Butterfly Chili Lime Prawn Spedini Recipe with Raspberry Dipping Sauce – Perfect for Entertaining

Spedini, or spiedini, refers to Italian skewered meats, typically grilled or roasted. In this dish, prawns serve as the main ingredient, replacing traditional options like beef or pork. Threaded onto skewers, the prawns are marinated and grilled to perfection.

The Unique Flavor Profile

Butterfly Chili Lime Prawn Spedini feature a distinctive combination of spicy, citrusy, and sweet flavors. The marinade, consisting of chili and lime, imparts zest and tang to the prawns. The raspberry dipping sauce offers a refreshing contrast with its sweet, fruity profile, creating a balanced culinary experience.

Ingredients Breakdown

Essential Ingredients for the Prawn Spedini

For the Butterfly Chili Lime Prawn Spedini, you’ll need the following key ingredients:

• Prawns: 20 large prawns, deveined and butterflied
• Chili Powder: 1 tablespoon for that necessary kick
• Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons for zesty freshness
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced to enhance flavor
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons as a base for the marinade
• Salt: 1 teaspoon for seasoning
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon for depth

Ensure prawns are fresh. Marinate them in a blend of chili powder, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

Making the Raspberry Dipping Sauce

To complement your prawn spedini, prepare the raspberry dipping sauce using these ingredients:

• Raspberries: 1 cup, fresh or frozen for a sweet-tart base
• Honey: 2 tablespoons to balance acidity
• Balsamic Vinegar: 1 tablespoon for a hint of tanginess
• Water: ¼ cup to adjust consistency
• Salt: A pinch to enhance flavors

Blend raspberries with honey, balsamic vinegar, water, and salt until smooth. Strain the mixture to remove seeds if preferred. Adjust thickness with water as needed. This sauce pairs splendidly with the chili lime prawns, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Preparing the Prawns

Start by cleaning the prawns. Remove the shells, leaving the tails intact, and devein each prawn. Butterfly the prawns by carefully slicing along the back without cutting through completely. In a bowl, mix chili powder, lime juice, minced garlic, and olive oil. Add the prawns to the marinade, ensuring each prawn is well-coated. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Grilling the Spedini

Preheat the grill to medium-high. Thread the marinated prawns onto skewers, about 3-4 prawns per skewer. Arrange the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the prawns turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness. Once cooked, remove the spedini from the grill and place them on a serving platter.

Crafting the Perfect Dipping Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine fresh raspberries, honey, balsamic vinegar, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and strain the sauce through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before serving alongside the grilled prawn spedini.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing with Drinks

Pairing the right drink enhances the flavor of your Butterfly Chili Lime Prawn Spedini. Consider serving:

• White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines have crisp acidity that complements the lime and balances the chili heat.
• Sparkling Wine: Prosecco or Champagne. The bubbles offer a refreshing contrast to the rich prawn texture and the tangy raspberry sauce.
• Light Beer: Pilsner or Pale Ale. The light malt and mild hop bitterness match well with the grilled prawns’ smokiness.
• Non-Alcoholic Options: Sparkling Water with a Twist of Lime or Iced Green Tea. The clean, refreshing profiles enhance the dish without overpowering it.

• Salads: A fresh Arugula Salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the citrus notes. Or try a Mango Avocado Salad to echo the tropical flavors.
• Grains: Serve with Cilantro Lime Rice for a cohesive flavor profile or Quinoa for a healthy, nutty counterpart.
• Vegetables: Grilled Asparagus or Zucchini enhances the dish’s smoky notes, while Blistered Cherry Tomatoes add a sweet-tart contrast.
• Plating: Arrange the prawn skewers on a rectangular platter. Drizzle the raspberry sauce stylishly on one side. Garnish with lime wedges and chopped cilantro for a vibrant, appetizing look.

Conclusion

Butterfly Chili Lime Prawn Spedini with Raspberry Dipping Sauce is a delightful dish that promises to impress your guests and elevate your culinary skills. The combination of spicy marinated prawns with the sweet-tart raspberry sauce creates a harmonious balance of flavors. Pairing this dish with the right beverages and sides will further enhance your dining experience. Don’t forget to pay attention to the presentation, as a visually appealing plate can make the meal even more enjoyable. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a favorite at your gatherings.