Marinated Raw Fresh Prawns | Italian Crudo di Gamberi

Fresh prawns, extra virgin olive oil, lemon, and parsley — that’s all you need for this elegant Italian crudo. Light, refreshing, and bursting with the pure taste of the sea.

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About This Dish

Raw marinated prawns, known in Italy as “crudo di gamberi,” are a beloved delicacy from the southern coasts. This simple preparation celebrates freshness — a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a splash of lemon, and aromatic parsley bring out the pure, sweet flavor of the prawns.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

Fresh Prawns:	200 g (≈ 7 oz), very fresh
Extra Virgin Olive Oil:	3 tbsp
Lemon Juice:	½ lemon (≈ 1 tbsp)
Garlic:	1 clove, finely sliced
Fresh Parsley:	1 tbsp, finely chopped
Salt:	To taste

How to Make It

Prep Time: 10 mins | Marination: 15 mins | Total Time: 25 mins

Step 1: Clean the prawns by removing the head, shell, and vein. Pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Arrange the cleaned prawns on a plate in a single layer.
Step 3: Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Step 4: Add thin slices of garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt.
Step 5: Cover and let marinate in the fridge for 15 minutes before serving.
Step 6: Serve as an antipasto with crusty bread or on a chilled platter for an elegant starter.

Tucci’s Tips

Always use the freshest prawns possible — quality is everything for crudo.

Keep the marination short to maintain the prawn’s natural sweetness.

Serve immediately after marinating for the best flavor and texture.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or fresh red chili.
Citrus Blend: Use a mix of lemon and orange juice for a sweeter touch.
Herb Upgrade: Try fresh dill or basil instead of parsley for a different aroma.

Did You Know?

Historical Fact: Crudo di mare has deep roots in Southern Italy, particularly along the Amalfi Coast, where fishermen prepared raw fish and seafood straight from the catch with just olive oil and lemon.

Fun Fact: Italians often pair raw prawns with a glass of sparkling Prosecco or Falanghina for a perfect aperitivo experience.

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Storage & Thank You

This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Do not store or freeze raw marinated prawns for safety reasons.

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