Spicy Prawn and Harissa Spaghetti for a Flavorful Weeknight Meal

If you’re craving a quick yet satisfying meal packed with flavor, look no further than this Prawn & Harissa Spaghetti. With juicy prawns, fragrant rose harissa paste, and vibrant veggies like broccoli and cherry tomatoes, it’s the perfect dinner that feels fancy but comes together in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Not only does it deliver bold, spicy-sweet flavors, but it also provides a nutritious boost. Prawns are an excellent source of lean protein and essential vitamins like B12, while broccoli adds fiber and antioxidants. Harissa, a North African chili paste, offers a smoky depth that beautifully complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and prawns.

Ingredients

• 100g long-stem broccoli, cut into thirds

• 180g dried spaghetti (regular or wholemeal)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large garlic clove, lightly bashed

• 150g cherry tomatoes, halved

• 150g raw king prawns

• 1 heaped tbsp rose harissa paste

• 1 lemon, finely zested

Method

1. Blanch the Broccoli:
   Bring a large pan of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook for 1 minute 30 seconds, until just tender. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Spaghetti:
   In the same pan, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve a ladleful of the cooking water this will help create a silky sauce.

3. Infuse the Oil:
   Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over low heat. Add the garlic clove and fry for 2 minutes to infuse the oil. Remove the garlic and discard, leaving the flavored oil behind.

4. Sauté the Tomatoes & Prawns:
   Increase the heat to medium and add the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes, until softened and juicy. Stir in the prawns and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until they start turning pink.

5. Add Flavor:
   Stir through the rose harissa paste and lemon zest, ensuring the prawns and tomatoes are well coated.

6. Toss Everything Together:
   Add the drained spaghetti and a splash of the reserved pasta water to the pan. Toss everything together, coating the pasta with the sauce. Fold in the blanched broccoli, season to taste, and serve immediately.

Nutritional Highlights

• Protein-packed: Prawns provide over 20g of lean protein per serving.

• Rich in fiber: Broccoli and wholemeal spaghetti offer fiber to support digestion.

• Healthy fats: Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat source.

• Flavorful without heavy sauces: The harissa and lemon zest pack bold flavors without added cream or butter.

This recipe reflects the Mediterranean influence of using fresh ingredients and simple techniques to create meals that nourish both body and soul values celebrated in Israeli cuisine and culture.

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