Spicy Coconut Lime Shrimp: A 30-Minute Dinner Full of Flavor

Coconut Lime Shrimp: A Tropical Weeknight Delight

Looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that feels like a tropical escape? This Coconut Lime Shrimp recipe has you covered. With tender shrimp cooked in a creamy coconut milk sauce, brightened by the zing of fresh lime and a hint of heat from red chili flakes, it’s the perfect balance of savory and fresh. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes or less, perfect for those busy evenings.
  • Flavor-Packed: A rich coconut milk sauce with a burst of citrus from lime and a hint of spice from red chili flakes.
  • Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with protein, healthy fats, and fresh ingredients, this dish is a nourishing dinner option.

Serve it over jasmine rice or any grain you prefer, and you’ve got a wholesome, satisfying meal that everyone will love!


Ingredients:

  • 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 orange bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for richness)
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 2 limes (zested and juiced)
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (fresh)
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste for spice)

Instructions:

Step 1: Sear the Shrimp

  • Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer.
  • Sear for about 2 minutes per side until the shrimp turns pink and slightly crispy on the outside.
  • Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

  • Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the chopped red onion and orange bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
  • Add butter and grated ginger. Continue sautéing until the butter melts and the ginger releases its aroma—about 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Coconut Sauce

  • Pour in the coconut milk, followed by the juice of 2 limes and lime zest. Stir to combine and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer.
  • Add in the chopped cilantro, salt, black pepper, turmeric, and red chili flakes. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes to meld the flavors together.

Step 4: Add Shrimp Back In

  • Once the sauce has thickened slightly, return the shrimp to the pan. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the shrimp to absorb the delicious coconut-lime flavors. The shrimp should be cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Serve

  • Serve the Coconut Lime Shrimp over a bed of jasmine rice (or any grain you prefer like quinoa or cauliflower rice).
  • Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and lime wedges for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Tips for Success:

  • Adjust the Spice: If you like a little more heat, feel free to add extra red chili flakes or even a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
  • Fresh or Frozen Shrimp: Fresh shrimp works wonderfully here, but frozen shrimp will also do the job. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
  • Make It a Meal: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed veggies or a light green salad for a complete, wholesome meal.

Why This Recipe Works for Weeknights

This Coconut Lime Shrimp comes together so quickly, yet the flavors are bold and satisfying. The shrimp cook up in minutes, and the coconut milk sauce provides a luxurious, creamy texture that feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s the kind of dish that’s both easy and impressive—perfect for a busy weeknight when you need something both nutritious and flavorful.

Healthy, easy, and absolutely delicious—what more could you ask for?


Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair it with a simple cucumber and avocado salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich coconut sauce.
  • You can also add a side of roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or broccoli for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re looking to switch up your usual weeknight dinner routine with something exciting, this Coconut Lime Shrimp recipe will hit the spot. It’s a beautiful blend of tropical flavors, with the creamy coconut milk, zesty lime, and warming spices creating the perfect balance. And the best part? It’s quick, easy, and ready in no time—ideal for even the busiest of weeknights!

Give it a try and let us know what you think! We’d love to hear how your Coconut Lime Shrimp turns out.


2 responses to “Spicy Coconut Lime Shrimp: A 30-Minute Dinner Full of Flavor”

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    […] Spicy Coconut Lime Shrimp – a 30-minute shrimp dinner packed with flavor […]

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