Hey there, fellow food lovers! I’m Emily from Tasty Adventures and today I’m super excited to share my absolute favorite side dishes that’ll transform your coconut shrimp from a simple appetizer into an unforgettable meal. After years of experimenting in my kitchen (and maybe eating way too much coconut shrimp ), I’ve put together this mega-list of sides that’ll knock your socks off!
Quick Answer
The best sides for coconut shrimp include:
- Fresh dipping sauces (mango salsa, sweet chili sauce)
- Light salads (Asian noodle salad, kale slaw)
- Starches (cilantro lime rice, crispy french fries)
- Tropical-inspired sides (grilled pineapple, plantain chips)
Sauces & Dips That’ll Make Your Shrimp Pop
1. Mango Salsa
OMG, this is my go-to! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh mango
- Red onion
- Cilantro
- Jalapeño
- Lime juice
Just dice everything up, mix it together, and chill for an hour. The sweet-spicy combo is absolutely chef’s kiss!
2. Sweet Chili Sauce
Y’all, this sauce is EVERYTHING with coconut shrimp. It’s like they were made for each other! The sweet-and-spicy combo just works.
3. Avocado Crema
Super creamy and perfect for dipping! Mix:
- Ripe avocados
- Greek yogurt
- Lime juice
- Salt & pepper
Fresh & Crispy Salads
1. Kale Slaw
Trust me on this one – it’s not your boring old kale salad! Add:
- Shredded kale
- Red onions
- Sunflower seeds
- Lemony garlic dressing
2. Asian Noodle Salad
This is seriously addictive! Features
- Rice noodles
- Crunchy veggies
- Peanut dressing
- Fresh herbs
Carby Goodness (Because Who Doesn’t Love Carbs?)
1. Cilantro Lime Rice
Super easy and totally delish:
- Cook rice in chicken broth
- Add fresh lime juice
- Mix in chopped cilantro
- Season to taste
2. Crispy French Fries
Here’s my secret for the PERFECT fries:
- Soak potatoes overnight
- Double fry method
- Season while hot
Tropical-Inspired Sides
1. Grilled Pineapple
Y’all won’t believe how good this is:
- Brush with brown sugar butter
- Grill 4 mins each side
- Optional: sprinkle chili powder
2. Plantain Chips
These are addictive AF:
- Slice plantains thin
- Fry until golden
- Season with salt & chili
Drinks to Complete Your Meal
1. Piña Colada
Because duh! It’s literally perfect with coconut shrimp.
2. Mango Lassi
A non-alcoholic option that’s creamy and refreshing!
Pro Tips from My Kitchen to Yours
- Don’t overload your plate – coconut shrimp is pretty filling!
- Mix and match textures (crispy, creamy, crunchy)
- Think tropical flavors
- Always serve with fresh lime wedges
The Bottom Line
Listen, y’all – coconut shrimp is already amazing on its own, but paired with these sides? chef’s kiss You’re looking at a meal that’ll have everyone begging for seconds! My personal fave combo is the mango salsa + cilantro lime rice + grilled pineapple. But honestly? You can’t go wrong with any of these!
P.S. Don’t forget to pin this for later – trust me, you’ll want to come back to it!
#coconutshrimp #sidedishes #foodie #cooking #recipes #dinner
Creamy Coconut Rice
Courtesy of JustaTaste.com
For the ultimate flavor synergy based on the key coconut ingredient, this lusciously creamy coconut rice makes for an incredible counterpart. Simmering white rice in a coconut milk broth infuses every grain with its signature tropical essence and subtle sweet spice accent.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups jasmine rice
- 1 13.5 oz can coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 3 green cardamom pods, cracked
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp coconut oil or ghee, divided
- 1/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut
Instructions:
In a skillet over medium heat, toast the shredded coconut in 1 tbsp oil until starting to lightly brown – about 2 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside. Add remaining oil to pan and toast cardamom pods for 1 minute until fragrant. Add rice, coconut milk, water and salt. Bring to a boil then cover and reduce to a simmer for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before removing cardamom pods. Fold in coconut chips until combined. Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm.
See the full recipe on JustaTaste.com
Spicy Asian Slaw
Courtesy of Food.com
Crunchy vegetables get bathed in a fiery dressing that perfectly mirrors the coconut and breading layers enveloping the shrimp but with an added kick of chili heat.
Ingredients:
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 3 tbsp fish sauce
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tsp Sriracha chili sauce
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Slaw:
- 1/2 small head of purple cabbage, shredded
- 2 carrots, peeled and shredded
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 3 scallions, sliced thin
- 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
Instructions:
Whisk together dressing ingredients and set aside. In a large bowl, toss to combine cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, scallions, and mint. Pour in dressing and toss again until evenly coated. For best flavor, chill 1 hour before serving.
See the full recipe on Food.com
The best side dishes for seafood
FAQ
What is a good side dish for shrimp?
A great side dish for shrimp depends on how the shrimp is prepared and your personal preference, but some excellent choices include rice, pasta, salads, and vegetables.
What vegetables with coconut shrimp?
We have plenty of options to choose from: Broccoli, peas, asparagus, mushrooms, carrots, and so many combinations you’ll be all set!Sep 15, 2022
What pairs with coconut?
What to serve with Thai coconut shrimp soup?
… it alongside colorful salads filled with zesty citrus, sweet and savory grains like coconut rice or quinoa, or roasted vegetables that add warmth and depthAug 29, 2024