If you’re craving a dish that’s both quick and bursting with exotic flavors, this Creamy Coconut Shrimp is the answer. The tender, juicy shrimp soak up the rich coconut sauce infused with fragrant garlic, fresh basil, and a hint of lime. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory, bringing a taste of Thai cuisine to your table in just 20 minutes.
This one-skillet meal is not only simple to make but also highly versatile. Serve it over jasmine rice for a comforting meal, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even with noodles for an extra indulgence. The light yet luxurious sauce makes every bite a delight. Whether for a cozy dinner at home or a special weekend treat, this dish is sure to impress!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
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2 pounds raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails on or off
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1 small yellow onion, finely diced
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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8 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
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¼ teaspoon ground ginger
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14 ounces can diced tomatoes, well drained
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1 cup canned unsweetened coconut milk (shake the can before opening)
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Juice of 1 lime
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Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
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Chopped fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
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Add shrimp to the hot oil and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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Wipe down the skillet and set it over medium-high heat. Add the remaining olive oil.
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Sauté the diced onion for 3 minutes until softened.
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Stir in garlic, basil, and ginger; cook for 20 seconds until fragrant.
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Add drained diced tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes until slightly softened.
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Stir in the coconut milk, bring to a simmer, and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
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Return shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1 more minute until heated through.
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Remove from heat, squeeze lime juice over the shrimp, and garnish with fresh cilantro and basil. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 462 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Creamy Coconut Shrimp – A Thai-Inspired Delight for Your Dinner Table
Seafood lovers, get ready to indulge in a dish that is both comforting and exotic Creamy Coconut Shrimp. This Thai inspired recipe brings together tender shrimp, creamy coconut milk, fragrant basil, and a hint of lime for a beautifully balanced dish that is both rich and refreshing.
Not only is this recipe bursting with flavor, but it is also incredibly simple to make. With just one skillet and 20 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant quality meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Let’s dive into what makes this dish a must-try, including its origins, variations, serving suggestions, health benefits, and why it deserves a spot in your meal rotation.
The Origins of Creamy Coconut Shrimp
While coconut-based seafood dishes are found in various global cuisines, this recipe takes inspiration from Thai cooking, where coconut milk is frequently used to create rich, flavorful sauces. Thai cuisine is known for its balance of sweet, spicy, sour, and savory elements, and this dish embodies that philosophy perfectly.
In Thailand, coconut milk is often paired with shrimp in curries, soups, and stir-fries, highlighting the seafood’s natural sweetness. This creamy coconut shrimp recipe simplifies those flavors into an easy-to-make dish that brings a little bit of that tropical magic to your home kitchen.
What Makes This Dish So Special?
There are countless shrimp recipes out there, so what sets this one apart? Here are a few reasons why Creamy Coconut Shrimp is a standout:
1. Quick and Easy
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s ready in just 20 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family, hosting guests, or just need a fast, satisfying meal, this dish delivers without requiring hours in the kitchen.
2. One-Pan Wonder
Nobody likes a pile of dishes after cooking. Since this dish is made in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze. Less time washing up means more time enjoying your meal!
3. Rich, Creamy, and Flavorful
The combination of coconut milk, garlic, basil, and lime creates a sauce that is silky, aromatic, and slightly tangy. It clings perfectly to the shrimp, making every bite a delight.
4. Versatile and Customizable
While this dish is fantastic on its own, you can easily customize it by adjusting the spices, vegetables, or serving options. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy free, low carb, or keto friendly depending on how you serve it.
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Coconut Shrimp
This dish is so versatile that it pairs well with various sides and serving styles. Here are some great ideas:
1. Over Rice
A bed of jasmine rice is the perfect way to soak up the creamy coconut sauce. If you want a lower carb option, cauliflower rice is an excellent substitute that still complements the dish beautifully.
2. With Noodles
For an extra indulgent experience, serve the shrimp over rice noodles, zucchini noodles, or even spaghetti squash. The creamy sauce coats the noodles perfectly, creating a luxurious texture.
3. As a Low-Carb Meal
If you’re looking for a lighter meal, simply enjoy the shrimp on its own or with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas.
4. With Crusty Bread
A thick slice of crusty bread (like sourdough or French bread) is fantastic for mopping up every last bit of that creamy coconut sauce.
5. As a Topping for Salads
For a fresh twist, serve the shrimp over a bed of mixed greens, avocado slices, and cherry tomatoes, drizzled with a light vinaigrette.
Variations and Additions
One of the best things about Creamy Coconut Shrimp is how easy it is to customize to your preferences. Here are some fun ways to switch things up:
1. Add More Spice
If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes, sriracha, or Thai red curry paste to the sauce. This will give the dish a nice kick while enhancing its Thai-inspired flavors.
2. Make It a Curry
For a richer, spicier version, add a tablespoon of red or green Thai curry paste to the skillet before adding the coconut milk. Serve it over rice for a creamy coconut shrimp curry.
3. Include More Vegetables
Boost the nutritional value of the dish by adding spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or snow peas to the skillet. They will absorb the flavors of the sauce and add a nice crunch.
4. Try a Citrus Twist
While lime juice adds a refreshing tang, you can experiment with lemon juice or orange zest for a slightly different citrus note.
5. Swap the Protein
Not a fan of shrimp? This creamy coconut sauce pairs beautifully with chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Health Benefits of Creamy Coconut Shrimp
Aside from being absolutely delicious, Creamy Coconut Shrimp is also packed with nutritional benefits:
High in Protein – Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, helping to build and repair muscles while keeping you full.
Rich in Healthy Fats – Coconut milk contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are known to support brain health and metabolism.
Low in Carbs – This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a keto or low-carb diet.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals – Shrimp provides essential nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health.
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free – This dish is perfect for those with dietary restrictions, as it contains no gluten or dairy while still being rich and creamy.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dish that is easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion, Creamy Coconut Shrimp is the answer. The combination of tender shrimp, velvety coconut sauce, and fragrant herbs creates a meal that feels gourmet yet requires minimal effort.
With its quick cooking time, simple ingredients, and rich flavors, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights, date nights, or even meal prep. Plus, it’s highly versatile whether you prefer it over rice, noodles, or veggies, this recipe can be adapted to suit your taste and dietary needs.
So why wait? Grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a plate of Creamy Coconut Shrimp tonight!