Prawn and Serrano Linguine

Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Serves: 2–3
Difficulty: Easy–Medium

Introduction

When you’re craving something elegant yet quick to prepare, this Prawn and Serrano Linguine delivers beautifully. The sweetness of prawns blends perfectly with the salty, delicate Serrano ham, all tied together in a silky garlic and white wine sauce. It’s a dish that looks restaurant-worthy but comes together in one pan at home.

Ingredients (for 2–3 servings)

• 250 g (9 oz) linguine (or spaghetti/fettuccine)

• 300 g (10 oz) prawns, peeled and deveined (tails optional)

• 70 g (2.5 oz) Serrano ham, thinly sliced or torn into strips

• 3–4 cloves garlic, finely sliced

• 1 dried red chili or ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

• 120 ml (½ cup) dry white wine (or chicken/vegetable stock)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Salt & freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1 – Cook the Linguine

• Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.

• Cook the linguine until al dente (about 8–9 minutes).

• Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain.

: boiling pot with linguine twirled on a wooden spoon.

Step 2 – Crisp the Serrano

• Heat olive oil in a wide skillet.

• Add Serrano strips and cook for 2–3 minutes until lightly crispy.

• Remove and set aside.

: Serrano sizzling in the pan, golden edges visible.

Step 3 – Sauté the Garlic and Prawns

• In the same pan, add butter and garlic slices. Cook gently until fragrant.

• Add prawns and chili. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until prawns turn pink.

: prawns turning pink in a garlic butter base.

Step 4 – Deglaze with Wine

• Pour in the white wine. Let it bubble for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.

• Stir gently, scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom.

: a splash of wine hitting the hot pan.

Step 5 – Combine Everything

• Return the linguine and Serrano to the pan.

• Add a splash of reserved pasta water to help emulsify the sauce.

• Toss well until the pasta is glossy and coated.

• Squeeze lemon juice, season with salt and pepper.

: tongs tossing linguine, prawns, and Serrano together.

Step 6 – Garnish and Serve

• Plate the pasta and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

• Serve immediately while warm.

: a plate of Prawn & Serrano Linguine with lemon wedge and parsley garnish.

Tips & Variations

• No Serrano? Substitute with Parma ham or thin pancetta.

• Extra creamy: Stir in 2 tbsp of double cream at the end.

• Wine-free: Use chicken or vegetable broth for the sauce.

• Make it spicier: Add more chili or a pinch of smoked paprika.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with:

• A crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

• A side salad with arugula and cherry tomatoes.

• Crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Conclusion

Prawn and Serrano Linguine is proof that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create a meal that feels indulgent and special. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a romantic evening, this dish is guaranteed to impress.