Spanish Summer Recipes: Grilled Prawns with Red Rice 2026

Spanish summer recipes like grilled prawns with red rice capture the essence of coastal dining. This dish combines smoky grilled prawns, rich tomato-infused rice, and a garlicky allioli for a memorable meal.

Why Spanish Summer Recipes Are Perfect for Seafood Lovers

Spanish cuisine thrives on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Grilled prawns, a staple in coastal regions, pair beautifully with red rice, which absorbs the umami from shellfish and tomatoes. The recipe below is inspired by Thomasina Miers' travels in Mexico and Spain.

Key Ingredients for Grilled Prawns with Red Rice

You'll need medium-sized ripe tomatoes, red chili, red pepper, olive oil, garlic, prawns (heads and shells on), chipotle en adobo, sherry vinegar, red onion, fennel, saffron, short-grain rice, mayonnaise, and peas. The allioli is made from good-quality mayonnaise and garlic.

Step-by-Step Cooking Method

First, blacken the tomatoes, chili, and pepper in a dry pan. Then, sear the whole garlic cloves in oil before adding the prawns. Cook the rice with the tomato puree, saffron, and stock, then top with grilled prawns and peas. Finish with chopped chives.

Comparison: Arroz vs. Paella

Key Takeaways

• Use very ripe tomatoes for maximum sweetness.
• Keep prawn heads and shells on for deeper flavor.
• Toast the peppers until blackened for a smoky taste.
• Serve with fresh allioli and a squeeze of lemon.
• This dish serves 4-6 and takes about 1 hour 20 minutes.

FAQ

Enjoy these Spanish summer recipes that transport you to the coasts of Mexico and Spain. Serve with a cold custard of roasted peaches for a boozy dessert finale.