Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk

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Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk is one of those dishes that feels tropical, comforting, and luxurious all at once. It’s perfect when you’re craving something cozy but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Tender shrimp are lightly seared and then simmered in a creamy, garlicky coconut sauce that’s rich without being heavy.

The aroma alone is enough to transport you to a breezy seaside evening. Whether you serve it over jasmine rice, spoon it over noodles, or soak it up with crusty bread, the blend of garlic and coconut milk offers a warm, satisfying flavor that’s hard to resist.

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

This dish is quick enough for a weeknight but has the wow factor of something you’d serve at a dinner party. It uses pantry-friendly ingredients and comes together in about 25 minutes. The garlic brings a savory punch, the coconut milk adds creamy balance, and the shrimp cook in minutes, soaking up every bit of flavor. It’s dairy-free, naturally gluten-free, and easy to adapt with veggies or spice.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

Fresh or frozen shrimp both work wonderfully here. If using frozen, thaw them beforehand and pat dry for the best sear. Medium to large shrimp (like 21/25 or 26/30 count) offer the perfect balance of size and tenderness. Peeled and deveined shrimp save time, though tails on or off is totally your choice. Just make sure not to overcook them—they should be just opaque and plump.

Ingredients for the Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk

The ingredients for this dish are simple but flavorful. Each one plays a role in making this creamy, garlicky shrimp truly crave-worthy.

• Shrimp: The star of the show. Choose fresh or thawed medium-large shrimp, peeled and deveined.
• Garlic: Lots of fresh garlic adds depth and aroma. Don’t skimp.
• Coconut milk: Full-fat canned coconut milk brings the creamy texture and slight sweetness that balances the garlic.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the garlic and shrimp and bringing a silky mouthfeel.
• Lime juice: Brightens up the rich sauce with a pop of acidity.
• Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch adds gentle heat without overpowering.
• Salt: Essential to balance the sweetness of the coconut milk.
• Cilantro: Chopped and sprinkled over at the end for freshness.

How To Make the Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk

Step 1: Sear the Shrimp

Heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a little more olive oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine with the garlic. Add lime juice, red pepper flakes, and salt. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp Back

Return the shrimp to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for 1–2 minutes so the flavors can meld.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with toasted bread.

How to Serve and Store Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk

This dish is best served hot straight from the pan. It’s ideal over jasmine rice, rice noodles, or even buttery mashed potatoes. For a low-carb option, try it with cauliflower rice or sautéed zucchini ribbons. The sauce soaks beautifully into anything you pair it with.

Leftovers keep well for about 2 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if the sauce thickens too much. This recipe feeds 3 to 4 people, depending on portion size and sides.

What to Serve With Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk?

Jasmine Rice

Fluffy and lightly fragrant, jasmine rice soaks up the sauce like a dream.

Garlic Naan or Crusty Bread

Perfect for sopping up every drop of the creamy garlic-coconut sauce.

Sautéed Greens

Try bok choy, spinach, or kale lightly wilted with sesame oil for a healthy side.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Their natural sweetness complements the richness of the coconut milk.

Mango Cucumber Salad

Refreshing and cool, with a crunch that contrasts the soft shrimp.

Vermicelli Noodles

For a noodle-forward take, serve the shrimp and sauce over vermicelli or rice noodles.

Lime Slaw

A crunchy slaw tossed in lime juice adds brightness to the meal.

Grilled Pineapple Slices

If you’re leaning tropical, grilled pineapple adds juicy tang that plays beautifully with garlic and coconut.

Want More Seafood Ideas?

If you love this shrimp dish, you might also enjoy these other seafood favorites from Luna Meals:

• Easy Creamy Polenta Shrimp Recipe
• Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage
• Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa
• Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach Parmesan
• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you serve it over rice or noodles? Add more spice? I love hearing your kitchen twists.

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Conclusion

Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk is a quick, flavorful dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a special dinner, its blend of rich coconut cream, garlicky warmth, and tender shrimp makes it unforgettable. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this recipe keeps making it back to the dinner table.

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