How to Make Creamy Prawn Linguine with Chilli

If you’re looking for a satisfying yet light pasta dish, this creamy prawn linguine with chilli is your new go-to. Not only is it packed with flavor from garlic, cherry tomatoes, and a touch of spice, but it also hits the sweet spot between indulgence and health. Moreover, with gluten-free pasta and low-carb options, it suits a variety of diets without sacrificing taste.

In this post, we’ll walk you through how to make this dish, explore ingredient alternatives for various diets, and offer tips to enhance flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for one or prepping for a family dinner, this is one shrimp recipe you’ll want to save.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Prawn Linguine

This dish combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the zing of chilli and the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes. Here’s why it stands out:

High-protein, low-fat: Prawns (or shrimp) are an excellent source of lean protein.
Naturally gluten-free options: Use gluten-free linguine, zucchini noodles (zoodles), or even shirataki tofu noodles.
Low-carb adaptable: Great for those watching their carb intake.
Mediterranean-inspired: Olive oil, tomatoes, and herbs give it a light, fresh profile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Flat lay of fresh ingredients for creamy prawn linguine including prawns, garlic, cherry tomatoes, chili flakes, lemon, olive oil, spinach, parsley, cream, and gluten-free linguine — All the fresh ingredients you need to make creamy prawn linguine — gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with flavor.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this healthy creamy prawn linguine:

200g raw king prawns (shrimp), peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 fresh red chilli (or 1/2 tsp red chili flakes), finely chopped
200g cherry tomatoes, halved
100ml light cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
150g gluten-free linguine (or zucchini noodles for a low-carb version)
Grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Furthermore, these ingredients are easy to find and allow room for dietary customization.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Gluten-free linguine being lifted from boiling water with a pasta server during cooking — Step 1: Cook your gluten-free linguine until al dente, or prepare zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.

Cook your gluten-free linguine according to package instructions. If you’re using zucchini noodles, skip this step until later — they only need to be warmed through.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Chopped garlic and red chilli slices sizzling in olive oil in a black skillet — Step 2: Sauté garlic and chilli in olive oil until fragrant — this builds the bold, aromatic base for the sauce.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Then add the minced garlic and chilli. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Prawns

Cooked prawns in a black non-stick skillet turning pink and opaque with golden edges — Step 3: Cook the prawns for 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque, then remove and set aside.

Next, add the prawns to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Cherry tomatoes simmering in a creamy sauce inside a black skillet with a spoon stirring — Step 4: Simmer cherry tomatoes, stir in cream or yogurt, then finish with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

In the same pan, add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened (about 5 minutes). After that, stir in light cream or Greek yogurt. Add a splash of lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Creamy prawn linguine with cherry tomatoes and sauce being mixed in a skillet with tongs — Step 5: Add cooked prawns and pasta to the sauce. Toss until everything is coated and well mixed.

Return the prawns to the pan. Toss in the cooked pasta (or zucchini noodles). Mix until everything is well coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Creamy prawn linguine in black bowl with chillies and parsley — Gluten-free prawn linguine with fresh herbs and chili heat.

Finally, plate up and top with fresh basil or parsley. Optional: sprinkle with parmesan for extra flavor.

Healthy Swaps & Diet-Friendly Variations

Gluten-Free Option:
Stick with certified gluten-free linguine or substitute with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles. Healthline offers great ideas for gluten-free swaps.

Low-Carb Option:
Use zoodles or spaghetti squash for a delicious, low-carb twist. BBC Good Food also shares top healthy food swap tips.

Dairy-Free Version:
Replace cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy yogurt like almond or oat-based options. EatingWell has helpful ingredient swap guides.

Extra Veggies:
Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a nutrient boost.

By making these adjustments, you can tailor the dish to suit nearly any diet or preference.

Nutritional Benefits

Prawns/Shrimp: High in protein, low in calories and fat, rich in selenium and B12.
Cherry Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene.
Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fat common in Mediterranean diets.
Chilli: Boosts metabolism and adds depth to the dish.
Lemon Juice: Enhances flavor and aids digestion.

These ingredients not only enhance taste but also contribute to a well-balanced meal.

Expert Tips for the Best Flavor

Don’t overcook the prawns – They cook quickly and can get rubbery if left too long.
Use fresh herbs – Basil or parsley adds a bright, aromatic finish.
Deglaze with a splash of white wine – Optional, but it brings out extra depth.
For extra spice – Add more chilli flakes or a touch of cayenne.

Above all, attention to detail and freshness of ingredients will take this dish to the next level.

Final Thoughts

This creamy prawn linguine with chilli is the perfect blend of healthy and satisfying. It’s fast enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for guests. Whether you’re aiming for gluten-free, low-carb, or simply a flavorful new pasta dish, this recipe delivers.

Make it your own with your favorite herbs or vegetable add-ins—and don’t forget to tag us if you try it!

Looking for more healthy recipes like this one? Check out our gluten-free and Mediterranean-inspired pasta recipes to fuel your day without guilt.