Delight in Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta: Quick Umami Bliss!

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

After a long day, I often find myself craving something that offers the comfort of home-cooked goodness without hours spent in the kitchen. That s where my Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta comes to the rescue. Imagine delicate angel hair pasta tossed in a silky sesame and soy sauce, enhanced by a creamy egg yolk that glistens beautifully. The crunch of nori crumble and succulent prawns elevate this dish to a whole new level, transforming an ordinary weeknight into an extraordinary dining experience.

This fusion-style pasta not only brings the rich umami flavors of Japanese cuisine to your table but also checks all the boxes for a quick and satisfying meal. In just minutes, you ll have a gourmet dish that impresses both your taste buds and anyone lucky enough to share it with you. Let s dive into this recipe and discover how simple ingredients can create a delicious masterpiece!

Why love Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta?

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.

Umami Flavor Explosion: The combination of nori, sesame, and soy sauce delivers a rich, savory taste that s distinctly satisfying.

Gourmet Experience: Impress your family or guests with restaurant-quality pasta, all made in the comfort of your kitchen.

Versatile Options: Easily swap prawns for chicken or tofu to cater to diet preferences, making it adaptable for all.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish is bound to win over both adventurous eaters and comfort food lovers alike.

Enjoy this culinary journey, and don t forget to explore variations to keep your meals exciting!

Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta Ingredients

For the Pasta

• Angel hair pasta Fine strands that coat beautifully in the sauce for a silky texture; use capellini if unavailable.

For the Sauce

• Roasted seaweed (nori) sheets Adds umami flavor and crunch when blended into a crumble; seasoned seaweed snacks make a convenient option.
• Soy sauce Provides savory depth; opting for low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness.
• Sesame oil Adds nuttiness; use toasted sesame oil for a stronger flavor.
• Garlic Offers aromatic richness; fresh cloves are preferred, but garlic powder can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
• Chili crisp oil Introduces warmth and texture; adjust amount based on your heat preference.
• Sugar Balances flavors in the sauce; feel free to omit for a less sweet profile.

For the Topping

• Egg yolk Creates a rich, glossy sauce without cream; ensure it s mixed into hot pasta off the heat.
• Prawns Adds sweetness and protein to the dish; fresh or frozen will work just remember to thaw frozen ones.
• Sesame seeds Contributes texture; may be omitted if not available.

This Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta will not only satisfy your cravings but also elevate your dinner experience effortlessly!

How to Make Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta

1. Prepare Nori Crumble: Blend the nori sheets along with sesame seeds until they are finely ground. In a large heatproof bowl, stir these with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, sugar, and the egg yolk until well combined.

2. Cook Pasta: Bring a pot of water to a boil and add a splash of soy sauce. Cook the angel hair pasta until just al dente, about 2-3 minutes for this delicate variety. Before draining, remember to reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.

3. Sear Prawns: In a non-stick pan, heat the chili crisp oil over medium heat. Season the prawns with salt and sauté for 1-2 minutes on each side until they are golden and cooked through.

4. Combine: Quickly toss the drained pasta with the nori sauce in the bowl, ensuring the egg yolk beautifully melds into a glossy coating. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency that clings to the noodles.

5. Serve: Portion the pasta into bowls, top generously with the seared prawns, drizzle with remaining chili oil, and finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor!

Optional: Garnish with sliced green onions for an extra pop of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta

• Fridge: Enjoy Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta fresh, as the dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Tightly cover to maintain flavor, but note the delicate texture will change.

• Freezer: Unfortunately, freezing is not recommended due to the egg yolk and fragile noodles, which do not reheat well.

• Reheating: If you must reheat, do so gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water to help regain moisture. However, the quality won t match the original.

• Make-Ahead Tips: Consider preparing the nori crumble in advance. Store it in an airtight jar and use it as a seasoning for other dishes throughout the week!

Expert Tips for Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta

• Use Hot Pasta: Ensure the pasta is piping hot when combined with the sauce; this helps the egg yolk emulsify properly, resulting in a glossy texture.

• Don t Overcook Prawns: Sear the prawns just until they turn golden, which usually takes 1-2 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them rubbery, losing their tender sweetness.

• Adjust Heat with Chili Oil: Start with a smaller amount of chili crisp oil if you re sensitive to spice. You can always add more to meet your heat preference.

• Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve at least 1 cup of the starchy cooking water. It s perfect for adjusting the sauce s consistency without adding extra ingredients.

• Make it Ahead: Create the nori crumble in advance and store it in an airtight container. It adds a delightful crunch to other dishes, like rice and veggies, too!

Enjoy your Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta and take these tips to heart for a delightful cooking experience!

What to Serve with Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta?

Pair your delightful pasta with these complementary dishes for a well-rounded meal experience.

• Steamed Greens: Fresh and lightly seasoned veggies like bok choy or spinach brighten the plate, balancing the richness of the pasta. Their vibrant color and crunch create a refreshing contrast for each bite.

• Crispy Tempura Vegetables: These light, crispy delights add a playful crunch that pairs beautifully with the umami notes in the pasta. Each bite delivers a satisfying texture, enhancing your dining experience.

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread perfectly complements the dish. The rich garlic flavor and crispy exterior make it irresistible, ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce.

• Asian Slaw: A colorful mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing offers a refreshing crunch. This bright slaw enhances the umami flavors of the pasta while adding a zesty note to your meal.

• Chilled Sake or Green Tea: Pairing your dinner with chilled sake adds an elegant touch. Alternatively, a refreshing green tea helps cleanse the palate and enhances the flavors beautifully.

• Mochi Ice Cream: For dessert, opt for mochi ice cream. Its chewy texture and sweet flavor offer a delightful end to your meal, keeping with the fusion theme of your dinner.

Elevate your dinner table with these pairings, making your Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta a star attraction!

Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists, allowing your creativity to shine!

• Protein Swap: Substitute prawns with grilled chicken or crispy tofu for a hearty alternative. Each option brings its own character to the dish.

• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta in place of angel hair to ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious meal without worry.

• Veggie Boost: Add colorful vegetables like snap peas, bell peppers, or spinach for an extra layer of nutrition and vibrant color on your plate.

• Spicy Kick: Increase the chili crisp oil or add crushed red pepper flakes for those who crave a fiery flavor profile.

• Creaminess Upgrade: Stir in a splash of coconut milk for a creamy sauce that adds a tropical hint and richness to each bite.

• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to bring a refreshing, aromatic layer to the dish, enhancing its overall appeal.

• Umami Chips: Sprinkle in additional umami by adding toasted mushrooms or even some finely minced anchovies for an unexpected depth of flavor.

• Nutty Variance: Drizzle in a touch of peanut or almond butter along with the sauce for a nutty flavor packed with richness that complements the prawns beautifully.

Enjoy this culinary canvas and make the Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta entirely your own!

Make Ahead Options

These Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta preparations are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can prepare the nori crumble and sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully. Simply blend the nori and sesame, then mix in your sauce ingredients and refrigerate until you re ready to cook. The cooked angel hair pasta can be prepped up to 3 hours before serving; just toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. When you re ready to enjoy your meal, sauté the prawns and combine everything just before serving, ensuring that each component retains its quality and flavor resulting in a restaurant-worthy dish with minimal effort!

Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best nori sheets?
Feel free to opt for nori sheets that have a rich green color and are free from dark spots or tears. High-quality nori should be crisp, not stale or overly brittle. If you re short on time, using pre-packaged seasoned seaweed snacks can work beautifully for the crumble.

How should I store leftover Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta?
Unfortunately, Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta is best enjoyed fresh and should be consumed within a day if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The delicate texture and glossy sauce may not hold up well over time, becoming less enjoyable.

Can I freeze Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta?
Freezing this dish is not recommended due to the egg yolk and cooked prawns, which may result in an undesirable texture once thawed. Instead, prepare the nori crumble in advance, as it can be stored in an airtight jar for up to 2 weeks and used to add flavor to other meals.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce thicker than desired, simply add the reserved pasta cooking water, one tablespoon at a time, while tossing the pasta until you achieve your ideal creamy consistency. The starchy water really helps to enhance the sauce s texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe contains seafood; if you have seafood allergies, you can easily substitute prawns with grilled chicken or tofu. Consider using gluten-free pasta if needed for those with gluten sensitivities. Always double-check all ingredient labels to ensure they align with any dietary restrictions.

How can I add more vegetables to my Nori Sesame Prawn Pasta?
I often recommend adding vegetables like snap peas, chopped bell peppers, or even spinach. Simply toss them in the pot during the last minute of pasta cooking to keep them vibrant and slightly crisp, elevating the dish s flavor, nutrition, and visual appeal.