Garlic Butter Prawn Skewers with Lime are the perfect blend of savory, buttery goodness and fresh citrus zing. This dish is quick to prepare and full of rich flavors, making it an ideal appetizer or main course for summer cookouts, dinner parties, or casual family meals. The combination of succulent prawns, aromatic garlic, melted butter, and tangy lime creates an irresistible dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes and drinks.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to prepare these delicious skewers, share essential tips for grilling prawns perfectly, and offer variations and pairing suggestions to make your dish even more special.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Prawn Skewers with Lime

1. Bursting with Flavor

The garlic butter sauce infuses the prawns with a rich, savory taste, while the lime adds a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness, balancing the dish perfectly.

2. Quick and Easy to Prepare

With a total prep and cook time of just 25 minutes, these skewers are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a last-minute addition to a party menu.

3. Crowd-Pleaser

Prawns are a universally loved seafood choice, and the combination of garlic, butter, and lime appeals to most palates, making this dish a hit at any gathering.

4. Versatile Serving Options

Serve these skewers as a main dish with sides like rice or salad, or present them as an appetizer at your next BBQ or dinner party.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Prawn Skewers with Lime

Here’s what you’ll need to make 4 servings:

For the Prawn Skewers:

  • 1 pound large prawns, peeled and deveined: The main component that holds the flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: For richness and flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped: Enhances the taste and presentation.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.
  • Juice of 1 lime: Provides a citrusy balance.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: For seasoning.
  • Wooden or metal skewers: For threading the prawns.
  • Lime wedges, for serving: Adds a final burst of freshness.

For Garnish:

  • Extra fresh parsley, for sprinkling: Adds color and flavor.
  • Zest of 1 lime: Provides an aromatic finish.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Garlic Butter Prawn Skewers with Lime

Step 1: Prepare the Skewers

  1. Soak wooden skewers: If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15-20 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
  2. Preheat grill or grill pan: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. Melt the butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Add garlic and parsley: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the fresh parsley and red chili flakes if desired.
  3. Incorporate lime juice: Squeeze in the juice of one lime and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Marinate and Skewer the Prawns

  1. Marinate the prawns: Place the peeled and deveined prawns in a bowl. Pour half of the garlic butter sauce over the prawns and toss to coat evenly. Let the prawns sit for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. Thread the prawns: Thread 3-4 prawns onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each prawn for even cooking.

Step 4: Grill the Prawn Skewers

  1. Cook the skewers: Place the skewers on the preheated grill or grill pan. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the prawns turn pink and opaque.
  2. Baste with butter: While grilling, brush the skewers with the remaining garlic butter sauce for extra flavor and moisture.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Garnish and plate: Transfer the grilled prawn skewers to a serving platter. Sprinkle with extra fresh parsley, lime zest, and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing.
  2. Enjoy immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve the skewers hot.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Prawn Skewers with Lime

1. Use Fresh Prawns

Fresh prawns yield the best flavor and texture. If using frozen prawns, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.

2. Don’t Overcook

Prawns cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Watch them closely and remove them from the grill as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

3. Marinate Briefly

Unlike other proteins, prawns do not need to marinate for long. A short marination time of 5-10 minutes is sufficient to infuse flavor without compromising texture.

4. Use a Hot Grill

A hot grill ensures a good sear on the prawns without drying them out. This helps achieve a lightly charred exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

5. Serve with Citrus

Serving the skewers with lime wedges adds a burst of brightness that complements the richness of the garlic butter.

Variations of Garlic Butter Prawn Skewers with Lime

1. Add Spices

Incorporate spices like paprika, cayenne, or cumin into the marinade for an added layer of flavor.

2. Try Different Herbs

Swap out parsley for cilantro or basil to create a different flavor profile.

3. Use Lemon Instead of Lime

For a subtle flavor change, replace the lime juice with lemon juice.

4. Incorporate Vegetables

Alternate the prawns with pieces of bell pepper or cherry tomatoes on the skewers for a colorful and nutritious twist.

5. Top with Parmesan

Finish the skewers with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, savory addition.

Pairing Suggestions

Garlic Butter Prawn Skewers with Lime pair well with:

  • Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: The crisp and light flavors of these white wines complement the butteriness of the prawns and the citrusy lime.
  • Rosé: A chilled glass of rosé provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors.
  • Sparkling Water with Lime: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a splash of lime adds a complementary citrus note.
  • Sides like Rice or Salad: Serve the skewers with a side of jasmine rice, a fresh garden salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Garlic Butter Prawn Skewers with Lime are a simple yet sophisticated dish that showcases the perfect balance of buttery, garlicky goodness with the bright, tangy flavor of lime. This dish is perfect for a summer BBQ, a casual weeknight dinner, or an elegant dinner party appetizer. With just a few fresh ingredients and minimal prep time, you can serve up a dish that’s sure to impress.

Try this recipe for your next gathering and enjoy the flavorful, tender prawns that everyone will rave about!