Prawn and Chorizo Skewers with Quick Rice Salad
Few combinations work as well as seafood and smoky chorizo. These Prawn and Chorizo Skewers with Quick Rice Salad bring together succulent prawns, spicy Spanish-style chorizo and a fresh chargrilled rice salad for a meal that is both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Perfect for outdoor entertaining, weekend barbecues or a quick family dinner, this recipe delivers bold flavours with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- High in protein
- Great for barbecues
- Packed with fresh vegetables
- Smoky and spicy flavours
- Perfect for summer dining
- Easy weeknight meal
Ingredients
For the Skewers
- Peeled green prawns
- Chorizo sausage
- PERi-PERi sauce
For the Rice Salad
- Corn cobs
- Green beans
- Lemon
- Fresh parsley
- Brown rice and quinoa
- Extra virgin olive oil
Why Prawns and Chorizo Work So Well Together
The natural sweetness of prawns pairs perfectly with the smoky, spicy flavour of chorizo.
Together they create:
- A balance of rich and fresh flavours
- Excellent texture contrast
- High-protein meals
- Restaurant-quality results at home
The addition of PERi-PERi sauce adds a pleasant kick without overwhelming the seafood.
Health Benefits
Prawns
Prawns provide:
- Lean protein
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Selenium
- Vitamin B12
- Zinc
Brown Rice and Quinoa
This grain combination offers:
- Fibre
- Complex carbohydrates
- Plant protein
- Long-lasting energy
Green Beans
Rich in:
- Vitamin C
- Folate
- Fibre
- Antioxidants
Corn
Provides:
- Natural sweetness
- Fibre
- B vitamins
- Essential minerals
How to Make Prawn and Chorizo Skewers
Step 1: Prepare the Rice Salad
Chargrill:
- Corn cobs
- Green beans
- Lemon halves
Cook until lightly charred and tender.
Remove the corn kernels from the cob and combine with:
- Green beans
- Parsley
- Brown rice and quinoa
Dress with lemon juice and olive oil.
Step 2: Assemble the Skewers
Thread prawns and chorizo alternately onto skewers.
Brush generously with PERi-PERi sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Skewers
Cook on a barbecue or chargrill until:
- Prawns are pink and cooked through
- Chorizo is lightly crisp
- Everything develops a slight char
Squeeze fresh lemon over the skewers.
Step 4: Serve
Serve the skewers alongside the warm rice salad.
Enjoy immediately.
Tips for Success
Don’t Overcook the Prawns
Prawns cook quickly and remain juicy when removed from the heat as soon as they turn pink.
Use Fresh Corn When Possible
Fresh chargrilled corn adds sweetness and texture that elevates the salad.
Soak Bamboo Skewers
If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Adjust the Spice Level
Choose mild, medium or hot PERi-PERi sauce depending on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Mixed green salad
- Grilled vegetables
- Avocado slices
- Garlic yoghurt dressing
- Extra lemon wedges
Variations
Make It Lower Carb
Replace the rice mixture with:
- Cauliflower rice
- Mixed leafy greens
- Roasted vegetables
Add More Vegetables
Try:
- Capsicum
- Zucchini
- Cherry tomatoes
- Asparagus
Swap the Protein
Replace prawns with:
- Chicken breast
- White fish
- Salmon cubes
Use Different Sausages
Spanish-style chorizo can be replaced with:
- Chicken chorizo
- Turkey sausage
- Smoked sausage
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the prawns.
Meal Prep
The rice salad can be prepared ahead and stored separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook these skewers indoors?
Yes. A grill pan or chargrill pan works perfectly.
Can I use frozen prawns?
Absolutely. Thaw completely before cooking.
Is PERi-PERi sauce very spicy?
Heat levels vary by brand. Use a mild version if preferred.
Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate a few hours before cooking.
Nutritional Highlights
Per serving, this recipe provides approximately:
- 41.5g protein
- 526 calories
- Healthy fats
- Fibre-rich grains
- Fresh vegetables
Final Thoughts
These Prawn and Chorizo Skewers with Quick Rice Salad deliver the perfect balance of smoky, spicy and fresh flavours. Easy enough for a weeknight meal and impressive enough for entertaining, this recipe is a fantastic addition to any seafood lover’s collection.
