Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta – Bright, Savory, and Effortlessly Elegant

Introduction

Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta is a simple yet refined dish that highlights fresh ingredients and bold Mediterranean flavors. Juicy prawns are gently baked with garlic, olive oil, and lemon, then finished with creamy, salty feta that melts just enough to coat everything beautifully. I often turn to this recipe when I want something light but satisfying, especially for warm evenings or relaxed entertaining. The lemon brings freshness, the feta adds richness, and the prawns remain tender thanks to the short baking time. What I appreciate most is how quickly this dish comes together while still feeling special and restaurant-worthy. It works equally well as a main course with bread or rice, or as a shared starter for guests. Clean, vibrant, and full of flavor, this recipe is a dependable favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is fast, flavorful, and requires minimal preparation. It is naturally gluten-free, high in protein, and perfect for both casual meals and elegant dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Raw prawns
Prawns are the star of the dish, offering a sweet, delicate flavor and tender texture when baked properly.

Olive oil
Olive oil adds richness and helps carry the lemon and garlic flavors throughout the dish.

Garlic
Garlic enhances the savory profile and pairs beautifully with both prawns and feta.

Lemon juice
Lemon juice adds brightness and acidity that balances the richness of the feta.

Lemon zest
Lemon zest intensifies citrus aroma and flavor without extra acidity.

Feta cheese
Feta provides a creamy, salty contrast that elevates the prawns and brings the dish together.

Red chili flakes
Red chili flakes add gentle heat and depth without overwhelming the other flavors.

Black pepper
Black pepper adds warmth and balance.

Fresh parsley
Parsley adds freshness, color, and a clean finish.

Directions

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Arrange the prawns in a single layer in a shallow baking dish.

Drizzle olive oil evenly over the prawns, then add minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, and red chili flakes. Toss gently to coat the prawns evenly.

Crumble the feta cheese over the top, distributing it evenly without fully covering the prawns.

Bake uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the prawns are pink, opaque, and just cooked through. Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes approximately 10 minutes, baking takes 15 minutes, and total time is about 25 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven at 170°C until just warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the prawns rubbery.

Variations and Customizations

This dish is easy to adapt. Cherry tomatoes can be added for sweetness and extra moisture. Kalamata olives introduce a briny element that pairs well with feta. For a creamier finish, add a splash of cream or Greek yogurt after baking. Fresh herbs such as dill or basil can replace parsley for a different flavor profile. If you prefer extra citrus, serve with lemon wedges on the side. Each variation keeps the dish light and flavorful while allowing flexibility.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	310 kcal
Protein	32 g
Carbs	6 g
Fat	18 g
Saturated Fat	6 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	2 g
Sodium	720 mg

Expert Tips & Customizations

Do not overbake
Prawns cook quickly and become tough if left too long.

Use fresh lemon
Fresh juice and zest provide the best flavor.

Crumble feta loosely
This allows it to soften without fully melting.

Serve immediately
The texture and flavor are best straight from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use frozen prawns?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before baking.

Should prawns be peeled?

Yes, peeled and deveined prawns are best for this dish.

Is feta very salty?

Yes, so additional salt is usually unnecessary.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It is best served fresh, but ingredients can be prepped in advance.

What should I serve with baked prawns?

Crusty bread, rice, or a light salad pair well.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, omit feta or use a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

Baked Prawns with Lemon and Feta is a bright, flavorful dish that showcases how simple ingredients can create something truly special. Quick to prepare and elegant on the plate, it is perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining. With tender prawns, fresh citrus, and creamy feta, this recipe is one you will want to return to again and again.

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