Melon with Prawns and Strawberries

Melon with Prawns and Strawberries Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This refreshing and light Melon with Prawns and Strawberries recipe is perfect for a summer day. The combination of sweet melon, juicy strawberries, and succulent prawns creates a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to impress your guests.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on a classic seafood and fruit salad. The combination of melon, prawns, and strawberries is a popular choice in many cuisines around the world, as it offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

0.5 medium-sized avocado
0.5 tsp lemon juice
1 medium-sized, ripe seasonal melon (i.e. ogen, cantaloupe or honeydew)
1 celery heart, chopped
4 oz (113 g) strawberries, hulled and sliced
8 oz (227 g) cooked, peeled prawns (thawed if frozen)
2 little gem lettuces, rinsed and torn into pieces

Dressing

8 oz (227 g) strawberries
1 tsp caster sugar
2 tsp olive oil
1 tbsp unsweetened orange juice
2 tsp chopped fresh parsley
salt and freshly ground black pepper

How to prepare

Peel and chop the avocado. Place it in a mixing bowl.
Sprinkle the avocado with lemon juice to prevent discoloration.
Halve the melon, discard the seeds, and scoop out the flesh using a melon baller (or cut it into cubes).
Gently combine the melon, chopped celery, strawberries, and prawns with the avocado. Refrigerate until needed.
Meanwhile, purée the dressing ingredients in a food processor or blender.
Arrange the lettuce on 4 plates and divide the prawn mixture between them.
Pour the dressing over the plates and serve immediately.

Variations

Add diced cucumber or red onion for extra crunch and flavor.
Substitute cooked chicken or tofu for the prawns for a vegetarian option.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze or a citrus vinaigrette for a different dressing option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe and sweet melon for the best flavor.

- Thaw the prawns completely before using them in the recipe.

- Toss the avocado in lemon juice to prevent it from turning brown.

- Refrigerate the salad before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served as a light lunch or dinner, or as a refreshing appetizer for a summer party. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a fruity cocktail for a perfect summer meal.

Cooking Techniques

Use a melon baller to create perfectly shaped melon balls.

- Thaw the prawns by placing them in a bowl of cold water for a few minutes.

- Blend the dressing ingredients in a food processor or blender for a smooth and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use mango or pineapple instead of melon for a tropical twist.

- Substitute baby spinach or arugula for the lettuce for a different flavor profile.

- Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a tangy twist.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and assemble just before serving.

- Make the dressing in advance and refrigerate until needed.

- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a hollowed-out melon half for a fun and festive presentation. - Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a pop of color. - Arrange the salad on a platter and serve family-style for a casual meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio for a perfect summer pairing.

- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal.

- Finish with a light and fruity dessert, such as sorbet or fresh fruit salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy cold straight from the fridge.

- Do not freeze as the texture of the salad may change.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Melon with Prawns and Strawberries recipe contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a light and satisfying dish that is perfect for a healthy meal.

Carbohydrates

This recipe is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those looking to reduce their carb intake. The main sources of carbohydrates in this dish are the melon, strawberries, and avocado.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the avocado and olive oil used in the dressing. These healthy fats are essential for a balanced diet and provide a rich and creamy texture to the dish.

Proteins

The main source of protein in this recipe comes from the prawns. Prawns are a lean source of protein that is low in calories and high in nutrients, making them a great addition to any meal.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh fruits and vegetables used. Melon is rich in vitamin C and vitamin A, while strawberries are a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Avocado is high in healthy fats and potassium, while prawns are a good source of selenium and omega-3 fatty acids.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (prawns) and avocado, which are common allergens. If you have allergies to these ingredients, it is best to avoid this dish or make substitutions as needed.

Summary

Overall, this Melon with Prawns and Strawberries recipe is a nutritious and delicious option for a light and refreshing meal. It is low in carbohydrates, high in protein, and packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for any occasion.

Summary

This Melon with Prawns and Strawberries recipe is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a summer day. Packed with fresh fruits, vegetables, and succulent prawns, this dish is a nutritious and delicious option for any occasion. Enjoy it as a light lunch, dinner, or appetizer, and impress your guests with this colorful and flavorful dish.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother. The pages were yellowed and the binding was worn, but the recipes within were like hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

As I turned the pages, a recipe caught my eye. It was for Melon with Prawns and Strawberries - a unique combination of flavors that intrigued me. I had never thought to pair sweet melon with savory prawns and tart strawberries before, but something about it spoke to me. I knew I had to make it.

I read the recipe carefully, taking note of each ingredient and step. It seemed simple enough, but I could tell that it would require a delicate touch to balance the flavors just right. I made a mental note to pick up the ingredients the next time I went to the market.

The following week, I gathered everything I needed and set to work in the kitchen. I diced the melon into bite-sized chunks, cooked the prawns until they were just pink and juicy, and sliced the strawberries into thin rounds. I mixed everything together in a large bowl and drizzled it with a light dressing made from lemon juice, olive oil, and a hint of honey.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the melon paired perfectly with the briny prawns, while the strawberries added a burst of freshness. The dressing tied everything together, adding a tangy brightness that made the dish truly sing.

I knew then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my repertoire. It was a dish that was both simple and elegant, perfect for a light summer meal or a festive gathering with friends and family. I made it again and again, each time tweaking the ingredients and proportions until it was just right.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and loved ones, each time receiving glowing reviews and requests for the recipe. I was proud to pass on a dish that had brought me so much joy and satisfaction.

As I grew older, I continued to experiment with new recipes and techniques, always eager to learn and expand my culinary horizons. But Melon with Prawns and Strawberries remained a favorite, a comforting reminder of the simple pleasures of good food and good company.

Now, as I sit here reflecting on my life and all the recipes I have collected over the years, I am grateful for the memories and experiences that each dish represents. Cooking has always been a source of joy and creativity for me, a way to express myself and connect with others.

And so, I will continue to cook and create, to share my love of food with those around me, and to pass on the recipes that have brought me so much happiness. For in the kitchen, as in life, there is always something new to discover and savor. And I am grateful for every bite.