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Seared Garlic & Sesame Prawns over Honey-Soy Glazed Lentils Recipe

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Hold your horses - put down the takeaway menu! This isn’t beige, uninspired mush. We’re talking about sophisticated little legumes that have undergone a glow-up. These tiny powerhouses soak up a savoury, garlic-infused sauce, making them the perfect partner for juicy prawns. It’s a protein-packed, fiber-filled riot of flavour, ready to elevate your weeknight dinner.

Plate of garlic and sesame prawns served over glazed lentils, garnished with herbs, with crusty bread and a glass of white wine on a blue tablecloth.


The Cast of Characters

Before we dive into the sizzle, let’s talk about the lineup. We’ve gathered a vibrant cast of characters—from the zesty lime and pungent garlic to the glossy soy sauce—all ready to give these prawns and lentils the VIP treatment. It’s a kitchen counter gathering where every ingredient is pulling its weight to ensure your plate is anything but ordinary.

Overhead view of ingredients for garlic and sesame prawns with glazed lentils, including raw prawns, lentils, garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, sesame oil, sesame seeds, fresh herbs, citrus zest, and cooking liquids arranged in small bowls.

A Bath of Zest and Fire

Before the heat hits the pan, these prawns need a serious spa day in a bowl of aromatics. Think of lime zest as the ultimate wake-up call for seafood that's been hitting the snooze button. With a generous shower of garlic and a cheeky sprinkle of chilli, they're not just marinating; they’re basically preparing for their grand entrance at the most delicious party of the year.

Close-up of raw prawns marinating in a glass bowl with olive oil and garlic, as a wooden spoon sprinkles lime zest and chili flakes on top, with a lime and garlic bulb in the background.

The Low-Key Lentil Transformation

Lentils are frequently dismissed as the 'plain Jane' of the cupboard, but don't let their quiet nature fool you. While they bubble in a flavorful stock bath, they're busy absorbing every drop of deliciousness. This patient simmering transforms each tiny legume into a flavor-packed gem that acts like a savory sponge. Once perfectly tender, they transition from a humble background ingredient to the true star of the show.
Black pot of beans simmering on an electric stovetop

The "Lick-The-Plate" Factor

Listen closely, because that sound you hear is the prawn performance hitting its sizzling peak. When the marinated prawns hit that screaming hot pan, the air fills with the scent of caramelizing honey. It’s a high-speed transformation from translucent to perfectly pink, curled into delicious little question marks. The question they're asking? 'Why on earth haven't you started eating us yet?'
Prawns sizzling in a frying pan on a glowing electric stovetop with oil and seasoning

A Herbaceous Twist

This dish is a chameleon for all seasons. Fresh coriander adds brightness, but parsley or basil works beautifully if coriander isn’t your thing. Pair with a chunky slice of crusty bread to mop up every last drop of honey-soy glaze.

Garlic prawns served over cooked lentils and garnished with fresh coriander on a white plate

💡 Pro Tip: Want to take it up a notch? Add a cheeky splash of white wine while frying the prawns for a “chef’s kiss” finish.

🍤 Seared Prawns with Garlicky Glazed Lentils

A quick, vibrant, and protein-packed dish that transforms humble pantry staples into a gourmet weeknight feast.

Garlic and sesame prawns served over lentils with fresh herbs
  • Prep: 15 min
  • Cook: 25 min
  • Servings: 2

Ingredients

  • 400g fresh prawns, deveined
  • 1 pinch dried chilli flakes
  • 1 lime, zest and juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 200g dried lentils
  • 350ml water or fish stock
For the Dressing:
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
  • 3 tbsp sesame seeds
  • Handful of fresh coriander (or parsley), chopped

Instructions

  1. Marinate: Toss prawns with chilli flakes, lime zest & juice, garlic, and olive oil. Chill to soak up the flavours.
  2. Cook Lentils: Simmer lentils in water or stock for 20 min until tender but still firm. Drain excess liquid.
  3. Prepare Dressing: Whisk soy sauce, honey, vinegar, and remaining chilli. Drizzle over lentils and toss with sesame seeds.
  4. Sear Prawns: Heat pan until very hot. Fry prawns for 2 min until pink & golden. Pour in remaining marinade and bubble for flavour.
  5. Assemble: Fold fresh coriander into lentils. Plate, top with prawns, and drizzle pan juices over the top.

To round off this vibrant meal, a crisp Dry Riesling or a zesty Sauvignon Blanc serves as the perfect partner, cutting through the savory honey-soy glaze while beautifully highlighting the fresh lime and garlic notes.

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