Coconut Garlic Shrimp & Sweet Potato Rice Bowl
If you’re craving a meal that’s both light and satisfying, this Coconut Garlic Shrimp & Sweet Potato Rice Bowl is exactly what you need. It’s got everything—juicy shrimp, creamy coconut, and the subtle sweetness of sweet potato, all combined in one bowl. Trust me, this is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug for your taste buds. It’s quick, easy, and will leave you feeling like a superstar chef!
Why You’ll Love Coconut Garlic Shrimp & Sweet Potato Rice Bowl
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients; it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re whipping up a solo dinner or feeding a group, this dish has got you covered. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: It’s a bowl full of vibrant flavors, making it perfect for any occasion—from a weeknight dinner to a special gathering. You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your preferences, making it adaptable to different tastes.
Budget-Friendly: You don’t need to break the bank for a delicious, healthy meal. With simple ingredients like shrimp, sweet potatoes, and garlic, you’ll be able to make something delicious without emptying your wallet.
Quick and Easy: Ready in no time, this meal requires minimal prep work. It’s perfect for when you want something tasty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Customizable: Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just in the mood for a flavor twist, you can customize this dish to fit your needs. Feel free to swap shrimp for another protein or add extra veggies to the mix.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Coconut Garlic Shrimp & Sweet Potato Rice Bowl
Here’s the magic of this recipe: it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Shrimp: The star of the show. Sweet, succulent shrimp are pan-seared in garlic and coconut oil, giving them that irresistible flavor.
Sweet Potatoes: These orange beauties are the perfect base for your rice bowl. Their natural sweetness balances out the savory shrimp and coconut perfectly.
Coconut Milk: This creamy liquid adds a rich, tropical twist to the dish. It wraps the shrimp and sweet potatoes in a luscious coconut flavor that makes every bite feel like a mini vacation.
Garlic: Aromatic and full of flavor, garlic brings an earthy, savory depth that elevates this dish.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Start by preheating your skillet over medium heat. This ensures even cooking and gives your shrimp that perfect golden sear.
Cook the Sweet Potatoes: In a separate pan, cook the sweet potatoes until tender. This step lets the sweet potatoes cook through while retaining their lovely texture. Once they’re soft, mash them gently and set aside.
Prepare the Shrimp: In your heated skillet, melt some coconut oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and juicy. The garlic will infuse the shrimp with an irresistible flavor, while the coconut oil adds a touch of tropical goodness.
Combine Ingredients: Add coconut milk to the pan and stir everything together. Let the flavors simmer and meld for a couple of minutes. This step ensures that the coconut and garlic infuse every bite of shrimp.
Assemble the Bowl: Spoon a generous helping of mashed sweet potatoes into the bottom of your bowl. Top with the shrimp and coconut mixture. Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime for extra brightness!
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy! This dish is perfect on its own, but if you want to make it even heartier, feel free to pair it with a light side salad or steamed veggies.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 2
Calories per serving: 450
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Coconut Garlic Shrimp & Sweet Potato Rice Bowl
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Steamed Veggies: Brighten up your meal with some steamed broccoli or a colorful veggie mix.
- Side Salad: A light, tangy salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish.
- Rice: If you’re craving more carbs, you can serve the shrimp and sweet potatoes on a bed of jasmine rice for extra fullness.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- For a spicy kick: Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the coconut sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Storage: This dish keeps well for 2-3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently to maintain the texture of the shrimp.
- Sweet potato alternatives: If you’re not a fan of sweet potatoes, try using regular potatoes or quinoa for a different twist.
FAQ’s
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp will work just fine! Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking. - Can I substitute coconut milk with another ingredient?
You can use regular milk or a dairy-free alternative, but coconut milk gives this dish its signature creamy texture and flavor. - How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add some chili flakes or a diced jalapeño to the garlic as you cook it for a spicy kick. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute the shrimp with your favorite plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas, and use a plant-based milk instead of coconut milk. - How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Try adding sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for a veggie boost. - What can I serve with this dish besides rice?
You can serve it with quinoa, couscous, or even a simple green salad. - Can I prepare the sweet potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can roast or mash the sweet potatoes in advance to save time during meal prep. - Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! The mild flavors and sweet potatoes make it a hit with little ones too.
Conclusion
Coconut Garlic Shrimp & Sweet Potato Rice Bowl is the kind of dish you’ll crave again and again. It’s light yet satisfying, packed with flavor, and so easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe is sure to be a winner every time. Try it out, and let your taste buds travel to the tropics!
Print
Coconut Garlic Shrimp & Sweet Potato Rice Bowl
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing, Boiling
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delicious and healthy Coconut Garlic Shrimp served with a flavorful Sweet Potato Rice Bowl, combining tropical coconut flavors with savory shrimp and a nutritious rice base.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and grated
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp butter (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions, substituting water with coconut milk for extra flavor.
- While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until shrimp is pink and cooked through.
- In a separate pan, heat a bit of olive oil, and sauté the grated sweet potato for 5-6 minutes until tender.
- Combine the cooked rice, sweet potato, and shrimp in a large bowl. Drizzle with lime juice and garnish with chopped cilantro.
- If desired, add a pat of butter to the rice for extra richness before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add chili flakes or jalapeños to the shrimp seasoning.
- Can substitute regular rice for quinoa for a higher protein option.
- Ensure shrimp is not overcooked to avoid rubbery texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
Keywords: Coconut, Shrimp, Sweet Potato, Rice Bowl, Healthy, Low Calorie, Seafood