Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk

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This Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk recipe is everything you want for a quick yet luxurious weeknight dinner. The tender shrimp are bathed in a garlicky, herby coconut sauce that tastes like it simmered for hours. Each bite is juicy, rich, and perfectly balanced between creaminess and zingy herbs.

What really sets this dish apart is how effortlessly it comes together. With just a few pantry staples and under 30 minutes, you can have a tropical, restaurant-style meal on the table. It’s naturally dairy-free and pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, crusty bread, or even zucchini noodles.

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What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

Large or jumbo shrimp work best for this recipe. Look for peeled and deveined shrimp with the tails on or off depending on your preference. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but frozen shrimp thawed overnight in the fridge are also a great option. Just make sure to pat them dry before cooking for the best sear.

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Ingredients for the Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk

Shrimp – The star of the dish, shrimp bring sweetness and succulence that soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.

Garlic – Thinly sliced or minced, garlic forms the aromatic base and adds bold depth of flavor.

Coconut Milk – Use full-fat canned coconut milk for the richest, creamiest texture. This is what creates the luscious sauce.

Olive Oil or Butter – Helps sauté the garlic and adds richness to the dish.

Fresh Herbs – Parsley, cilantro, or chives brighten up the final dish and cut through the creaminess.

Lime Juice – A finishing splash of lime brings acidity and a tropical touch that enhances the coconut flavor.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For a little heat, red pepper flakes add warmth without overwhelming the flavors.

Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to balance and bring out the other ingredients.

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How To Make the Shrimp with Garlic and Coconut Milk

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them sear properly. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Coconut Sauce

Lower the heat slightly and pour in the coconut milk. Stir to deglaze the pan and let it simmer for 4-5 minutes to thicken slightly. Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat them in the sauce. Simmer for another minute. Finish with a splash of lime juice and chopped fresh herbs. Serve hot.

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Serving and Storing This Recipe

This dish is best served immediately while the shrimp are juicy and the coconut sauce is warm and silky. It pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice, basmati rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can also spoon it over pasta or serve with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving too long, as shrimp can turn rubbery.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell when shrimp are done cooking?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, with a slight curl into a C shape. Overcooking will make them rubbery, so keep a close eye!

Can I use light coconut milk instead of full-fat?

You can, but the sauce won’t be as rich or creamy. Full-fat coconut milk gives the best flavor and texture for this recipe.

What can I use instead of shrimp?

Scallops or chunks of white fish (like cod or tilapia) would work well. Even tofu could be used for a vegetarian version.

Is this dish spicy?

Not by default. The heat comes only from optional red pepper flakes. You can leave them out or adjust to your taste.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients in advance, but for best results, cook and serve the shrimp fresh to preserve their texture.

What sides go well with this?

Rice, noodles, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables are all great sides. Try it with grilled asparagus or a simple cucumber salad.

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Want More Seafood Ideas?

If you’re loving this garlicky, creamy shrimp dish, here are some other delicious seafood-inspired meals to try next:

• Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp for a smoky and tangy twist.
• Cajun Shrimp Scampi with bold spice and buttery garlic.
• Slow Cooker Southern Shrimp Boil for a fun and easy crowd-pleaser.
• Pan-Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce that’s flaky and full of flavor.
• Creamy Garlic Marry Me Salmon with rich garlic cream and herbs.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s easy to find next time you need a quick seafood fix.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go bold with the red pepper flakes? Serve it over rice or noodles?

I love seeing your kitchen creations and how you make these recipes your own. Got a question? Drop it below—let’s cook smarter together.

For more easy meals and dinner inspiration, follow along on my Pinterest @hallarecipes.

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