Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Creamy, aromatic, and infused with tropical flavor, this Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk recipe brings a taste of the islands straight to your table. The tender shrimp are seared until golden, then bathed in a luscious garlic-infused coconut sauce that’s perfect for spooning over rice, pasta, or crusty bread.

This dish is a quick weeknight winner that still feels special enough for guests. The combination of garlic, fresh herbs, and rich coconut milk creates a layered flavor that’s both comforting and exotic. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to whenever you crave something bold yet simple.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk

• Quick and easy with gourmet flavor.
• Dairy-free creamy sauce with a tropical flair.
• High-protein, low-carb, and keto-friendly.
• Easily adaptable with vegetables or noodles.
• Elegant enough for entertaining, easy enough for a weeknight.

What Kind of Coconut Milk Should I Use?

For the creamiest, richest flavor, opt for full-fat canned coconut milk. It gives the sauce a luxurious texture that coats the shrimp perfectly. If you’re watching calories, light coconut milk works too, but your sauce may be thinner. Avoid the boxed drinkable coconut milk—it won’t hold up in cooking.

---

Ingredients for the Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk

• Shrimp: The star of the show, it adds a sweet, briny flavor and juicy texture. Use large shrimp for the best bite.
• Garlic: Brings out a savory punch that complements the sweetness of the coconut milk.
• Coconut Milk: The creamy base of the sauce, adding richness and subtle sweetness.
• Olive Oil: Used to sear the shrimp and bloom the garlic flavor.
• Butter: Adds depth and silkiness to the sauce.
• Lime Juice: Balances the richness with acidity and enhances freshness.
• Fresh Parsley: Gives a pop of color and a fresh, herby finish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A touch of heat to lift the flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: Seasoning essentials that bring everything together.

---

How To Make the Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk

Step 1: Sear the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp (tails on or off) in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Sear for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through. Remove to a plate.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic

In the same skillet, add 4 minced garlic cloves and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, scraping up any brown bits from the pan.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of full-fat coconut milk and 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return the shrimp to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Simmer for another minute to reheat. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley before serving.

---

How to Serve This Shrimp Dish

This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering. Serve over jasmine rice, coconut rice, or even zucchini noodles. It also works beautifully with pasta or a warm baguette for soaking up every drop of the sauce.

---

Storing Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the coconut milk from separating. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the sauce and shrimp can change.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild heat from red pepper flakes, but you can omit them for a completely mild dish or add more for extra kick.

Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. Bell peppers, spinach, or snap peas can be added after sautéing the garlic for a more complete meal.

What if I don’t have lime juice?
Lemon juice works as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Just skip the butter or use a plant-based alternative. The olive oil and coconut milk already keep it mostly dairy-free.

---

Want More Shrimp Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk, you’ll probably enjoy these other bold and savory seafood dishes:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails
• Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo
• Marry Me Shrimp Pasta
• Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
• Irresistible Shrimp Crab Spinach Dip

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you serve it with rice or pasta? Did you make it spicy or mild?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Craving more inspiration? Follow along on Life With Livia for daily recipe pins and creative food ideas.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?