does red lobster have coconut shrimp

Does Red Lobster Still Have Coconut Shrimp? A Look at This Long-Time Menu Favorite

Coconut shrimp has been a customer favorite at Red Lobster for over 35 years. The crisp coconut breading and sweet dipping sauce make it a taste of the tropics. But with restaurants constantly revamping menus, you may be wondering: does Red Lobster still have coconut shrimp?

In this article we’ll take a deep dive into Red Lobster’s iconic coconut shrimp. We’ll explore its history on their menu nutrition information, and whether you can still order it today. Keep reading to satisfy your coconut shrimp craving!

A Brief History of Coconut Shrimp

Coconut shrimp traces its origins to Southeast Asia, where Chinese immigrants to Thailand invented the dish. Using abundant local coconuts, they coated shrimp in a crispy, coconut flavored batter.

In the 1980s, this exotic dish made its way to the U.S. Casual dining chains like Red Lobster added coconut shrimp to their menus, Americanizing it with new dipping sauces. Offering these creative recipes helped chains like Red Lobster expand their offerings beyond basic seafood.

The sweet coconut coating with briny shrimp was an instant hit. Dipping sauces like tangy orange marmalade or fruity pineapple sauce added even more flavor. Within a few years, coconut shrimp had became a staple appetizer for a night out.

Red Lobster First Added Coconut Shrimp in 1985

Red Lobster rode the wave of coconut shrimp’s popularity by adding it to their menu in 1985. It quickly became one of their most iconic and beloved appetizer items.

Here’s a quick timeline of coconut shrimp at Red Lobster over the past 35+ years:

• 1985 – Coconut shrimp debuts on the menu. The original dish featured large shrimp coated in shredded coconut and coconut milk, then fried to a crisp crunch.

• Early 1990s – An “Admiral’s Feast” with colossal coconut shrimp and Hawaiian glaze is promoted.

• 2000s – Seasonal and limited-time coconut shrimp skewers, spicy coconut shrimp, and other riffs appear.

• Today – Both regular and jumbo coconut shrimp remain on the permanent menu. New preparation styles are sometimes added for holidays or summers.

So not only does Red Lobster still have coconut shrimp, but it’s been on their menu continuously for over three decades!

Red Lobster’s Coconut Shrimp Options Today

In 2023, coconut shrimp lovers can still order several versions at Red Lobster:

Parrot Isle Jumbo Coconut Shrimp
This is one of their signature dishes: crisp, jumbo shrimp coated in light and flaky coconut breading. The shrimp are hand-dipped in a coconut milk batter, then coated with shredded fresh coconut.

Served with the iconic piña colada dipping sauce and your choice of sides, it’s a tasty meal. Priced at $17.49 and with 1,220 calories, this indulgent plate features 5 large fried shrimps.

Coconut Shrimp Appetizer Skewer
This shareable appetizer presents the same jumbo shrimp in coconut breading on a wooden skewer for easy dipping. It allows you to sample the coconut shrimp before your main entree arrives.

Each skewer has 4 large shrimps and a petite serving of the piña colada sauce. At 590 calories and $6.49, it’s a lighter way to enjoy this classic.

Create Your Own Coconut Shrimp Dish
For even more customization, Red Lobster’s “Create Your Own” menu lets you design your perfect coconut shrimp meal. Options include:

• Choosing regular or jumbo shrimp sizes
• Picking unique dipping sauces like mango habanero
• Pairing it with any side dishes you crave
• Adding extras like more shrimp or lobster tails

So feel free to get creative and craft your dream coconut shrimp feast!

Why Coconut Shrimp Remains an Iconic Red Lobster Menu Item

There are several reasons why coconut shrimp has stood the test of time on Red Lobster’s menu for over 35 years:

• Unique Flavors – The sweet coconut combined with briny shrimp flavors really make it stand out from other seafood dishes on the menu.

• Nostalgia – For long-time customers, biting into the crispy coconut coating brings back fond memories of dining at Red Lobster over the decades.

• Special Occasions – Coconut shrimp is often reserved for special nights out like birthdays or anniversaries when people want an indulgent treat.

• Adaptability – Coconut shrimp can be paired with so many dipping sauces like piña colada, mango, or pineapple for menu variety.

• Simple Preparation – While exotic sounding, coconut shrimp is easy for most restaurant kitchens to recreate. This makes it a cost-effective and profitable menu item.

By continuing to hit the nostalgia button while still tasting fresh and exciting, coconut shrimp earns its place as a permanent menu item.

Is Coconut Shrimp Available Year-Round?

The classic jumbo coconut shrimp entree and appetizer skewers are available at Red Lobster every day of the year. So no matter what the season, you can always order this tropical favorite.

That said, Red Lobster does sometimes offer seasonal or limited-time coconut shrimp dishes:

• Summertime often brings coconut shrimp skewers featuring Argentinian red shrimp or new mango dipping sauces.

• For football season, spicy coconut shrimp paired with fall beers are promoted.

• Holiday platters with extra jumbo shrimp make appearances around events like Mother’s Day.

While the core coconut shrimp stays on the menu 365 days a year, be on the lookout for fun seasonal twists on this classic appetizer.

Nutrition Information on Red Lobster’s Coconut Shrimp

If you’re watching your calorie intake, here are the nutrition facts on Red Lobster’s coconut shrimp options:

Jumbo Coconut Shrimp Entree

• 1,220 calories, 48g fat, 33g protein, 167g carbs

As a fried, coconut milk-dipped dish, the jumbo shrimp entree is quite high in calories and saturated fat.

Coconut Shrimp Appetizer Skewer

• 590 calories, 26g fat, 27g protein, 63g carbs

Thanks to smaller shrimp and a petite serving size, the appetizer skewer makes a lighter choice.

Piña Colada Sauce

• 130 calories, 0g fat, 33g carbs, 20g sugars per 2 oz

The sweet dipping sauce does contribute extra sugars. Lighter salsa makes a fresh, lower calorie pairing.

Overall, coconut shrimp at Red Lobster is best saved for a special treat. Light appetizer portions or sharing the loaded entrees help cut the calorie count.

Satisfy Your Coconut Shrimp Craving at Red Lobster

For over 35 years, coconut shrimp has remained a staple menu item at Red Lobster restaurants across America. It’s beloved for its trademark crispy, coconut-encrusted shrimp paired with a fruity piña colada dipping sauce.

While the core dish stays on the menu year-round, be sure to also check out the seasonal twists like summer skewers. And don’t forget to customize your own coconut shrimp creation using the “Create Your Own” menu options.

Next time you’re craving a taste of the tropics, stop by your local Red Lobster. Sink your teeth into their iconic coconut shrimp recipe passed down for generations. Just be prepared to see the dish disappear quickly when sharing with friends!

So for both loyal long-time customers and new diners alike, Red Lobster’s coconut shrimp remains a must-try menu favorite after over three decades. This unique appetizer combines crispy coconut with tender shrimp for an indulgent experience that can’t be replicated elsewhere. Coconut shrimp remains a staple menu item at Red Lobster locations across America.