. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but can also become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Seafood Spaghetti
A classic Italian dish, seafood spaghetti can feature various shellfish and fish, tossed with garlic, olive oil, and a splash of white wine for a rich flavor.
Creamy Clam Linguine
A comforting pasta option where fresh clams are cooked in a creamy sauce with garlic and parsley, offering a deliciously rich alternative.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Combine sautéed shrimp with linguine, lemon juice, garlic, and a sprinkle of parmesan for a zesty and refreshing dish.
Mediterranean Tuna Pasta Salad
Mix canned tuna with pasta, olives, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese for a light and vibrant pasta salad perfect for warm days or picnics.
Prawn Risotto
A creamy risotto infused with prawns and a hint of saffron can provide a comforting dish that pairs well with crusty bread and white wine.
Vegetable Pesto Pasta
For a vegetarian option, toss your favorite pasta with vibrant vegetable pesto, incorporating ingredients like spinach, basil, and nuts for a fresh, healthy meal.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Fettuccine
This dish features shrimp cooked in garlic butter, served over fettuccine, creating a luxurious yet accessible option for dinner.