Coconut Shrimp Alfredo with Basil Cream Sauce

 

Coconut Shrimp Alfredo with Basil Cream Sauce
Serves 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients
For the Coconut Shrimp:
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Basil Cream Alfredo Sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Zest and juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or pasta of choice
Instructions
Prepare the Coconut Shrimp:

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Set up a breading station: place the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and a mixture of shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs in a third.
Dredge each shrimp in the flour, dip in the beaten egg, then coat in the coconut-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the shrimp in batches, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Prepare the Basil Cream Alfredo Sauce:

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it begins to thicken.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, then add the lemon zest and juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Continue simmering for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
Cook the Pasta:

Meanwhile, cook the fettuccine (or pasta of choice) in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drai