Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk is like a tropical vacation for your taste buds. Imagine succulent shrimp bathed in a creamy, fragrant coconut sauce with the warm zing of garlic – pure bliss! The aroma wafting from the kitchen will have your neighbors knocking on your door, begging for a taste. For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.

This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy dinner or serving it at a summer barbecue, Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk promises to impress. Trust me, once you taste this delightful creation, you’ll want to make it part of your regular dinner rotation. Get ready for an amazing flavor explosion! For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk offers effortless preparation that even novice cooks can master
- With its rich and comforting flavors, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate
- Visually stunning with vibrant colors, it’s sure to be the star of any gathering
- Perfectly versatile, serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside crusty bread for dipping
I remember the first time I made Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk for my family. The smiles on their faces were priceless as they devoured every last bite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Shrimp: Look for plump, juicy shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a mild ocean scent.
Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for a rich and creamy sauce that elevates the dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide an aromatic kick; feel free to adjust based on your love for garlic!
Onion: A sweet onion will caramelize beautifully and add depth to the sauce.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds vibrant color and a sweet crunch that complements the shrimp.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the coconut milk.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds an herbaceous note that enhances the dish’s tropical vibe.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if needed; rinse them under cold water until clean. Chop your onions and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces while mincing several cloves of garlic.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Toss in chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook until it turns golden and releases its aroma.
Add Vegetables: Next, stir in diced red bell pepper with a pinch of salt. Sauté until the bell pepper softens slightly while keeping its vibrant color – around 3-5 minutes should do.
Incorporate Coconut Milk: Pour in full-fat coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir well to combine all those lovely flavors while letting it bubble softly for about 5 minutes.
Add Shrimp & Seasonings: Toss in fresh shrimp along with lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until shrimp turns pink and opaque – about 4-6 minutes should suffice; don’t overcook them!
Finish with Fresh Herbs: Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over your dish right before serving to add vibrancy and flavor. Serve immediately over rice or noodles for an unforgettable meal!
You Must Know
- Garlic shrimp in coconut milk is a delightful dish that combines savory and creamy flavors
- The aroma of garlic mingling with the rich coconut creates an irresistible scent that fills your kitchen
- It’s simple and quick to make, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a weeknight treat
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, sauté garlic until fragrant, then add shrimp and pour in coconut milk for a creamy finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or tofu and add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to preserve texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your garlic shrimp in coconut milk shines, use fresh ingredients and don’t overcook the shrimp
- Remember, they should be juicy and tender
- For an extra kick, add chili flakes or fresh herbs just before serving
It was a rainy evening when I first tried making garlic shrimp in coconut milk. My friends were skeptical at first, but their empty plates spoke volumes about the magic of this dish!
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for garlic shrimp in coconut milk?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well; just thaw them before cooking for even results.
What can I serve with garlic shrimp in coconut milk?
Serve it over rice, quinoa, or enjoy it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers during cooking to increase heat.
Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk
Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk is a tropical delight that will transport your taste buds straight to paradise. This dish features plump, succulent shrimp enveloped in a creamy coconut milk sauce infused with the aromatic warmth of garlic. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an outdoor gathering, this recipe guarantees an unforgettable flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by peeling and deveining the shrimp; rinse under cold water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the onions until translucent (3–4 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook until golden.
- Stir in diced red bell pepper with a pinch of salt; sauté until slightly softened (3–5 minutes).
- Pour in coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add shrimp, lime juice, salt, and pepper; cook until shrimp turn pink and opaque (4–6 minutes).
- Finish with fresh cilantro before serving over rice or noodles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
Keywords: To enhance flavor, consider adding chili flakes for heat or swapping out shrimp for chicken or tofu. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat.