If you’re looking for a vibrant, tropical twist on shrimp that is bursting with flavor and perfect for summer cookouts or a lively weeknight dinner, this Grilled Coconut-Lime Shrimp Skewers Recipe will become your new favorite. Juicy shrimp marinated in creamy coconut milk, zesty lime, and a hint of ginger and honey create an irresistible balance of sweet, tangy, and savory in every bite. It’s simple, quick, and packed with fresh ingredients that come together beautifully on the grill, topped with toasted coconut and cilantro for that extra pop of texture and brightness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with pale pinkish-orange creamy sauce as the bottom layer that has a smooth and slightly thick texture. On top, there is a layer of raw, peeled shrimp arranged loosely, showing their light gray and translucent white bodies with subtle dark lines and spots on their curled forms. The shrimp are piled naturally, creating soft shadows and highlights that emphasize their wet, slightly shiny surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Grilled Coconut-Lime Shrimp Skewers Recipe is its straightforward, but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element adds a layer of flavor, richness, or freshness that makes every skewer unforgettable.

1 Pound Shrimp: Fresh or thawed, peeled and deveined, these are the star that soak up all the delicious marinade.
1 Cup Coconut Milk (Full Fat): Creamy and slightly sweet, it tenderizes the shrimp and adds tropical depth.
2 TBSP Soy Sauce: Brings a subtle umami boost that balances the sweetness of coconut and honey.
2 cloves Minced Garlic: Adds bold flavor and aromatic richness to the marinade.
1 Lime (Juice and Zest): Provides bright acidity and citrus notes that wake up your taste buds.
1 tsp Ginger Paste: A gentle warmth and zing that complements the lime and coconut perfectly.
1 TBSP Honey: Naturally sweetens the marinade and helps with a beautiful caramelization on the grill.
Chopped Cilantro: Fresh garnish that adds a vibrant, herbaceous finish.
Toasted Coconut: Crunchy topping that boosts the tropical vibe and adds a wonderful texture.

How to Make Grilled Coconut-Lime Shrimp Skewers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by combining coconut milk, soy sauce, minced garlic, lime juice and zest, honey, and ginger paste in a mixing bowl. This marinade packs creaminess, savory notes, acidity, and a touch of sweetness, setting the stage for those shrimp to become unforgettable.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl, making sure each piece is fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge to marinate for 30 minutes. This gives the flavors time to infuse into the shrimp, making each bite juicy and flavorful.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill and Assemble Skewers

Heat your grill to about 400 degrees Fahrenheit to get it nice and hot. Thread about five shrimp onto each skewer, making sure they’re not too crowded. Oiling the grill grates is key to prevent sticking and to get that perfect char.

Step 4: Grill the Shrimp

Place the shrimp skewers on the grill and cook for 2 minutes before flipping them over. Grill for another 2 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Watch closely because shrimp cook fast and you want them tender, not rubbery.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once off the grill, sprinkle the skewers generously with chopped cilantro and toasted coconut. These toppings add fresh, green brightness and a toasty crunch that elevate the whole dish. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Coconut-Lime Shrimp Skewers Recipe

The image shows several metal skewers with shrimp grilled on an outdoor grill with black grates. Each skewer holds about six or seven shrimp, which have a light pink color with charred brown and black grill marks. The shrimp are arranged in curved shapes along the skewers, and their texture looks firm and slightly bumpy. A woman's hand is using metal tongs to hold one of the skewers on the top left side of the grill. The background behind the grill is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro is a must for that herbaceous note, while toasted coconut adds a fun, crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender shrimp. You can also add a light drizzle of extra lime juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes if you want a little heat.

Side Dishes

These shrimp skewers shine alongside refreshing sides like a mango salsa, coconut rice, or a crisp green salad. They also pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables or a chilled cucumber salad to complement the tropical flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the skewers on a wooden board lined with banana leaves for an exotic touch. You can also thread the shrimp with pineapple or bell pepper chunks for colorful pops. Presenting with small bowls of dipping sauces like sweet chili or spicy aioli invites everyone to customize their bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover shrimp skewers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep garnishes separate if possible to avoid sogginess. The flavors will mellow but remain delicious.

Freezing

Freezing cooked shrimp skewers can be done, but it may affect texture slightly. Wrap skewers tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, gently reheat shrimp on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that fresh grilled flavor and tender texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before marinating to ensure the flavors soak in well and the shrimp grill properly.

What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook these shrimp skewers another way?

Yes, you can broil the skewers in the oven or cook them in a grill pan on your stovetop. Just watch closely as shrimp cook quickly and char nicely under high heat.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not by default, but you can easily add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade if you like a bit of heat with your tropical flavors.

How long can I marinate the shrimp?

Thirty minutes is perfect to infuse flavor without breaking down the shrimp too much. You can marinate up to an hour, but avoid going longer as the acid from the lime can start to “cook” the shrimp.

Can I make this recipe ahead for a party?

Yes! Marinate the shrimp earlier in the day, assemble skewers just before grilling, and keep everything chilled until you’re ready to cook. This recipe is fantastic for entertaining because it’s quick and easy on the grill.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Coconut-Lime Shrimp Skewers Recipe is an absolute joy to make and eat. It’s packed with tropical flair, bright citrus, and just enough sweetness to make every bite pop. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a fresh, flavorful dinner, this recipe is bound to impress and delight. Give it a try and watch these shrimp become a fast favorite!