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Chilled Prawns Salad

This chilled prawn salad is a vibrant, heart-healthy dish that celebrates the fresh flavours of a Mediterranean summer. The combination of succulent poached prawns and juicy watermelon offers a refreshing sweetness, balanced by the salty tang of crumbled feta and the aromatic punch of fresh basil. It is a sophisticated yet simple recipe that prioritises lean protein and hydrating ingredients, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a nutritious, low-fat meal during the warmer months.

Perfect as a light weekend lunch or an elegant starter for a dinner party, this dish relies on quality produce like heirloom tomatoes and a citrus-infused dressing. The prawns are gently poached with lemon and bay to ensure a delicate texture before being chilled to perfection. Serve this colourful platter in the centre of the table for a social, healthy dining experience that feels truly indulgent without being heavy.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Chilled Prawns Salad

  • 1 clove garlic, chopped

  • 1 tablespoon honey

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • 90ml orange juice

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

  • 1/4 teaspoons salt

  • Juice and rind from 1 lemon

  • 1 clove garlic, crushed

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 675g large prawns (tail intact)

  • 4 chunks watermelon (450g each), cut from the rind,

  • 450g heirloom tomatoes, cut into wedges

  • 1/3 cup crumbled feta

  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn

How to make Chilled Prawns Salad

Combine all dressing ingredients in a blender. Fill a 4-quart saucepan with water and bring to a boil; add lemon juice, lemon rind, garlic, bay leaf, peppercorns and salt. Add prawns, cover, remove from heat and let stand until prawns is cooked, about 15 minutes. Drain and cool 10 minutes, then refrigerate 30 minutes. Line a large platter with watermelon and tomatoes. Top with prawns, feta and basil. Drizzle with dressing.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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