Serves

Time

Ingredients (metric + imperial)

• 400 g linguine (14 oz)
• 500 g raw prawns/shrimp, peeled & deveined (1.1 lb)
• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (60 ml)
• 4–6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 small long red chilli, finely sliced (or 1/2 tsp chilli flakes)
• 120 ml Sticky Balsamic White (1/2 cup)
• 60 ml lemon juice (1/4 cup) optional, for extra lift
• 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt, plus pasta water
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• 30 g butter (2 tbsp) optional, for a silkier sauce

Method

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil. Cook linguine until al dente. Reserve 1 cup (250 ml) pasta water, then drain.
2. Prep the prawns: Pat prawns dry and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Sear: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add prawns and cook 60–90 seconds per side until just pink. Remove to a plate.
4. Build flavour: Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and chilli to the same pan and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant (don’t let garlic brown).
5. Make the Sticky Balsamic White sauce: Pour in Sticky Balsamic White and simmer 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly and turn glossy.
6. Emulsify: Add drained linguine and a splash of reserved pasta water (start with 1/4 cup / 60 ml). Toss vigorously to coat. Add butter (if using) and toss again until silky.
7. Finish: Return prawns to the pan for 30–60 seconds to warm through. Add parsley, lemon zest, and (optional) lemon juice. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and a little more Sticky Balsamic White if you want it brighter.
8. Serve: Plate immediately with extra parsley and cracked pepper.

Serving ideas

• Add a simple rocket/arugula salad dressed with Sticky Balsamic White + olive oil + salt.
• For a richer version, add a handful of grated parmesan at the table (optional).

Notes

• Don’t overcook prawns: Pull them as soon as they turn pink; they’ll finish in the sauce.
• Sauce too sharp? Add a touch more pasta water or butter.
• Sauce too mild? Reduce the Sticky Balsamic White 30–60 seconds longer before adding pasta.