Prawn and Melon Salad

This delightful Prawn and Melon Salad is a refreshing dish that's perfect for a light lunch or a starter. The combination of crispy prawns and juicy melon provides a satisfying texture contrast, while the sweet chili sauce adds a tantalizing kick. This dish features succulent tiger prawns coated with panko breadcrumbs, resulting in a golden, crunchy exterior. Paired with vibrant radish slices and fresh salad leaves, it bursts with color and flavor. The garnet-like pomegranate seeds and rich walnuts add a touch of elegance and crunch. Despite its gourmet appearance, this salad is simple to make and can be a stunning addition to your dining table. Balanced in flavors, it uses chili and garlic to add warmth and depth. The dish reflects an ideal blend of sweet, spicy, and nutty flavors that will delight your taste buds. Serve it as a standalone meal or pair it with your favorite side for a complete dining experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 egg
  • 300 g tiger prawns
  • 250 g panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 handful mixed salad leaves
  • 4 radishes
  • 1 melon, sliced
  • Pomegranate seeds
  • Walnuts, chopped

Spices and Sauces:

  • 4 garlic cloves
  • Chili pepper
  • Sweet chili sauce

Preparation Time

  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

  1. Prepare the Prawns: Start by beating the egg in a bowl. Take the tiger prawns, ensuring they are cleaned and deveined.
  2. Coat the Prawns: Dip each prawn into the beaten egg, then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
  3. Infuse the Oil: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and chili pepper to the oil and let them infuse the oil with their flavors for a minute.
  4. Cook the Prawns: Place the breaded prawns into the pan. Cook until the breadcrumbs turn a golden brown, ensuring the prawns are cooked through but remain juicy.
  5. Assemble the Greens: On a serving plate, lay out a bed of mixed salad leaves. Add the thinly sliced radish on top.
  6. Prepare the Melon: Peel and slice the melon, placing a few slices around the salad.
  7. Add Crunch: Sprinkle the pomegranate seeds and chopped walnuts across the salad for added texture and flavor.
  8. Top with Prawns: Arrange the golden prawns over the salad. Drizzle with sweet chili sauce for an extra kick.
  9. Serve Immediately: Serve the salad fresh and garnish with any remaining herbs or lemon wedges if desired.
  10. Enjoy: Savor the blend of flavors and textures with each bite.

Tips

  • Substitution: Use shrimp if tiger prawns are unavailable. For a vegetarian option, substitute prawns with tofu or cauliflower.
  • Extra Crunch: Additional panko breadcrumbs on top before baking can make the coating even crispier.
  • Storage: Prepare ingredients in advance, but assemble just before serving for the freshest taste.

Nutritions

  • Calories: Approx. 450 per serving
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fats: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g

Variations

  • Spicy Version: Add more chili flakes to increase the spice level.
  • Nut-Free: Omit walnuts and substitute with sunflower seeds.
  • Vegan Option: Replace prawns with grilled vegetables or chickpeas.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a chilled glass of crisp white wine.
  • Serve alongside garlic bread or a fresh baguette.
  • Garnish with lemon wedges for an added zest.

Best Places

  • The Seafood Bar - Known for its fresh seafood selections and vibrant atmosphere. Location: Van Baerlestraat 5, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
  • Prawn on the Lawn - Offering seafood dishes with a contemporary twist. Location: 292-294 St Paul’s Road, London, UK.
  • La Mar Cebicheria Peruana - Celebrated for its Peruvian seafood delicacies. Location: Av. Mariscal La Mar 770, Miraflores, Lima, Peru.
  • Catalina - Offers exceptional seafood paired with stunning waterside views. Location: Lyne Park, Rose Bay, Sydney, Australia.
  • El Mercado - A lively spot for innovative seafood and ceviche. Location: Av. Hipólito Unanue 203, Miraflores, Lima, Peru.
  • Katz Orange - A vibrant bar offering unique seafood dishes. Location: Bergstraße 22, Berlin, Germany.
  • Gotham Bar & Grill - Where classic American elegance meets seafood specialties. Location: 12 E 12th St, New York, USA.
  • The Fish Market - Serving the freshest catches with a classic touch. Location: 4967 W Broad St, Columbus, OH, USA.
  • Chez Leon - Offers Belgian cuisine with excellent seafood options. Location: Rue des Bouchers 18, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium.
  • Nobu Tokyo - A fusion of Japanese flavors and fresh seafood. Location: 1 Chome-1-2 Yurakucho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo, Japan.