Coconut-Lime Dressing Recipe

This flavorful dressing combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the tang of lime, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes. Ideal for drizzling over salads, grilled vegetables, or as a dipping sauce for seafood. Follow these simple steps to prepare it at home.

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup canned unsweetened coconut milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons minced green onion
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey

Directions

1. In a canning jar, combine the coconut milk, vegetable oil, lime zest, lime juice, minced green onion, fish sauce, and honey.
2. Screw the lid onto the jar tightly and shake vigorously until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
3. Once well combined, place the jar in the refrigerator to chill. This dressing can be stored for up to 1 week.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Each serving provides:

• Calories: 73
• Total Fat: 7g (9% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 1g (6% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 0mg (0% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 178mg (8% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 3g (1% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Total Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 0g (0% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 2mg (3% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 4mg (0% Daily Value)
• Iron: 0mg (1% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 21mg (0% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

The Story Behind Coconut-Lime Dressing

The Coconut-Lime Dressing is a modern take on traditional Southeast Asian flavors. Its roots trace back to Thai cuisine, where the combination of creamy coconut milk, tangy lime, and umami-rich fish sauce has been cherished for centuries. Originally, such dressings were used to enhance fresh salads and grilled seafood, balancing rich coconut flavors with zesty citrus notes. Over time, home cooks and professional chefs adapted these ingredients into a quick, versatile dressing that requires minimal preparation yet delivers complex taste.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

In Thailand, coconut-lime dressings often include local herbs like cilantro or Thai basil and sometimes a touch of chili for heat. In coastal regions, fish sauce is a key ingredient, adding a distinct savory depth. Meanwhile, Western adaptations tend to simplify the recipe, using honey instead of palm sugar and omitting some of the more pungent Southeast Asian ingredients. Despite these variations, the hallmark balance of creamy, tangy, sweet, and salty remains consistent across regions.

What Sets It Apart From Similar Dressings

Unlike typical vinaigrettes that rely on vinegar or lemon juice, Coconut-Lime Dressing uses coconut milk as a creamy base, which gives it a richer, smoother texture. Compared to a simple lime or citrus dressing, the addition of fish sauce introduces a subtle umami quality that elevates salads and grilled dishes. Its combination of sweet, salty, and tangy notes creates a multidimensional flavor profile that is more complex than most Western-style dressings.

Where You Typically Find It Served

This dressing is often paired with tropical or Asian-inspired salads, such as mango and avocado salad, or drizzled over grilled shrimp, chicken, or fish. It is also popular as a dipping sauce for fresh spring rolls or as a light drizzle over roasted vegetables. In restaurants, youll find it featured in both casual and fine dining establishments that emphasize fresh, vibrant flavors and global cuisine.

Interesting Facts About Coconut-Lime Dressing

• The combination of coconut and lime is believed to aid digestion and boost immunity, making it both flavorful and nutritious.
• Its rapid preparation timeoften under five minutesmakes it a favorite among busy home cooks who want gourmet flavor without the fuss.
• Although it is commonly associated with Thai cuisine, its flavor profile has inspired fusion dishes worldwide, from Hawaiian poke bowls to Latin-inspired salads.
• When stored in the refrigerator, it can last up to a week, allowing for batch preparation and convenient use throughout the week.
• Adding variations like minced ginger, garlic, or chili can transform this basic dressing into a completely new experience while keeping the core coconut-lime essence.

FAQ about Coconut-Lime Dressing Recipe