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Prawns and Polenta

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Prawns and Polenta is a simple yet elegant dish combining creamy, buttery polenta with sautéed garlic prawns finished in lemon juice or white wine. A comforting, restaurant-style meal ready in under 45 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb raw prawns, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice or 1/4 cup white wine
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika
  • 1 cup polenta or coarse cornmeal
  • 4 cups water, milk, or stock (or a combination)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • Optional: 2 tbsp heavy cream

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, bring water (or stock/milk) to a boil. Gradually whisk in polenta, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
  2. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for 20–30 minutes until creamy and soft.
  3. Stir in butter, Parmesan, and salt. Add heavy cream if using. Cover and keep warm.
  4. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter. Sauté garlic and shallot (if using) until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.
  5. Add prawns and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
  6. Deglaze with lemon juice or white wine. Let simmer briefly, then season with salt, pepper, herbs, and optional spices.
  7. Spoon polenta into serving bowls. Top with prawns and pan juices. Garnish with herbs, cheese, or olive oil if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use medium or coarse-ground polenta for best texture—avoid instant polenta for richer results.
  • Don’t overcook the prawns—they turn rubbery when overdone. Cook just until pink and opaque.
  • For extra flavor, cook polenta in stock or a milk-water combo.
  • Add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a heartier meal.
  • Store leftovers separately; reheat polenta with a splash of liquid to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/prawns-and-polenta/