Butterfly Garlic Butter Prawns

Butterfly Garlic Butter Prawns is a delectable seafood dish that features succulent prawns, prepared by splitting them open to expose the meat, and then cooking them in a rich and aromatic garlic butter sauce. The sizzle of garlic-kissed butter, the golden char on each prawn, and the bright squeeze of fresh lemon create a dish that is as irresistible to smell as it is to taste.

What are butterflied prawns?

Butterflied prawns, also known as butterfly prawns, are a preparation method for cooking prawns (shrimp) that involves making a cut along the back of the prawn and spreading it open to resemble a butterfly shape. This technique is often used to enhance the presentation, flavor, and cooking process of prawns. Here’s how it’s done:

1. Preparing the Prawns: To butterfly prawns, start by selecting fresh, deveined prawns with the shells still on. Using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, make a shallow incision along the back of the prawn, following the natural curve of the prawn’s body. The incision should be deep enough to expose the vein, but not so deep that you cut the prawn in half.
2. Removing the Vein: Once you’ve made the incision, use the tip of the knife or your fingers to carefully lift and remove the dark vein (digestive tract) that runs along the back of the prawn. This vein can be gritty and may affect the texture and flavor of the prawn when cooked.
3. Spreading Open: After removing the vein, gently press down on the sides of the prawn to open it up. The prawn will naturally spread open, revealing its meaty interior.

Butterflying the prawns serves several purposes:

• Even Cooking: Butterflying the prawns helps them cook more evenly since the meat is exposed and flattened. This reduces the risk of overcooking the outer layers while waiting for the center to cook.
• Enhanced Flavor Absorption: Opening up the prawns allows them to absorb marinades, sauces, and seasonings more effectively, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
• Aesthetic Presentation: The butterfly shape not only looks appealing but also creates an attractive presentation when serving.

Butterflied prawns are commonly used in various dishes, such as grilling, pan-frying, or sautéing, where the prawns are cooked quickly. They can also be stuffed with various fillings before cooking for an extra burst of flavor. This technique is especially popular for showcasing prawns in seafood appetizers and main courses.

What are Butterfly Garlic Butter Prawns made of?

Here’s a description of what this dish is made of:

• Prawns: Large, fresh prawns are the star of the dish. Butterflying them involves making a lengthwise cut along the back of the prawn to expose the meat while keeping the shell intact. By the way, prawns are a useful source of the B group of vitamins, including B12 and folate. These vitamins play an important role in energy production and replenishing red blood cells.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is minced or finely chopped to infuse the dish with its distinctive flavor and aroma.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is used to create a luscious and flavorful sauce that coats the prawns.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley are often added for a burst of color and an additional layer of flavor.
• Lemon: Lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the dish and complement the richness of the butter.
• Seasonings: Salt and pepper are used to season the prawns and the sauce.

Are butterfly shrimp healthy?

Butterfly shrimp can be a relatively healthy option when prepared and consumed in moderation. Butterfly shrimp are typically shrimp that have been split open along the back and flattened to resemble a butterfly shape. This preparation style is often used for dishes like shrimp tempura or fried shrimp. Here are some points to consider about the healthiness of butterfly shrimp:

1. Nutrient-Rich: Shrimp are a good source of lean protein, essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iodine, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients contribute to heart health, brain function, and overall well-being.
2. Cooking Method: The healthiness of butterfly shrimp can be influenced by the cooking method. Baking, grilling, or air-frying are healthier options compared to deep frying, as they use less oil and retain more of the shrimp’s natural nutrients.
3. Added Ingredients: The healthiness of butterfly shrimp can also be affected by the batter or breading used in certain recipes. Opting for lighter batters or using whole-grain breadcrumbs can improve the nutritional profile.
4. Balance: Incorporating butterfly shrimp as part of a balanced meal that includes vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can enhance its nutritional value.

It’s worth noting that the healthiness of any dish depends not only on the main ingredient (in this case, shrimp) but also on how it’s prepared and the overall context of the meal. If you’re concerned about the healthiness of butterfly shrimp, consider preparing them using healthier cooking methods and pairing them with nutrient-rich sides for a well-rounded meal.

How to make Butterflied Garlic Butter Prawns?

Carefully butterfly the prawns by making a shallow cut along the back of each prawn and removing the vein. Gently press the prawns open to create a butterfly shape.

In a bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper. Add a squeeze of lemon juice. Stir well to create a fragrant garlic herb butter mixture. Using a pastry brush or a spoon, generously coat both sides of the butterflied prawns with the prepared garlic herb butter mixture. Make sure to get the butter into the cuts you’ve made in the prawns. Preheat your pan to medium-high heat. Place the garlic butter-coated prawns directly onto the grill grates. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until the prawns turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as prawns can become tough if cooked for too long. While cooking, occasionally baste the prawns with more garlic herb butter to infuse them with extra flavor. Once the prawns are cooked through and have grill marks, remove them from the grill. Serve them hot, either as an appetizer or main course, with extra lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. Enjoy!

If you like prawns, check out these recipes:

• Chili and Lime Butterflied Prawns
• Garlic Butter Prawns

A Note from Chef Ana

These Butterfly Garlic Butter Prawns are one of the most requested appetizers at private events I cater in The Woodlands and the greater Houston area. There is something truly showstopping about a platter of golden, garlicky prawns — guests always gather around them first. My philosophy has always been about elevating classic American comfort food with proper technique and the freshest local Texas ingredients. I source as much as I can from local farms and markets in the Houston area, because fresh, seasonal produce always makes a noticeable difference.

Whether you are hosting a dinner party, planning a celebration, or simply want a wholesome meal for your family, I would love to bring this recipe — and many more — to your table. Feel free to reach out to learn more about my personal and private chef services in The Woodlands, Spring, Tomball, Conroe, and the greater Houston area.

Substitutions & Variations

As a personal chef who specializes in dietary accommodations, I always encourage my clients to adapt recipes to their individual needs. Here are some practical variations for this recipe:

• Dairy-Free: Replace the butter with high-quality extra-virgin olive oil or a plant-based butter. You will lose a bit of richness, but the garlic-herb flavor still shines.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely diced Thai chili to the garlic butter for a fiery kick that pairs beautifully with the sweet prawns.
• Oven-Broiled: If you do not have a grill, arrange the butterflied prawns on a baking sheet and broil on high for 3–4 minutes until pink and lightly charred. Watch closely — they cook fast under the broiler.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?

Yes. Thaw frozen prawns overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water for about 10 minutes. Pat them very dry with paper towels before butterflying and coating with garlic butter — excess moisture prevents a good sear and dilutes the sauce.

How do I know when the prawns are done?

Prawns cook in just 2–3 minutes per side. They are done the moment they turn pink and opaque throughout with a slight curl. Overcooking makes them rubbery, so pull them off the heat as soon as you see that color change.

Can I make the garlic herb butter ahead of time?

Absolutely. Mix the garlic butter, roll it into a log in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. Slice off rounds as needed — it works beautifully on prawns, steak, grilled vegetables, and crusty bread.

You Might Also Like

• Garlic Butter Prawns
• Buttery Garlic Steamed Clams
• Chili and Lime Butterflied Prawns