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Sonoran Prawns Scampi

This Sonoran prawn scampi is a bold, high-protein take on a classic seafood pasta. Inspired by the vibrant flavours of the Sonoran Desert, it swaps traditional butter and lemon for smoky roasted poblano chillies, zesty lime, and sun-dried tomatoes. Using whole-wheat farfalle adds a nutty depth and extra fibre, making this a wholesome choice for anyone seeking a nutritious yet deeply satisfying evening meal.

Ideal for a quick midweek dinner, this dish balances the sweetness of succulent king prawns with the gentle heat of the chillies and the brightness of fresh coriander. The light white wine sauce ensures the dish remains elegant rather than heavy, offering a sophisticated way to hit your protein goals. Serve it immediately from the frying pan for a colourful, homemade feast that the whole family will enjoy.

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Ingredients for Sonoran Prawns Scampi

  • 3 poblano chillies

  • 450g medium prawns, shelled and deveined

  • 1 teaspoon salt, divided

  • 1/4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, divided

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

  • 2 red peppers, cored, seeded and thinly sliced

  • 2 tablespoons chopped (or thinly sliced) sun-dried tomatoes (about 3 halves)

  • 1 tablespoon limezest

  • 60ml fresh lime juice

  • 120ml white wine

  • 950ml farfalle, preferably whole- wheat, cooked

  • 1/4 cup fresh coriander, chopped

How to make Sonoran Prawns Scampi

Place chillies directly over the burners of a gas stove. Roast over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until skin is charred and chillies soften, 10 to 15 minutes. (To roast in oven, cover a large biscuit sheet with foil. Place chillies on sheet and grill, turning occasionally, until skin is charred and chillies soften, 12 to 17 minutes.) Remove from heat and cool. Remove peel and seeds. Slice thinly; set aside. Sprinkle prawns with half the salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large pan over high heat. Cook prawns, stirring occasionally, 2 to 3 minutes. Add garlic; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in chillies, red peppers, tomatoes, zest and lime juice. Cook until liquid reduces by half and prawns are no longer translucent, 1 to 2 minutes. Add wine and reduce until slightly syrupy. Stir in pasta. Reduce heat to low and cover 1 minute. Top with coriander and serve.

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.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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