If you are craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and a creamy, tropical twist, this Coconut Lime Shrimp Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful harmony of tangy lime, rich coconut milk, and succulent shrimp, all elevated by fragrant herbs like cilantro and basil. Every bite feels like a mini vacation, combining the freshness of citrus with the smoothness of coconut in a way that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe promises a taste adventure that’s surprisingly simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is straightforward but crucial for capturing the authentic flavors and smooth texture of this dish. Each item plays a key role, from the savory shrimp delivering protein and sweetness, to the aromatic herbs and spices enhancing the overall depth and brightness.
- Olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing shallots and releasing their sweet notes.
- Shallot (chopped finely): Adds a subtle onion flavor that melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Medium shrimp (peeled & deveined): The star of the dish, tender and quick-cooking.
- Garlic (minced): Brings a punch of warmth and aroma.
- Grated ginger: Offers a hint of spicy zest that complements the lime.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: Builds a savory liquid foundation without overpowering the dish.
- Juice & zest of 1 lime: Infuses freshness and a bright citrus tang essential to the flavor profile.
- Full fat coconut milk: Creates a creamy, luscious sauce with tropical richness.
- Brown sugar: Balances acidity with a gentle sweetness.
- Fresh cilantro (chopped): Adds a herbaceous lift and slight citrus notes.
- Fresh basil leaves (torn): Contributes an elegantly sweet and peppery aroma.
- Salt & pepper: To season and bring out all the vibrant flavors.
- Cooked rice (optional): A comforting side that soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully.
How to Make Coconut Lime Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by cooking your rice following the package instructions if you’re planning to serve the shrimp alongside it. Rice is a fantastic companion here because it absorbs the luxurious coconut lime sauce, making every bite a cozy experience.
Step 2: Sauté Shallots
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the finely chopped shallots and let them sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Watch for that lovely light brown color—they should become soft and slightly caramelized, which adds a sweet depth to the dish.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger
Once the shallots are fragrant and lightly browned, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook these together for roughly a minute so their aromas can bloom but don’t let them burn; this step is key for layering those fresh, vibrant flavors.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then stir in the fresh lime juice and zest along with the creamy coconut milk and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This will meld the flavors together and thicken the sauce slightly, making it silky and luscious.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp and Herbs
Drop the peeled shrimp into the fragrant sauce along with the chopped cilantro and torn basil leaves. Cook everything for another 5 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp—they should be tender and juicy. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Once everything is ready, serve the sauce and shrimp hot. This Coconut Lime Shrimp Recipe tastes best fresh, while the shrimp are juicy and the sauce is at its creamiest peak.
How to Serve Coconut Lime Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your presentation by sprinkling extra fresh cilantro or basil leaves on top right before serving. A few thin lime wedges alongside add an inviting pop of color and let diners add a splash of citrus to their liking.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple steamed jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up the creamy coconut lime sauce and balances the spices. For a lighter option, try serving it over cauliflower rice or a bed of sautéed greens like spinach or kale to add some extra texture and nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing touch, serve the shrimp in hollowed-out lime shells or small coconut bowls. You can also use this flavorful sauce as a topping for rice paper rolls or spoon it over grilled vegetables to add maximum flavor impact in a fun, unexpected way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Coconut Lime Shrimp Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days, though the shrimp are always best fresh to maintain their tender texture and vibrant flavor.
Freezing
While the shrimp can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze it, place the shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe container and use within 1 month for the best taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Stir occasionally until warmed through. Avoid using a microwave if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery and the sauce separate.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Coconut Lime Shrimp Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work just fine. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors perfectly.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Coconut Lime Shrimp Recipe is not spicy by default. It has a gentle warmth from the ginger but is overall mild and refreshing. You can add chili flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
Can I substitute coconut milk with a lighter version?
You can, but full-fat coconut milk gives the sauce its signature creamy richness. Using a lighter version may result in a thinner sauce and less depth of flavor.
How long does it take to make this dish?
The recipe takes about 30 minutes in total—10 minutes prep and 20 minutes cooking—making it a quick yet impressive meal option for busy days or unexpected guests.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs like cilantro or basil?
Fresh herbs add an important burst of flavor, but if unavailable, you can use dried herbs sparingly or garnish with a squeeze of additional lime juice to brighten the dish.
Final Thoughts
Ready to brighten up your dinner routine? This Coconut Lime Shrimp Recipe brings such an effortless yet exciting combination of flavors to your table, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again. It’s simple, fresh, and downright delicious, perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself on any night. Give it a go—you might just discover your new favorite weeknight dinner!
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Coconut Lime Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
This vibrant Coconut Lime Shrimp recipe features tender shrimp simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce infused with fresh lime, garlic, ginger, and aromatic herbs. Perfect served over steamed rice, it’s a quick and flavorful dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons shallot, chopped finely
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- Juice & zest of 1 lime
- 1 (13.5 ounce) can full fat coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 6 large leaves fresh basil, torn
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Rice (Optional): If serving with rice, cook it according to the package directions to have it ready as the shrimp cooks.
- Sauté Shallots: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped shallots and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly browned and fragrant.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about one minute until their aromas are released but not browned.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, lime juice and zest, coconut milk, and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook gently for 10 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Cook Shrimp and Herbs: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp along with the chopped cilantro and torn basil leaves. Cook for another 5 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, being careful not to overcook. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the coconut lime shrimp immediately, ideally over the prepared rice, to enjoy a rich and refreshing meal.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes when sautéing the garlic and ginger.
- Use fresh lime juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with jasmine or basmati rice.
- Vegetarian adaptation: substitute shrimp with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
