Looking for a simple yet tasty weeknight meal? Try my Coconut Lime Shrimp Skillet! With juicy shrimp, creamy coconut milk, and zesty lime, it’s packed with flavor. This dish comes together in just a few steps, making it perfect for busy nights. Plus, I’ll share tips to make it even better. Let’s dive into this satisfying recipe and start cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of coconut milk and lime creates a tropical flavor that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or quinoa, making it a versatile meal option that pairs well with various sides.
- Healthy Ingredients: With shrimp as the main protein and fresh herbs, this dish is light yet packed with nutrients.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1 lime, zested and juiced
The main ingredients make this dish shine. You need fresh shrimp for the best taste. Coconut milk adds creaminess and rich flavor. Lime brings a bright touch to balance the dish.
Seasoning and Cooking Essentials
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
The olive oil helps cook the shrimp evenly. Garlic gives a warm and savory flavor. Fresh ginger adds a bit of spice and zest. These three ingredients are key to a flavorful base.
Optional Garnishes and Serving Suggestions
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
Garnishes like cilantro add color and freshness. Lime wedges give an extra pop of flavor when served. You can serve the dish over jasmine rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
First, let’s get everything ready.
- Take 1 pound of large shrimp. Peel and devein them if needed.
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic.
- Grate 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger.
- Zest and juice 1 lime. Set these aside.
Cooking the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir them for about 1 minute. You want them to smell great.
- Now, toss in the shrimp. Season with salt, pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook for about 2-3 minutes.
- Flip the shrimp halfway. They should start to turn pink.
Making the Coconut Lime Sauce
Pour in 1/2 cup of coconut milk. Add the lime zest, lime juice, and 1 tablespoon of honey.
- Stir carefully to mix everything well.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. The sauce will thicken, and the shrimp will finish cooking.
- Taste the sauce. If needed, adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your dish!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Texture and Flavor
To cook shrimp perfectly, start with fresh or thawed shrimp. Overcooking makes shrimp tough. Cook them just until they turn pink. This takes about 2-3 minutes. Always flip them halfway through cooking for even color.
Adjust seasoning levels to your taste. Start with salt and pepper. You can always add more after tasting. The lime juice adds a bright flavor, so don’t hold back on it.
Enhancing the Dish
Want a kick? Add red pepper flakes to the shrimp. Start with 1/4 teaspoon. You can always add more if you like it spicy.
Fresh ingredients make a big difference. Use fresh ginger and garlic. They add a rich flavor that dried spices can’t match. Don’t forget fresh cilantro for garnish. It brightens the dish and adds color.
Recommended Cooking Tools
Use a large skillet for even cooking. A non-stick skillet works well for easy cleanup.
Gather useful utensils before you start. A good spatula helps flip shrimp without breaking them. A zester is great for getting lime zest. A measuring spoon makes sure you add just the right amount of honey.
Pro Tips
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can work in a pinch, but fresh will elevate the dish significantly.
- Adjusting Spice Level: Feel free to customize the red pepper flakes to your heat preference. Start with a small amount and increase it gradually to suit your taste.
- Coconut Milk Substitutes: If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using light coconut milk or even almond milk, but keep in mind it will alter the flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice or quinoa. For added freshness, consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables.

Variations
Adding Vegetables
You can make this dish even better by adding vegetables. Bell peppers add color and crunch. Slice them thinly and toss them in with the shrimp. Snap peas are another great option, adding a sweet snap. Add them just before the shrimp turns pink for a fresh bite.
Protein Alternatives
If shrimp isn’t your favorite, you can swap it for chicken or tofu. For chicken, use boneless breast, cut into cubes. Cook it until golden before adding the sauce. For tofu, choose firm tofu and press out excess water. Cut it into cubes and pan-fry until crispy. Both options are tasty and make the dish fit your needs.
Coconut Lime Sauce Customization
The coconut lime sauce is easy to change. You can try different sweeteners like maple syrup or agave. Each brings a unique flavor. If you want a lighter sauce, use light coconut milk. This keeps the creamy taste while reducing calories. Experimenting with these options lets you find your perfect mix!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your coconut lime shrimp fresh, cool the dish. Place it in an airtight container. Make sure the container seals tightly. Store it in the fridge. It stays good for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing.
Reheating Suggestions
When you reheat shrimp, do it gently. Use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of coconut milk or water. This keeps the shrimp moist. Stir often to ensure even heating. Avoid microwaving, as it can make shrimp rubbery.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
To freeze coconut lime shrimp, wait until it cools. Place it in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it gently on the stove.
FAQs
What is the best way to cook shrimp?
To cook shrimp perfectly, start by prepping them right. Peel and devein them for the best taste. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing them for a minute. Then, add the shrimp, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Flip them halfway through to cook evenly. Overcooking shrimp makes them tough, so watch the time closely.
Can I make coconut lime shrimp in advance?
Yes, you can prepare coconut lime shrimp in advance. Cook the shrimp and sauce as directed. Let it cool down before storing. Place the dish in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for 2-3 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat it on the stove. Add a splash of coconut milk if the sauce seems too thick.
Is this dish spicy?
This dish can be adjusted for spice. It has a hint of heat from the red pepper flakes. If you prefer less spice, use only a pinch or skip them entirely. For more heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Tasting as you go helps you find the right balance for your palate.
What can I serve with coconut lime shrimp?
Coconut lime shrimp pairs well with many sides. Serve it over jasmine rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. You can also add steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas. A fresh salad with lime vinaigrette adds a nice crunch. Don’t forget lime wedges on the side for extra zest!
You now have a complete guide to making coconut lime shrimp. We covered the main ingredients, cooking steps, and tips to enhance flavor. Remember to choose fresh ingredients for the best taste. Try adding veggies or using alternatives like chicken. Store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. I hope these details inspire you to create this dish. Enjoy your cooking and savor each bit

Coconut Lime Shrimp Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1 unit lime, zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- to taste salt and pepper
- to garnish fresh cilantro, chopped
- for serving lime wedges
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp start turning pink, flipping them halfway through.
- Pour in the coconut milk, lime zest, lime juice, and honey. Stir carefully to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the shrimp to cook through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice if desired.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.

