This high-protein prawn linguini is fast, fiery, and ridiculously satisfying. Juicy prawns, smoky chorizo, garlic, chilli, and sweet cherry tomatoes come together in a glossy sauce that clings beautifully to al dente linguine. Big flavour. Big protein. Big weeknight win.
If you’ve ever wanted a pasta dish that tastes like you “really tried” (even though you absolutely did not), this High-Protein Prawn Linguini is your new best mate.
It’s a quick Italian-inspired seafood dinner loaded with tender prawns, garlicky tomatoes, and just enough chilli to remind you you’re alive.
With around 37 g of protein per serving and 457 calories, it hits that sweet spot of filling-but-not-heavy… perfect for menopause weight-loss goals or anyone battling the “what’s for dinner?” dread.
The main protein source here is plump tiger prawns, backed up by a cheeky bit of chorizo for smoky depth.
Everything cooks in one frying pan, and the only equipment you need is a large saucepan for the pasta and a pan for the sauce.
From chopping board to plate, you’re looking at 20 minutes. Blink and it’s done.
Why you’ll love this high-protein recipe
Packs in around 37 g of protein, keeping you full and satisfied for hours.
Ready in 20 minutes using simple supermarket ingredients.
Prawns + chorizo = massive flavour without loads of faff.
Great for nights when you want something “restaurant-y” without leaving your sofa.
Naturally portion-controlled — high protein means no “accidental seconds”.
Easy to tweak, super freezer-friendly sauce base, and ideal for meal prep.
Key Ingredients
Linguine. The chic cousin of spaghetti — silky, slurpy, and perfect for grabbing that spicy tomato sauce.
Garlic. Two cloves because one is a suggestion and two is a lifestyle. This is the foundation of all good things.
Red Chilli. A tiny troublemaker that brings heat and personality. Adjust as required depending on who's eating and their tolerance for drama.
Chorizo. Smoky, spicy, and wildly delicious. It melts into the oil, flavouring every strand of pasta. A cameo role, but iconic.
Tiger Prawns. Big, juicy, and protein-packed. They cook in minutes and elevate the dish from “meh” to “magnifico”.
Cherry Tomatoes. Fresh, bright, and bursting with natural sweetness. They break down into a rich, jammy sauce.
Red Wine Vinegar. A sharp splash that cuts through the richness and wakes up the whole dish.
Lemon Juice. The finishing flourish — brightens everything like turning on a kitchen light.
Keeping Prawn Linguini Fresh For Later
To Store
Pop your leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The flavours get even more saucy overnight.
To Reheat
Add a splash of water to a frying pan and warm gently over medium heat. Avoid microwaving unless you enjoy rubbery prawns (don’t be that person).
To Freeze
You can freeze it, but prawns lose their bounce. If you do freeze it, tightly wrap and use within 1 month. Reheat from frozen in a pan with a splash of water.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp rocket salad and balsamic dressing
Add steamed greens (broccoli, spinach, tenderstem) for a fibre boost
Pair with garlic ciabatta for carb lovers
Top with grated Parmesan or fresh basil
Variations & Tips
Boost protein by adding extra prawns or stirring through low-fat crème fraîche or 0% Greek yoghurt at the end for creaminess.
Swap prawns for chicken breast strips for a cheaper version.
Make it spicier with extra chilli or a pinch of chilli flakes.
Add spinach for colour and smugness.
Don’t overcook the prawns — they go from perfect to chew toy in seconds.
FAQs
Can I use frozen prawns?
Absolutely — just defrost and pat dry first. Otherwise, they release water and the sauce turns watery and sad.
How do I make it less spicy?
Skip the fresh chilli and rely on the chorizo alone for warmth. It stays flavour-packed but kid-friendly.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes — swap linguine for your favourite gluten-free pasta. Everything else is naturally gluten-free.
How do I stop prawns going rubbery?
Cook them for 2–3 minutes max. As soon as they turn pink and curl slightly, they’re done. Pull them off the heat immediately.
Ready in 20 minutes, this prawn linguini is big on bold flavour and even bigger on protein. Smoky chorizo included, obviously.
Total Time:20 mins
Yield:31x
Ingredients
UnitsScale
300g dried linguine
1 tbsp. olive oil
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 red chilli, finely chopped
50gchorizo, cut into cubes
400g large tiger prawns (peeled)
400gcherry tomatoes, halved
1 tbsp. red wine vinegar
1 tbsp. lemon juice
Salt and pepper
Instructions
Cook the pasta as per the instructions on the packet, drain and set aside.
Heat a frying pan on medium heat, add the olive oil then throw in the garlic and chilli then cook for a minute.
Add the chorizo and prawns to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until the prawns are browned.
Add the tomatoes, red wine vinegar and a splash of water and cook for 5 minutes until they start to break down and the sauce thickens.
Add the cooked pasta to the pan along with the lemon juice, salt and pepper. Mix everything through then serve.
Author:Scott Baptie
Prep Time:5 mins
Cook Time:15 mins
Category:Main Course
Method:Stove Top
Cuisine:Italian
Nutrition
Serving Size:1
Calories:457
Fat:9 g
Carbohydrates:57 g
Protein:37 g
Recipe Video
If you liked this Prawn Linguini, try these:
Sweet Chilli Salmon. If you're into that spicy-sweet combo, this one’s a no-brainer. Sticky, tangy, and ready in a flash, this salmon number delivers high protein with zero stress. Pair it with rice or veggies and you’ve got a meal that slaps. Bonus points if you eat it with your hands. (No judgement.)
Salmon Pasta Salad. Cold pasta, but make it boujee. This salmon pasta salad is fresh, zesty, and ridiculously satisfying. It’s great for packed lunches, meal prep, or pretending you're at a picnic even when it’s raining sideways. High in protein and mood-boosting vibes.
Salmon Risotto. A creamy, dreamy salmon risotto packed with protein, peas, and punchy lemon zest. It’s herby, comforting, and ready to swan onto your weeknight dinner table in under 40 minutes.
Leave A Comment Below
Loved the recipe? Got your own little tweaks and twists? I am all ears! Feel free to drop a comment below and share your cooking experiences with me.
Scott is the owner and founder of Food For Fitness. He is a fat loss coach, speaker and fitness writer with a masters (MSc) degree in Applied Sports Nutrition.
I'm a Nutritionist and Sunday Times Bestselling recipe book author who makes high-protein recipes for busy families, fitness enthusiasts or people just trying to eat healthier!
I bought the high protein handbook 6 and it has been a great slow cooker recipe book that the whole family has enjoyed. The recipes always come out well with a good consistency for the sauce and taste delicious. I have now purchased the remaining books and can’t wait to try new recipes! Thanks
Scott
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