The ingenious combination of breadcrumbs and coconut flakes in coconut shrimp creates a delectable treat.
The chunky, juicy prawns are coated with the crispy batter before being deep-fried to perfection, resulting in a mouthwatering golden brown hue. While these bite-sized morsels are undeniably tasty, they lack the heft of a full meal.
That’s why this article will focus on providing 12 mouth-watering side dishes that complement coconut shrimp beautifully.
French Fries
When it comes to comfort food, pairing coconut shrimp with French fries is a match made in heaven. The key to achieving crispy perfection lies in the preparation process. Start by cutting the potatoes into desired shapes using a serrated knife. Next, rinse them under cold running water to remove any excess starch. Then, blanch the fries in vinegar water to help bring out their natural sweetness. Finally, double-fry them in shallow oil until they’re golden and crispy.
The result is a deliciously crunchy snack that will remain satisfying even when it’s gone cold. Add a pinch of salt and your favorite herbs or spices for an added layer of flavor.
Roasted Vegetables
To elevate the nutritional profile of your diet, consider combining your coconut shrimp with roasted vegetables for a harmonious and flavorful pairing. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in each vegetable, making it a winning combination that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. Start by selecting your favorite veggies, chopping them into bite-sized pieces, and then toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like.
Serve these roasted delights on their own with your coconut shrimp or pair them with couscous or quinoa for a more filling meal option.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a versatile condiment that not only pairs well with classic barbecue fare but also complements more exotic dishes like coconut shrimp. When served chilled, it provides a light and refreshing contrast to richer flavors. This recipe’s simplicity makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a DIY approach. You’ll need shredded green and red cabbage, carrots, and a homemade dressing consisting of mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and celery seed.
The beauty of making your own dressing lies in the ability to control the ingredients, thereby avoiding potential additives found in store-bought alternatives. This crunchy and revitalizing coleslaw is an ideal accompaniment to any meal.
Sweet Chili Dip
When craving coconut shrimp without distractions, it’s understandable to focus on the star of the show. However, a flavorful dip can elevate the experience entirely. Enter sweet chili dip, a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy that pairs exquisitely with your coconut shrimp. This recipe requires mere minutes of your time, yielding a tantalizing sauce that will complement your dish in under an hour.
Sautéed Garlic Spinach
When it comes to a nutritious meal option, adding a generous serving of greens to your plate is an excellent choice. This recipe also happens to be a great way to keep calorie intake low. To prepare the spinach, start by heating some garlic over medium heat for about 1 minute. Next, add in your fresh spinach and combine it with the garlic and oil. Cover the pan and let it cook for around 2 minutes before increasing the heat and stirring continuously until the spinach has wilted.
Serve this healthy side dish alongside your coconut shrimp for a satisfying meal.
Pineapple Salsa
When seeking a healthy option that’s both flavorful and visually appealing, look no further than the pairing of coconut shrimp with pineapple salsa. This tropical fusion will transport your taste buds to a sunny isle while keeping calorie counts in check. The combination of pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime creates a symphony of flavors that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate.
In fact, you may find yourself whipping up a double batch to add to other recipes – its versatility is simply unparalleled.
Ginger Rice
For those who crave the bold flavors of Asia, this ginger rice is an unbeatable companion. Its aromatic essence perfectly complements the likes of succulent coconut shrimp. And the best part? It’s a cinch to prepare. With just butter, ginger, garlic, stock, basmati rice, salt, and green onions at your disposal, you’re all set for a culinary adventure.
Simply melt the butter in a pot, sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant, then add the remaining ingredients and bring it all to a rolling boil. As the flavors meld together, let the mixture simmer for about 12 minutes before serving alongside your favorite dishes – like that mouthwatering coconut shrimp!
Thai Red Curry With Vegetables
Warm up with this comforting Thai red curry recipe, packed with nutritious vegetables and a boost of flavor. The addition of protein-rich coconut shrimp creates a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and healthy. To take it to the next level, be sure to use full-fat coconut milk for an indulgent, rich finish.
Creamy Garlic Pasta
To craft the ultimate accompaniment for your coconut shrimp, start by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat. As the oil warms up, sauté garlic until its aroma fills the air, then add butter and stir until it melts. Next, pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, seasoned with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for around 12 minutes, allowing the spaghetti to al dente.
Once cooked, combine the pasta with Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and chopped parsley, stirring until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency. Finally, incorporate your coconut shrimp into the sauce, allowing them to absorb the rich flavors. With this creamy garlic pasta as your base, you’ll be ready to indulge in a truly indulgent culinary experience.
Vietnamese Summer Rolls
Vietnamese summer rolls are a refreshing delight that embodies the essence of a warm-weather meal. The key to these delectable wraps lies in their construction – a harmonious blend of rice vermicelli noodles, shredded vegetables, and fresh herbs like mint, basil, and cilantro, complemented by succulent shrimp or pork. What sets them apart from other spring rolls is the use of non-fried rice paper, making them an impressively healthy option.
You can either nest your coconut shrimp within each roll or enjoy them as a delightful accompaniment. The synergy of flavors in these summer rolls is nothing short of remarkable, making them an ideal choice for a light lunch, dinner, or satisfying snack.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the versatility of coconut shrimp is truly impressive, allowing it to be harmoniously paired with an array of accompaniments that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. From lighter, healthier options to warm, comforting choices, this comprehensive guide has presented a curated selection of sides to suit every palate.
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.