Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant and flavorful dish that feels like a tropical vacation on your plate, this Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai is your new go-to. The bright zing of lime paired with creamy coconut milk creates a luscious sauce that perfectly coats tender shrimp, chewy rice noodles, and crisp vegetables. This recipe offers the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors with a hint of spice that makes every bite irresistible. Trust me, once you try this Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai, you’ll want to make it a regular in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating this delicious dish. Each component plays a key role, from the silky rice noodles that soak up all the flavors to fresh herbs and crunchy peanuts that add texture and brightness.

• 8 oz rice noodles: These soak up the sauce beautifully, providing the perfect chewy base.
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Offers a sweet and tender seafood element that cooks quickly.
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil: Adds a subtle tropical flavor and is perfect for sautéing.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a warm, aromatic foundation to the dish.
• 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Adds vibrant color and a slightly sweet crunch.
• 2 green onions, chopped: Injects fresh, mild onion flavor for brightness.
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten: Creates rich, silky texture and extra protein.
• 1/4 cup coconut milk: Infuses luscious creaminess and a hint of coconut sweetness.
• Juice and zest of 1 lime: Provides the signature tangy punch and freshness.
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce: Delivers deep umami and authentic Pad Thai flavor.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds savory depth and balances the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Brings a subtle caramel sweetness to tie it all together.
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle, warming kick of spice.
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped: Injects delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish: Brightens each bite with herbaceous aroma.
• Lime wedges, for serving: An extra burst of citrus for squeezing over the top.

How to Make Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by preparing the rice noodles according to the package instructions. They should be tender but still have a slight chew—this texture is key. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside so they’re ready to absorb the delicious sauce later on.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When hot, add the shrimp and cook them until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. This quick cooking keeps them juicy and tender. Remove the shrimp and set them aside while you move on to the next step.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of coconut oil. Toss in the minced garlic and thinly sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the bell peppers start to soften but still hold a bit of crunch. This step elevates the dish’s flavor with layers of aroma and texture.

Step 4: Cook the Eggs

Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the pan and pour the lightly beaten eggs into the cleared space. Scramble the eggs gently until fully cooked through, then mix them together with the vegetables. This adds a lovely silkiness and richness to your Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai.

Step 5: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Now it’s time for the magic moment. Add the cooked noodles and shrimp back into the pan. Pour in the coconut milk, fresh lime juice and zest, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss everything well so the noodles and shrimp are fully coated in the creamy, tangy sauce. Heat through just until everything is hot and perfectly combined.

Step 6: Serve

Plate your Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai onto warm dishes. Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro. Don’t forget to add a lime wedge for squeezing extra bright citrus on top whenever you want more punch.

How to Serve Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai

Garnishes

Fresh chopped peanuts bring an irresistible crunch, while bright cilantro leaves add a fresh herbal burst. A squeeze of lime just before eating awakens all the flavors, making every bite lively and fresh.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple cucumber salad or steamed Asian greens like bok choy or gai lan. These sides add coolness and balance the richness of the shrimp pad thai beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve your Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai in colorful bowls lined with banana leaves or garnish with edible flowers. You can also offer extra peanuts, red pepper flakes, and lime wedges on the side for each guest to customize their flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect next-day lunch or quick dinner option.

Freezing

For best texture, freezing is not recommended because the noodles can become mushy. However, if needed, freeze only the shrimp and sauce mixture separately in a freezer-safe container and thaw before reheating with freshly cooked noodles.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving directly as it can overcook the shrimp and toughen the noodles.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles for Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai?

Absolutely! While rice noodles are traditional and absorb the sauce best, you can experiment with flat wheat noodles or even zucchini noodles for a lighter version.

How spicy is this Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai?

The dish is mildly spicy due to the optional crushed red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust the heat level by adding more, less, or leaving them out entirely.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, swap shrimp for tofu and substitute the fish sauce with a vegetarian alternative like soy sauce or tamari to keep it flavorful without animal products.

Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?

Certainly! You can chop vegetables and prepare the sauce mixture in advance to save time. Cook the shrimp and noodles fresh for best texture.

What can I serve as a drink pairing with this dish?

A chilled Thai iced tea or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully, balancing the dish’s bold and tangy flavors perfectly.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Coconut Lime Shrimp Pad Thai enough for those looking to brighten up their dinner table with a dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. It’s quick, packed with flavor, and feels just a little bit special—perfect for impressing family or friends or simply treating yourself. Give it a go and watch it become a fast favorite!