Prawn vodka saganaki

Vodka Prawn Saganaki is a vibrant and flavorful seafood dish that brings together succulent prawns, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creamy feta cheese, and a splash of vodka for an irresistible Mediterranean-inspired meal. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and want to impress with a dish that's both easy to prepare and bursting with deliciousness.

The dish starts with large peeled prawns, which are cooked to perfection in a rich and aromatic tomato sauce enhanced with the warmth of smoked paprika and fragrant dried oregano. The addition of vodka not only adds a unique depth of flavor but also helps to tenderize the prawns and infuse them with a subtle hint of sophistication.

Sun-dried tomatoes lend a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory tomato base, while feta cheese provides a creamy and salty note that balances the dish beautifully. Fresh parsley adds a touch of brightness and freshness, complementing the robust flavors of the sauce.

To prepare this dish, begin by sautéing diced red onions, sun-dried tomatoes, and red chilies until softened and aromatic. Add minced garlic for an extra layer of flavor before setting aside this aromatic base. In the same skillet, cook the prawns briefly until they turn pink and then flambé them with vodka to intensify their taste.

Next, combine the sautéed vegetables with tomato purée, smoked paprika, and dried oregano in the skillet. Crumble the feta cheese over the mixture without stirring it in just yet, allowing it to melt gently into the sauce as it simmers. Cover and cook the dish over medium heat to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish and drizzle with a final touch of olive oil for added richness. Vodka Prawn Saganaki is best enjoyed hot, straight from the skillet, accompanied by crusty bread or over a bed of steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

This recipe not only satisfies the palate but also offers a delightful culinary experience that transports you to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean. Whether you're preparing it for a special dinner or a casual gathering, Vodka Prawn Saganaki is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, showcasing the best of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 350
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 800mg
Potassium: 600mg
Vitamin A: 25% DV
Vitamin C: 30% DV
Calcium: 15% DV
Iron: 20% DV

Serves: 4
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes

Ingredients: 

- 500 grams (18 oz) large peeled prawns
- 2 red chilies 
- 1 red onion
- 100 grams (5 oz) sun dried tomatoes 
- 150 grams (3 oz) feta
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 garlic cloves
- 100 ml (3.5 fl oz) vodka 
- 200 grams (10 oz) tomato purée 
- 3 sprigs fresh parsley 
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano 
- Salt, pepper to taste 

Instructions:

1. Finely dice onions, sun-dried tomatoes, and chillies into very small pieces. Finely chop parsley and mince garlic.
2. In a cast-iron skillet on high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, diced onions, sun-dried tomatoes, and chilies. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add prawns to the skillet, and flambé with vodka. Season with salt, pepper, and cook for 2 minutes per side.
4. Return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet along with tomato purée, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Crumble feta on top - do not mix at this stage. Lower the heat to medium and cook covered for 10 minutes.
5. Once cooked, add finely chopped parsley and drizzle the remaining olive oil.
6. Serve with toasted rustic fresh bread.