If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal with minimal effort, Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns are the perfect choice. The recipe offers a balance of simplicity and taste, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a relaxed dinner that doesn’t require a lot of prep work.
What Is Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns
Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns is a simple and delicious dish designed for those who want to create an exciting meal without a long list of ingredients or complicated techniques. This dish focuses on using just five core ingredients, typically including prawns, a fresh herb or spice, a fruit or vegetable, and a couple of pantry staples like olive oil or a sauce. The recipe highlights Jamie Oliver’s approach to minimalist cooking, where the ingredients shine on their own, creating a fresh, vibrant, and satisfying meal in no time.
Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns Recipe
Ingredients Needed

To prepare Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Prawns: Fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined, these are the main protein in the dish.
- Garlic: A couple of cloves, finely chopped to infuse the prawns with aromatic flavor.
- Chili (fresh or dried): Adds a subtle heat, though you can adjust the level depending on your spice tolerance.
- Coriander or Parsley: A handful of fresh herbs to brighten the dish and give it a fresh, herbal zing.
- Olive oil or butter: To cook the prawns and enhance their richness.
Equipment Needed
- Frying Pan or Skillet: A good-sized frying pan to sauté the prawns and infuse them with flavor.
- Sharp Knife: For chopping garlic and herbs.
- Chopping Board: To prepare the ingredients.
- Spoon or Tongs: To flip the prawns while cooking.
- Serving Dish: To plate and serve the prawns once cooked.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns?
- Prepare the ingredients: Start by peeling and deveining the prawns if they aren’t pre-prepared. Chop the garlic and herbs finely. If using fresh chili, slice it thinly.
- Heat the pan: In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat.
- Cook the garlic and chili: Add the chopped garlic and chili to the pan, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook the prawns: Add the prawns to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the prawns turn pink and are fully cooked through.
- Add herbs and serve: Once the prawns are cooked, toss them with the freshly chopped coriander or parsley, and serve immediately. You can add a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of flavor if desired.
Expert Tips
- Use Fresh Prawns: If possible, opt for fresh prawns as they tend to have a better texture and flavor than frozen ones. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
- Spice Level Adjustments: If you prefer a milder dish, omit or reduce the amount of chili. Alternatively, if you like more heat, feel free to add more chili or even a pinch of chili flakes.
- Don’t Overcook the Prawns: Prawns cook very quickly. Overcooking them can make them rubbery and tough. As soon as they turn pink, they are done.
- Enhance with Extra Flavors: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a splash of white wine or a drizzle of soy sauce to the pan after cooking the prawns to create a delicious sauce.
- Serve with a Side: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side, such as steamed rice, a fresh salad, or some warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns is an excellent go-to recipe for anyone who loves a quick and flavorful meal with minimal ingredients. The dish is versatile, easy to make, and packed with vibrant, fresh flavors.
With just a few key ingredients, you can create a delightful meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Try it out, and enjoy the simplicity of cooking with fewer ingredients without sacrificing taste!.
Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns

Jamie Oliver’s "5 Ingredients Prawns" recipe is delightfully simple, using only five ingredients to create a dish full of flavor. However, with such a versatile base, there are plenty of ways to tweak the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Let’s explore some easy variations to spice things up!
- Spicy Prawns: If you’re someone who enjoys a bit of heat, add a finely chopped red chili or a pinch of dried chili flakes to the garlic and prawns. You could also drizzle some sriracha or harissa sauce while cooking to elevate the heat level.
- Herbed Prawns: For an aromatic twist, swap the usual herbs with fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil. These herbs will infuse the prawns with delightful fragrance, and the combination of garlic and fresh herbs will deepen the flavor profile.
- Citrus-Infused Prawns: Adding a splash of citrus zest or juice from lemon, lime, or orange creates a refreshing contrast to the richness of the prawns. This variation adds both brightness and a zesty kick, perfect for warm weather dining.
- Creamy Prawns: If you’re in the mood for something a little more indulgent, introduce a dash of cream or coconut milk into the pan. The richness of the cream will complement the delicate prawns and give the dish a velvety texture.
- Garlic and Parmesan Prawns: To bring in a bit of Italian flair, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. The cheese adds a nutty, salty flavor that beautifully pairs with the succulent prawns.
- Curry Prawns: If you love the vibrant flavors of curry, try adding a teaspoon of curry powder or turmeric. The spices will give the dish an earthy, warm taste while complementing the prawns.
These easy variations are a great way to experiment with Jamie Oliver’s simple recipe and keep it fresh each time you make it.
Best Practices To Store Leftovers
After preparing Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns, you may end up with some leftovers. While prawns are best enjoyed fresh, it’s possible to store them properly to extend their shelf life and enjoy them the next day. Here are some best practices for storing leftover prawns:
- Cool the Prawns Quickly: To preserve the freshness and prevent bacterial growth, cool the prawns as quickly as possible after cooking. Let them sit at room temperature for no more than two hours before refrigerating them.
- Use an Airtight Container: Transfer the cooled prawns to an airtight container. This will help prevent the prawns from absorbing other odors in the fridge and maintain their flavor. If you have extra sauce from the recipe, pour it over the prawns to keep them moist.
- Refrigeration: Store the prawns in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Seafood is perishable, so it’s important not to keep them for too long. Make sure the fridge is set to the correct temperature (below 40°F or 4°C) to ensure food safety.
- Freezing for Longer Storage: If you have a large amount of leftover prawns, consider freezing them. To do so, spread the prawns out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for storage. This method helps prevent the prawns from sticking together and makes it easier to grab individual portions.
- Reheating Tips: When reheating, avoid overcooking the prawns. You can reheat them in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes or gently microwave them with a damp paper towel to preserve their texture. Adding a splash of water or broth can help prevent them from drying out.
What Goes Well With 5 Ingredients Prawns?
Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns are flavorful on their own, but they can be paired with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Here are a few ideas for what goes well with prawns:
- Rice: A simple side of jasmine rice or basmati rice works wonderfully with prawns. The light, fluffy rice soaks up the juices and sauce, making each bite full of flavor. You can also opt for coconut rice for an extra layer of richness.
- Pasta: A quick spaghetti, linguine, or any other pasta variety pairs beautifully with prawns. Toss the pasta with a little olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a delicious seafood pasta dish.
- Salads: A crisp green salad with mixed greens, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can be the perfect refreshing side to prawns. Alternatively, a citrus-based salad with arugula, fennel, and oranges pairs wonderfully with the natural sweetness of the prawns.
- Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complement the prawns nicely. The smokiness from grilling vegetables enhances the delicate seafood flavor. For a healthier option, steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach also makes a great side.
- Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or sourdough is perfect for soaking up the juices from the prawns, especially if you’ve made a flavorful sauce.
- Wine Pairings: If you’re pairing your prawns with wine, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or even a light Chardonnay complements the seafood beautifully. The acidity and freshness of these wines cut through the richness of the prawns, making each bite and sip even more enjoyable.
Conclusion
Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns recipe is a prime example of how simplicity can yield a dish full of flavor and versatility. By experimenting with different variations, you can tailor the recipe to suit any palate.
Whether you’re craving spicy heat, creamy richness, or zesty freshness, there’s a version for every occasion. Properly storing leftovers ensures you can enjoy this quick and easy meal over several days, and pairing it with the right sides and wine transforms it into a complete culinary experience. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Jamie’s prawns are sure to impress!.
FAQs
What Are The Five Main Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns Recipe?
Jamie Oliver’s 5 ingredients prawns recipe typically includes prawns, garlic, lemon, olive oil, and chili. These ingredients are used to create a simple and flavorful dish with minimal preparation time.
Can I Use Frozen Prawns In Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen prawns in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking to ensure the best texture and flavor. You can also rinse them under cold water to speed up the thawing process.
How Long Does It Take To Prepare Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns Recipe?
The preparation time for Jamie Oliver’s 5 ingredients prawns recipe is quick, typically around 10 minutes. The prawns cook in just a few minutes, making this an excellent option for a fast and flavorful meal.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns Recipe Without Chili?
Yes, you can make the recipe without chili if you prefer a milder flavor. You can skip the chili or substitute it with a dash of paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a milder spice.
What Type Of Prawns Should I Use For This Recipe?
For Jamie Oliver’s 5 ingredients prawns recipe, it is best to use large, fresh prawns or shrimp. You can also use prawns with shells on for added flavor or opt for peeled prawns if you want a quicker preparation.
How Do I Cook The Prawns In Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns Recipe?
To cook the prawns, heat olive oil in a pan, add minced garlic, and fry for a minute until fragrant. Then, add the prawns, chili (optional), and cook until the prawns turn pink and are cooked through, typically 3-4 minutes.
Can I Serve Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns Recipe With Something Else?
Yes, you can serve this dish with a variety of sides. It pairs well with rice, crusty bread to soak up the juices, or a simple green salad for a light meal.
Is This Recipe Suitable For People Following A Gluten-free Diet?
Yes, Jamie Oliver’s 5 ingredients prawns recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no gluten-based ingredients. However, if serving with sides, ensure that the bread or other accompaniments are also gluten-free.
Can I Prepare Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Prawns Recipe In Advance?
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, as prawns can become rubbery when reheated. However, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time, such as peeling and deveining the prawns, and storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
What Is A Good Substitute For Lemon In This Recipe?
If you don’t have lemon, you can substitute it with lime for a similar citrusy flavor. Alternatively, you can use a splash of white wine vinegar or a vinegar-based hot sauce for a tangy kick.