Hey foodies! I’ve been obsessing over coconut shrimp lately, and lemme tell you – finding the perfect sides to go with these crispy little bites of heaven has become my new favorite hobby! Today, I’m gonna share my top picks that’ll transform your coconut shrimp from just an appetizer into a mind-blowing meal.
Why You Need Perfect Side Dishes
Look coconut shrimp is amazing on its own – that sweet coconutty coating with juicy shrimp inside? chef’s kiss But let’s be real you can’t just serve shrimp alone and call it dinner! The right sides will
- Balance out the richness
- Add different textures
- Make it a complete meal
- Bring new flavor dimensions
Top Side Dishes for Coconut Shrimp
1. Rice Dishes
Rice is basically coconut shrimp’s BFF! Here are my fave ways to serve it:
- Coconut Rice: Double down on that tropical vibe! Cook jasmine rice in coconut milk with a pinch of salt. Trust me, it’s heavenly.
- Pineapple Fried Rice: Add diced pineapple, eggs, and veggies to your rice for an amazing tropical twist.
- Simple White Rice: Sometimes basic is best – fluffy white rice lets the shrimp be the star.
2. Fresh & Vibrant Sides
These lighter options help cut through the richness:
-
Mango Salsa
- 2 ripe mangoes, diced
- Red onion
- Jalapeño
- Fresh lime juice
- Cilantro
Mix it all up and BAM – perfect fresh contrast!
-
Asian Slaw Make a tangy vinegar-based slaw instead of mayo – your taste buds will thank you
3. Starchy Sides
Sometimes you need something substantial:
- French Fries: Classic but perfect! Regular or sweet potato both work great.
- Twice Baked Potatoes: Feeling fancy? These are amazing with coconut shrimp.
- Pasta: Light options like lemon garlic or simple butter sauce work best.
4. Veggie Options
Keep it healthy with these choices:
- Steamed Veggies: Broccoli, carrots, snap peas – simple but effective!
- Spring Rolls: Fresh veggies wrapped in rice paper = perfect light side
- Grilled Pineapple: Not exactly a veggie but OMG so good with coconut shrimp
Must-Have Dipping Sauces
Ya can’t forget the sauces! Here’s what I love:
- Sweet chili sauce
- Mango habanero
- Honey mustard
- Thai peanut sauce
- Classic cocktail sauce
Pro Tips for Serving
- Don’t overcrowd your plate – let everything breathe!
- Add some garnish (lime wedges, fresh herbs) for color
- Serve sauces on the side so people can customize
- Consider temperature contrast (hot shrimp + cool slaw = perfect!)
Perfect Drink Pairings
Make it a complete experience with these drinks:
- Piña colada (duh!)
- Mango daiquiri
- Cold beer (light lagers work great)
- Tropical iced tea
The Bottom Line
Listen, coconut shrimp is already awesome, but these sides will take your meal from “pretty good” to “OMG amazing!” Mix and match based on what you’re feeling – there’s no wrong answer here!
Need a quick combo suggestion? My personal fave is coconut rice + mango salsa + steamed broccoli. Simple but SO good!
Remember, the key is balance – you want sides that’ll complement your shrimp without overshadowing it. Now go forth and create your perfect coconut shrimp feast! ✨
Got any other amazing sides you love with coconut shrimp? Drop ’em in the comments – I’m always looking for new ideas!
What are the best sides to serve with coconut shrimp?
Frozen French fries are easy to bake or air fry at home. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can cut fresh potatoes into fries and deep fry them.
Buy frozen sweet potato fries and make it at home or follow this easy recipe for sweet potatoes with a spicy barbecue seasoning.
I love to serve simple, steamed green beans with coconut shrimp and a side of rice. Or add bacon or pancetta and shredded cheese for a special treat.
Enjoy this sweet salsa with chips or use this as a topping to any fresh fish. It’s delicious on Mahi Mahi, salmon and swordfish.
Slice up a few cucumbers and red onion and toss it with a simple dressing consisting of of 1/4 cup each of apple cider vinegar and water, a tablespoon of white sugar, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
This crunchy Chinese slaw recipe with ramen noodles is sweet and delicious and matches well with the sweetness of the coconut shrimp.
This delicious recipe was shared by my neighbor, who makes the best authentic Chinese potstickers I’ve ever tasted. Or try my butternut squash potstickers instead.
Peaches pair deliciously with shrimp and the sweetness of the coconut shrimp makes this salad an great option for getting in your greens.
I’m a big fan of Costco‘s veggie spring rolls. Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s also carry premade Spring rolls. Or stop by your local Asian market.
Scrub clean plenty of Idaho potatoes and bake them in a 450 degree oven for an hour. Drizzle each potato with olive oil and kosher salt for an extra special treat.
Grill your favorite fruit like peaches, watermelon, strawberries and kiwi and serve as is or drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze for extra sweetness.
What rice dishes go well with coconut shrimp?
While white rice and brown rice are typically served with tropical theme foods, I like to pair coconut shrimp with rice that has been jazzed up with flavor.
Fresh cilantro is tossed with coconut milk and fresh lime juice and mixed into Jasmine white rice for this personal favorite of mine.
Stick to the tropical theme by sauteeing plantains seasoned with nutmeg and cloves and tossing them with steamed Jasmine rice for a unique flavor.
Add a tropical flair to your next rice dish by adding in black beans, fresh lime juice and fragrant cilantro. I promise my cilantro lime coconut rice is a winner.
Add a main dish and serve coconut shrimp along side an easy recipe of fried rice. Add in the chicken or leave it out.
Get your greens with healthy side dish. This wild rice salad with carrots, toasted pecans, crunchy pepitas and sweet cranberries can be ready in 20 minutes. Serve it warm or cold.
Easy Coconut Shrimp Recipe
FAQ
What is the best side dish for shrimp?
Classic sides for grilled shrimp are grilled veggies, wedge and French fries, potato salad, rice dishes, pasta side dishes, casseroles, lemon, tartar sauce and other sauces. Grilled fresh shrimp are also stellar on top of spinach, green and Caesar salad. And don’t forget a great cocktail.
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 nicely with coconut?
Coconut + nut (almond, pecan, macadamia, pistachio) could be a tasty combination, or building on that coconut + praline. Or how about coconut + black sesame? Coconut + tea also ( especially greens, or something like osmanthus tea which is used in Chinese desserts).
What does red lobster serve with their coconut shrimp?
Hand-breaded coconut shrimp served with our piña colada sauce.