Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe

If you are craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and a delightful balance of creamy, tangy, and savory notes, then this Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai is about to become your new favorite. This recipe combines tender shrimp, silky rice noodles, and a luscious coconut-lime sauce that brings a refreshing twist to the classic Pad Thai we all love. Every bite offers a perfect harmony of textures and bright, zesty tastes that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai is sure to impress and satisfy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the first step toward creating this unforgettable dish. Each element, from the shrimp to the lime juice, plays a vital role in building the perfect balance of richness, zest, and crunch that defines this Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai.

• Shrimp (200g): Fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp bring succulent seafood flavor and a satisfying protein boost.
• Rice noodles (100g): The soft and tender noodles soak up all the delicious sauce, providing the perfect base.
• Coconut milk (1/2 cup): This adds creaminess and a subtle tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with lime.
• Lime juice (2 tbsp): Freshly squeezed for that zesty, tangy kick that brightens up the dish.
• Fish sauce (1 tbsp): Adds umami depth; use soy sauce if you prefer a vegetarian version.
• Brown sugar or honey (1 tsp): Balances the acidity with a hint of natural sweetness.
• Garlic (1 clove, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
• Red chili (1 small, sliced, optional): Offers a mild kick to those who like a little heat.
• Egg (1, optional): Adds a rich protein element and a silky texture.
• Bean sprouts (1/2 cup): Provides refreshing crunch and lightness.
• Green onions (2, sliced): Adds mild pungency and a splash of green color.
• Vegetable oil (1 tbsp): Essential for sautéing and creating that perfect cooking base.
• Crushed peanuts: A crunchy garnish that adds texture and nutty flavor.
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges: For garnishing, these enhance the freshness and visual appeal.

How to Make Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Noodles

Start by cooking your rice noodles according to the package instructions. It’s essential to cook them just right—not too soft—to maintain that perfect chewiness. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside so they’re ready to soak up the flavorful sauce later on.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced red chili and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn a lovely pink and are just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them to keep that tender texture. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Egg (Optional)

If you’re using the egg, push the ingredients to one side of the pan after cooking the shrimp, then scramble the egg in the empty part of the skillet. Cook it gently until just done, so it stays soft and silky. This adds an extra layer of richness to your Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai.

Step 4: Make the Coconut Lime Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, lime juice, fish sauce (or soy sauce), and brown sugar or honey. This mixture should taste perfectly balanced—creamy, acidic, savory, and slightly sweet—the foundation that will tie your entire dish together.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked noodles, shrimp, bean sprouts, and green onions back to the pan. Pour the sauce evenly over the ingredients and toss everything gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the noodles to absorb the luscious sauce and the flavors to meld perfectly. The dish should be piping hot and coated beautifully before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate your Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai, then sprinkle generously with crushed peanuts and fresh cilantro for texture and flavor pops. Don’t forget the lime wedges on the side—the extra squeeze adds a fresh brightness just before you dig in!

How to Serve Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai

Garnishes

The right garnishes can elevate your Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai from excellent to unforgettable. Crushed peanuts add a satisfying crunch, fresh cilantro introduces herbal brightness, and a wedge of lime ensures every bite has that zesty lift you’ll love. Feel free to add extra chili slices if you want more heat.

Side Dishes

This dish shines brilliantly on its own but pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides like a simple cucumber salad or steamed greens. These can help balance the richness of the coconut milk and provide refreshing contrasts in texture and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai in small hollowed-out lime bowls or on banana leaves to impress guests. Garnishing with edible flowers or additional herbs can also add a beautiful and exotic touch to your table setting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that noodles may absorb more sauce over time, so the texture might be a bit softer the next day.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to freeze it, separate the shrimp and noodles from the sauce to maintain texture. Freeze each component in airtight containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

When reheating, do so slowly over medium heat, tossing occasionally. You may want to add a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen the sauce and restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving for best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the shrimp for tofu or extra vegetables and replace the fish sauce with soy sauce to keep the flavor rich and balanced while making it vegetarian-friendly.

What type of rice noodles should I use?

Use thin to medium-width rice noodles, often labeled as Pad Thai noodles or flat rice noodles, as they hold the sauce perfectly without becoming mushy.

How can I adjust the heat level?

For milder dishes, omit the red chili entirely. If you like it spicy, add extra sliced chilies or a dash of chili flakes or chili oil during cooking or at the table.

Is it necessary to use coconut milk?

Coconut milk is key for that creamy, tropical flavor that makes this version unique, but you can substitute with a lighter coconut cream or even a mix of milk and a touch of coconut extract in a pinch.

Can this recipe be doubled?

Yes, the recipe scales up nicely. Just keep an eye on cooking times and make sure your pan is large enough to toss everything together comfortably.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai that feels both comforting and exotic at once. Its bright and creamy sauce, paired with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked noodles, creates a dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Grab your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and bring a little sunshine to your dinner table tonight!

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