Coconut Lime Shrimp

Coconut Lime Shrimp

Coconut Lime Shrimp is a delicious and tropical dish that combines the sweet, nutty flavor of coconut with the tangy, zesty punch of lime.

The shrimp are coated in a crispy coconut crust, then cooked to perfection, resulting in a crispy, golden exterior and a tender, juicy interior. Paired with a fresh squeeze of lime, this dish is both refreshing and indulgent.

It’s perfect as an appetizer, a light meal, or served over rice for a complete dinner. The tropical flavors make it ideal for summer, but it’s versatile enough to enjoy year-round.

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, as desired)

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for cooking)

2 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 1 lime)

Lime wedges (for serving)

For the Dipping Sauce (Optional):

1/4 cup sour cream

2 tbsp mayonnaise

1 tbsp honey

1 tsp lime juice

Pinch of salt

1/4 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)

How to Make:

Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring the coating will stick better. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of shredded coconut, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.

Coat the Shrimp: Working one shrimp at a time, first dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip the shrimp into the beaten eggs, followed by the coconut-panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the shrimp is fully coated in the coconut mixture. Repeat this process for all the shrimp.

Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are golden brown and crispy, and the shrimp have cooked through. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Toss in Lime Juice: Once the shrimp are cooked, drizzle them with fresh lime juice for a burst of zesty flavor. Toss the shrimp gently to coat them evenly.

Serve: Arrange the coconut lime shrimp on a serving platter and garnish with extra lime wedges on the side. Serve with the optional dipping sauce made by mixing sour cream, mayonnaise, honey, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Enjoy as an appetizer or serve over rice or a salad for a complete meal.

Chef’s Note:

Coconut Lime Shrimp is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. The combination of coconut and lime gives the shrimp a tropical flair, making it feel like a vacation on your plate. The dish can easily be customized by adding a bit more heat with extra cayenne pepper or chili powder in the coating or dipping sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, you can bake the shrimp instead of frying them. Simply place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

For a more intense coconut flavor, try using coconut oil for cooking or adding a little unsweetened coconut milk to the dipping sauce. The shrimp are best enjoyed immediately while they’re still crispy, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

Nutrition Information (per serving, 4 servings total):

Calories: 310

Protein: 27g

Carbohydrates: 22g

Fat: 17g

Saturated Fat: 8g

Cholesterol: 180mg

Sodium: 480mg

Fiber: 3g

Sugars: 6g

Coconut Lime Shrimp offers a flavorful, tropical twist on your typical shrimp dish. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and packed with protein. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it as part of a larger spread, this dish is sure to be a hit. The sweet coconut coating combined with the refreshing lime juice makes it an unforgettable treat!