If a barbecued prawn isn't synonymous with Australia Day, I'm not sure what is. Well that's not exactly true is it, because us Aussies certainly do know what else is. We'd better include the lamington, the saucy sausage roll, a meat pie and lamb chops. We can also expect a spattering of zinc cream, beach cricket, sizzling barbecues, (temporary) Aussie flag tattoos and the odd chilled ale. Whatever the case the 26th January is a day of relaxed celebration.

Which takes me onto this simple prawn recipe. If you like to keep things fuss free and easy in the entertainment and preparation stakes you'd better give these prawns a run. Whizz up the marinade in no time at all and let them sit pretty for an hour. Follow that by a swift 6 minutes on the BBQ and your guests will be grinning from ear to sun kissed ear. 

Makes 7-10 skewers

500-600 grams prawns, peeled 
1/2 cup full cream coconut milk
Zest and juice of 1 lime plus 1 lime for serving
1 long red chilli, finely diced
2 tablespoons tamari
2 garlic cloves, crushed
3 kaffir lime leaves, finely chopped
1 heaped teaspoon coconut sugar (optional)
Pinch sea salt and pepper

7-8 skewers 
Olive oil for barbecue

In a bowl, combine all ingredients bar the prawns. Stir the prawns through the mix, cover and pop in the fridge for at least an hour. 

Now soak your skewers in a bowl of water to prevent them from burning. 

Remove the prawns from the fridge and gently thread onto your skewers. Heat your barbecue to a medium high heat and grease the plate with olive oil. Cook the prawns for approximately 3 minutes each side or until cooked to your likening. 

Serve with extra lime wedges and a scrumptious side salad (a tasty recipe is to follow next Monday!)

If you're after some more Australia Day recipe creations, you might like to take a look at our healthy Asian slaw, or our zucchini, peas and preserved lemon quinoa salad.  And how about a pink grapefruit, apple mint granita to cool the guests down? And here's a tip, if you would like to save this recipe for later, why not pin it to your healthy food board on Pinterest. 

Don't hesitate to let me know how you go with this prawn recipe in the comments below, I love to hear your feedback!