If you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s light, flavourful and brimming with Mediterranean vibes, this recipe for Orecchiette with Garlicky Prawns and Fresh Basil is the answer. It’s a dish that looks impressive enough to serve at a dinner party but simple enough to pull together on a busy weeknight.

One of the best things about this recipe is its balance of flavours and textures. Orecchiette, with its unique “little ear” shape, is perfect for catching the buttery, garlicky sauce, while the prawns bring a delicate sweetness that complements the fresh basil beautifully.

Recipe for 2 people as a main dish or 4 people as a starter:

Ingredients:

• 150g orecchiette
• 50g butter
• 1 crushed garlic clove
• 150g peeled raw prawns
• Shredded basil leaves, a handful 
• Lemon

Get cooking:

1. Cook the orecchiette according to the packet instructions and drain.
2. In a pan, melt the butter and cook the garlic for a couple of minutes. Take care not to brown the garlic.
3. Add the prawns and quickly cook until pink. 
4. Take pan off the heat, add the drained pasta, shredded basil leaves and a good squeeze of lemon. Mix it all together and enjoy!

What is Orecchiette?

Orecchiette is a Southern Italian pasta originating from Puglia, often enjoyed with simple ingredients that let its unique texture shine. Its little concave shape makes it ideal for holding sauces, especially light, buttery ones like this. If you can’t find orecchiette, though, any short pasta like farfalle or fusilli will work well in its place.

Final Thoughts

This Orecchiette with Garlicky Prawns & Fresh Basil is all about bringing simple ingredients together to create something truly delicious. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen but delivers a big payoff in flavour and presentation. Whether you’re cooking for one, two or a crowd, this pasta dish is sure to become a favourite.

Love pasta? Find some more recipes here.

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