Name: Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1¼ lbs jumbo shrimp; 1 tsp olive oil; 1 red bell pepper; 4 Scallions; ½ cup cilantro; 4 cloves garlic; ½ tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp red pepper flakes; 14½ oz tomatoes; 14 oz coconut milk; ½ lime

This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of garlic and shrimp with the creamy goodness of coconut milk. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it's quick to prepare and absolutely bursting with vibrant colors and tastes.

Photos of Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found, you might need to visit the supermarket for jumbo shrimp, coconut milk, and red bell pepper. Fresh cilantro and scallions might also be items you need to pick up if you don’t usually keep them stocked.

Ingredients For Garlic Shrimp In Coconut Milk Recipe

Jumbo shrimp: Large, succulent shrimp that provide the main protein for this dish.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a subtle, fruity flavor.

Red bell pepper: Adds color and a mild, sweet flavor to the dish.

Scallions: Also known as green onions, they provide a mild onion flavor.

Cilantro: Fresh herb that adds a vibrant, citrusy flavor.

Garlic: Adds a pungent, savory depth of flavor.

Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a touch of heat and spice.

Tomatoes: Contribute a rich, slightly tangy base to the sauce.

Coconut milk: Adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness.

Lime: Provides a fresh, zesty finish to the dish.

One reader, Gideon Cottrell says:

This garlic shrimp in coconut milk recipe is a delightful blend of flavors. The creamy coconut milk pairs perfectly with the succulent shrimp, and the hint of lime adds a refreshing touch. It's a quick, easy, and delicious dish that has become a favorite in our household!

Gideon Cottrell

Techniques for Preparing Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk

How to sauté: Heat oil in a pot and cook red peppers until soft. How to chop scallions: Slice the white parts of the scallions for cooking and reserve the green parts for garnish. How to mince garlic: Finely chop garlic cloves for even distribution in the dish. How to simmer: Cook the sauce on low heat to blend flavors and thicken. How to cook shrimp: Add shrimp to the sauce and cook until they turn opaque and are cooked through. How to juice a lime: Squeeze the juice from half a lime to add to the dish before serving.

How To Make Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk

Serve with a cup of steaming rice, simmer this garlic shrimp in coconut milk, tomatoes, and cilantro for a quick 30-minute savory and creamy dinner.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1¼lbsjumbo shrimp,peeled and deviened, weight after peeled
1tspolive oil
1red bell pepper,diced
4scallions,thinly sliced, white and green parts separated
½cupcilantro,chopped
4clovesgarlic,minced
½tspkosher salt
½tspred pepper flakes,crushed, or to taste
14½oztomatoes,(1 can) diced
14ozcoconut milk,(1 can) light
½lime,squeezed

Instructions

In a medium pot, heat oil on medium-low heat. Add red peppers and sauté until soft, about 4 minutes.
Add scallion whites, ¼ cup cilantro, garlic, and red pepper flakes, cook for 1 minute.
Add tomatoes, coconut milk, and ¼ teaspoon salt, increase heat and bring to a boil, cover and simmer on low for about 10 minutes to let the flavors blend and to thicken the sauce.
Add shrimp and cook 5 to 6 minutes, until opaque and cooked through.
Add lime juice.
To serve, divide equally among 4 bowls, about 1¼ cups then top with scallions and cilantro.

Nutrition

Calories: 346.33kcal
Fat: 24.09g
Saturated Fat: 19.34g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.02g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.90g
Carbohydrates: 12.99g
Fiber: 2.63g
Sugar: 4.53g
Protein: 23.07g
Cholesterol: 178.60mg
Sodium: 937.36mg
Calcium: 127.22mg
Potassium: 759.03mg
Iron: 4.35mg
Vitamin A: 182.10µg
Vitamin C: 59.83mg

Pro Tip for Making Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk

To ensure your shrimp are perfectly cooked, add them to the simmering coconut milk mixture and watch closely. Shrimp cook quickly, turning opaque and pink when done. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so remove them from heat as soon as they are just cooked through.

Time-Saving Tips for This Shrimp Recipe

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop the red bell pepper, scallions, and cilantro ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using pre-minced garlic instead of peeling and chopping fresh cloves.

Opt for canned tomatoes: Use canned tomatoes to avoid the hassle of peeling and chopping fresh ones.

Quick shrimp prep: Buy pre-peeled and deveined shrimp to cut down on preparation time.

One-pot cooking: Use a single pot to minimize cleanup and keep everything simple.

Substitute Ingredients For Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk Recipe

jumbo shrimp - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can provide a similar protein content and texture when cut into bite-sized pieces.
olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil complements the coconut milk and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell pepper has a similar sweetness and texture.
scallions - Substitute with leeks: Leeks offer a mild onion flavor similar to scallions.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley provides a fresh, slightly peppery taste that can replace cilantro.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can mimic the taste of garlic.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and flavor profile.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper provides a similar level of heat.
tomatoes - Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can provide a similar flavor and consistency.
coconut milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used for a lighter, nutty flavor, though it will be less creamy.
lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor.

Presenting Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk

Use elegant plating: Arrange the shrimp in a circular pattern on a pristine white plate, creating a visually appealing focal point.
Layer flavors: Pour the coconut milk sauce gently over the shrimp, allowing it to pool slightly around the edges for a sophisticated look.
Add vibrant colors: Garnish with finely chopped red bell pepper and scallion greens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Highlight textures: Sprinkle a few whole cilantro leaves on top for a touch of elegance and a hint of texture contrast.
Finish with a citrus touch: Drizzle a few drops of lime juice around the plate to enhance the flavors and add a zesty finish.
Serve with precision: Use a small ladle to ensure each portion has an equal amount of shrimp and coconut milk sauce, showcasing the balance of the dish.
Create height: Stack a few shrimp on top of each other to add dimension and height to the presentation, making it more visually appealing.
Use a clean edge: Wipe the edges of the plate clean before serving to maintain a professional and polished appearance.

Essential Tools for Making Garlic Shrimp

Medium pot: Used to heat the oil and cook the ingredients together, allowing the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients in the pot without scratching the surface.
Chef's knife: Essential for chopping the red bell pepper, scallions, cilantro, and garlic.
Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for chopping all the vegetables and herbs.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes accurately.
Measuring cups: Necessary for measuring the cilantro, tomatoes, and coconut milk.
Citrus juicer: Helps to extract the juice from the lime efficiently.
Serving bowls: Used to divide and serve the finished dish equally among four portions.
Tongs: Useful for adding and turning the shrimp in the pot to ensure they cook evenly.
Ladle: Perfect for serving the garlic shrimp in coconut milk into bowls.

Storing and Freezing Garlic Shrimp

Let the garlic shrimp in coconut milk cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled dish to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag.
If using a container, make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Refrigerator storage: The garlic shrimp in coconut milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer storage: The dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen garlic shrimp in coconut milk in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the thawed dish in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If the sauce appears too thick after thawing and reheating, add a splash of coconut milk or water to thin it out.
Avoid refreezing the dish after thawing to maintain the best texture and flavor of the shrimp and sauce.

Reheating Leftover Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk

Reheat the garlic shrimp in coconut milk in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method helps to preserve the texture of the shrimp and prevents them from becoming rubbery.
If the sauce has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of coconut milk or water to thin it out while reheating. Stir well to combine and ensure even heating.
For a quicker reheating method, use the microwave. Transfer the garlic shrimp in coconut milk to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the shrimp and sauce are heated through.
If you have stored the shrimp and sauce separately, reheat the sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat until simmering. Then, add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method helps to prevent the shrimp from overcooking and becoming tough.
To add a fresh twist to your leftover garlic shrimp in coconut milk, squeeze some fresh lime juice over the dish just before serving. The citrus will brighten up the flavors and give the dish a new lease on life.
If you want to turn your leftover garlic shrimp in coconut milk into a new meal, try serving it over a bed of freshly cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta. The starch will soak up the flavorful sauce and make for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Interesting Trivia About Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk

A unique aspect of this garlic shrimp in coconut milk recipe is its blend of flavors from different cuisines. The coconut milk adds a creamy, tropical touch, while the garlic and red pepper flakes provide a hint of spice, making it a delightful fusion of sweet and savory.

Budget-Friendly Garlic Shrimp Recipe

When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of this garlic shrimp in coconut milk recipe, it scores a solid 8 out of 10. The primary ingredients like shrimp, coconut milk, and red bell pepper are moderately priced, while staples like garlic, scallions, and cilantro are quite affordable. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25 USD, making it a reasonably priced dish for a delightful and flavorful meal.

Is This Shrimp Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This garlic shrimp in coconut milk recipe is a relatively healthy dish with several nutritious ingredients. Here's why:

Shrimp is a lean protein source, low in calories and rich in essential nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.
The recipe includes vegetables like red bell pepper, scallions, and tomatoes, which provide vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.
Coconut milk, although high in saturated fat, contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that may boost metabolism and support weight management.
Garlic and cilantro offer various health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the dish even healthier:

The recipe calls for olive oil, but you could opt for a healthier cooking oil like avocado oil or coconut oil, which have higher smoke points and better fatty acid profiles.
To reduce the saturated fat content, you can use light coconut milk instead of regular coconut milk.
Increase the vegetable content by adding more nutrient-dense options like spinach, kale, or zucchini to boost the fiber and vitamin content of the dish.
Serve the shrimp and sauce over a bed of quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a more balanced meal that includes complex carbohydrates and additional fiber.
Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to add more flavor and potential health benefits.

Editor's Take on This Garlic Shrimp Dish

This garlic shrimp in coconut milk recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors. The creamy coconut milk pairs beautifully with the succulent shrimp, while the red bell pepper and scallions add a fresh crunch. The cilantro and lime juice provide a zesty finish, balancing the richness of the dish. The use of red pepper flakes introduces a subtle heat that enhances the overall taste. It's a well-rounded, vibrant dish that's both comforting and exotic. Perfect for a quick yet impressive meal.

Enhance Your Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mango Avocado Salad: Imagine a refreshing salad that combines the creamy richness of avocado with the sweet, tropical notes of mango. Tossed with a zesty lime vinaigrette, this side-dish adds a burst of color and flavor that perfectly complements the garlic shrimp in coconut milk.

Coconut Rice: Enhance the tropical vibes with a fragrant bowl of coconut rice. The subtle sweetness of coconut milk infuses each grain, creating a harmonious pairing with the savory and spicy notes of the shrimp dish.

Grilled Pineapple: Take your taste buds on a journey with grilled pineapple. The caramelized edges and juicy interior of this fruit add a delightful contrast to the creamy and spicy elements of the main course. A sprinkle of chili powder can elevate this side-dish to new heights.

Spicy Black Beans: For a hearty and flavorful addition, consider spicy black beans. Simmered with onions, garlic, and a touch of cumin, these beans provide a protein-packed complement that balances the richness of the coconut milk sauce.

Papaya Salsa: Brighten up your plate with a vibrant papaya salsa. The sweet and tangy papaya chunks, mixed with red onion, cilantro, and a hint of jalapeño, create a refreshing contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.

Similar Recipes to Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk

Thai Green Curry with Chicken: Dive into the exotic flavors of Thai cuisine with this aromatic green curry. Tender chicken pieces are simmered in a rich coconut milk base, infused with green curry paste, bamboo shoots, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Serve over steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal.

Mango Coconut Shrimp: Experience a tropical twist with Mango Coconut Shrimp. Juicy shrimp are cooked in a creamy coconut milk sauce, complemented by the sweetness of fresh mango chunks. Garnished with cilantro and a squeeze of lime, this dish is a delightful balance of sweet and savory.

Spicy Coconut Chicken Soup: Warm up with a bowl of Spicy Coconut Chicken Soup. This comforting soup features tender chicken pieces, mushrooms, and baby corn in a spicy coconut milk broth. Infused with lemongrass, ginger, and chili peppers, it's a perfect blend of heat and flavor.

Coconut Lime Fish Tacos: Take your taco night to the next level with Coconut Lime Fish Tacos. Flaky white fish is marinated in coconut milk and lime juice, then grilled to perfection. Serve in warm tortillas with a crunchy slaw and a drizzle of cilantro lime crema.

Coconut Curry Vegetables: Enjoy a hearty and healthy meal with Coconut Curry Vegetables. A variety of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots are cooked in a fragrant coconut milk curry sauce. Serve over brown rice or quinoa for a satisfying vegetarian option.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement This Shrimp Dish

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start your meal. Imagine portobello mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are baked until tender, and the filling becomes a creamy, flavorful bite. Top them with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for an elegant touch. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette rubbed with garlic. Top each slice with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Add a touch of balsamic glaze for a hint of sweetness and a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavors. This simple yet flavorful appetizer is perfect for showcasing the freshness of your ingredients and setting the tone for a delicious meal.

Desserts:

Mango Sticky Rice: Indulge in a delightful fusion of flavors with Mango Sticky Rice. This classic Thai dessert combines the creamy richness of coconut milk-infused sticky rice with the natural sweetness of ripe mango slices. The rice, cooked to perfection, absorbs the luscious coconut milk, creating a velvety texture that pairs beautifully with the juicy, fragrant mango. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or mung beans adds a delightful crunch, while a drizzle of extra coconut milk enhances the overall creaminess. Serve this dessert warm or at room temperature for a truly satisfying end to your meal.

Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Experience a decadent yet healthy treat with Chocolate Avocado Mousse. This velvety dessert combines the rich, smooth texture of ripe avocados with the deep, intense flavor of dark chocolate. The avocados provide a creamy base that blends seamlessly with the chocolate, creating a mousse that is both indulgent and nutritious. A touch of vanilla and a hint of sea salt elevate the flavors, while a sprinkle of cacao nibs or fresh berries adds a delightful contrast in texture. Serve this mousse chilled for a refreshing and guilt-free dessert option.

Why trust this Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk Recipe:

This recipe for garlic shrimp in coconut milk is a delightful blend of flavors that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. The combination of juicy shrimp, creamy coconut milk, and fresh cilantro creates a rich and satisfying dish. The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat, while the lime juice provides a refreshing tang. With easy-to-follow instructions and readily available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust this recipe to deliver a delicious and impressive meal every time.

Want to share your experience making this Garlic Shrimp in Coconut Milk recipe or have any tweaks to suggest? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the discussion!

FAQ:

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like a bit more heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a chopped fresh chili pepper. Just be careful not to overpower the other flavors.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid adding extra water to the dish.

What can I serve with garlic shrimp in coconut milk?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or even a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it with a simple green salad.

Can I substitute the coconut milk with something else?

If you're not a fan of coconut milk or have an allergy, you can use heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture might change slightly.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.