Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp

Name: Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons coconut oil or olive oil; Zest of 1 lime; Juice of 1 lime; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut; Skewers, soaked if wooden; Lime wedges (for garnish); Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Author: Lora

Published: November 3, 2025

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Introduction to Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp

There’s something magical about the combination of coconut and lime that transports me to a tropical paradise. Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp is one of those dishes that not only tastes divine but also evokes that sunny, laid-back feeling. As a busy mom, I crave recipes that are quick to whip up yet bursting with flavor. This delightful shrimp dish captures the essence of summer gatherings, making it a perfect choice for your next barbecue or a fresh family meal. Let’s dive into creating this tropical delight together, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp

This Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp is a lifesaver for busy schedules. It comes together in just 26 minutes, making dinner easy-peasy. The flavors are a delightful explosion, with zesty lime and rich coconut transforming ordinary shrimp into a tropical feast. Plus, it’s gluten-free! Whether you’re hosting friends or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish brings joy and sunshine to your table.

Ingredients for Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp

Let’s talk about what makes this Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp so irresistible. Here are the key players in this tropical symphony of flavors:

Large shrimp: Peeled and deveined, shrimp is the star of the dish. Look for fresh shrimp if possible. Frozen shrimp works well too, just make sure to thaw it properly.
Coconut oil or olive oil: This adds richness to the marinade. Coconut oil enhances the tropical vibe, while olive oil gives you a more classic flavor.
Lime: Both the zest and juice are key. Zesting the lime adds an aromatic kick, while the juice brings brightness.
Garlic: Minced garlic gives depth and a savory note. A must-have in any recipe that wants to pop!
Honey or maple syrup: A touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess of lime. Use honey for a classic touch, or maple syrup for a unique twist.
Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that amplify all the flavors. Adjust to your taste preferences.
Unsweetened shredded coconut: This is the secret ingredient for added texture! Toast it lightly for an even richer flavor.
Skewers: Don’t forget to soak wooden skewers to prevent them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers work great too.
Lime wedges: Perfect for garnishing and squeezing over the shrimp just before serving.
Chopped fresh cilantro: This herb adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.

All the ingredient quantities you need for this tantalizing dish can be found at the bottom of this article, ready for you to print out and keep in your kitchen!

How to Make Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp

Mixing the Marinade

Let’s kick off our tropical adventure by mixing the marinade! In a bowl, combine coconut oil, the zest and juice of a lime, minced garlic, a drizzle of honey (or maple syrup), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. The coconut oil gives a taste of the tropics, while the zest adds aromatic depth. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended. For extra texture, fold in some unsweetened shredded coconut. This mix will coat our shrimp in heavenly flavor!

Marinating the Shrimp

Time to bring our shrimp to life! Add the peeled and deveined shrimp into the marinade, tossing to ensure each piece is evenly covered. This is where the magic happens! Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes. This brief rest allows the flavors to infuse the shrimp, creating that mouthwatering taste. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later!

Skewering the Shrimp

Now that our shrimp are marinated, let’s prepare for the grill! Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece. This spacing helps them cook evenly, creating that perfect grilled texture. If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them first to prevent burning on the grill. Can you feel the excitement building?

Grilling the Shrimp

It’s grilling time! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat—this is the sweet spot for cooking shrimp. Place the skewered shrimp on the grill and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Look for that beautiful pink and opaque color to know they’re done. For an extra twist, sprinkle a bit more shredded coconut over the shrimp while grilling for a delightful toasted finish. Your kitchen will smell incredible!

Serving the Dish

Finally, it’s time to present your delicious creation! Carefully transfer the grilled skewers to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh lime wedges and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for that vibrant touch. Serve these mouthwatering shrimp as an appetizer or a main course alongside rice or a light salad. Trust me, everyone will be raving about your Grill Coconut Lime Shrimp!

Tips for Success

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture; frozen works if thawed properly.
Marinate the shrimp long enough for full flavor absorption but not too long to make them mushy.
If grilling outdoors, keep a spray bottle of water handy for flare-ups.
Experiment with the marinade; add spices like chili flakes for a kick!
Use an instant-read thermometer—shrimp is perfectly cooked at 120°F.

Equipment Needed for Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp

Grill: A gas or charcoal grill works wonders, but a grill pan can be a great indoor alternative.
Mixing Bowl: Any medium bowl will do for whisking together the marinade.
Skewers: Use metal skewers or soak wooden ones to prevent burning.
Basting Brush: Optional but helpful for applying extra marinade while grilling.
Tongs: Essential for flipping the shrimp safely and easily on the grill.

Variations of Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy twist that will light up your taste buds.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs! Try adding fresh basil or mint to the marinade for a unique flavor profile.
Citrus Twist: Mix in the zest of an orange or lemon along with the lime for a multi-citrus explosion that enhances the bright flavor.
Vegetable Skewers: Pair the shrimp with colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes on the skewers for a vibrant, hearty meal.
Grilled Pineapple: Add pineapple chunks to your skewers! The caramelized sweetness of grilled pineapple complements the shrimp beautifully.
Low-Carb Option: Swap out the honey or maple syrup with a low-carb sweetener like stevia to keep it keto-friendly.

Serving Suggestions for Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp

Rice: Serve it over fluffy jasmine rice or coconut rice to absorb those zesty flavors.
Salad: Pair with a light cucumber or avocado salad for freshness.
Drinks: Enjoy with a crisp white wine or a refreshing coconut mojito.
Presentation: Serve on a vibrant platter, drizzled with extra lime juice and sprinkled with cilantro.

FAQs about Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. It’s often handy to keep some in your freezer for last-minute meals.

What’s the best way to store leftovers? If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently before serving!

How can I make this dish non-spicy for kids? Simply omit any spicy ingredients like chili flakes. This Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp is deliciously flavorful even without the heat, making it perfect for everyone!

What’s a great side dish for Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp? I recommend pairing it with a light salad or fluffy jasmine rice. Both options allow the shrimp flavors to shine beautifully.

Can I cook the shrimp in the oven if I don’t have a grill? Yes! You can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 6-8 minutes. Just be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!

Final Thoughts on Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp

Making Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating moments. The bright, zesty flavors bring warmth to your table, evoking sunny beach days even in the midst of a busy week. I love how this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a stunning dish that everyone will adore. Whether shared with friends around a fire or enjoyed as a quick weeknight treat, this tropical delight offers a taste of paradise. So grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and let the flavors transport you to your happy place!