Battle through the last few weeks of winter with a little taste of sunshine. These beautiful coconut milk recipes will transport you to warm, colourful beaches and the homes of lively, delicate cuisines. Whether you like light and zingy Thai-style food or the rich depths of a flavourful chicken korma, the smooth, silky texture of sweet coconut milk is the perfect counterweight to vivacious spices. Is your mouth watering yet? Here are some of our favourite coconut milk recipes.

Monkfish with Coconut Milk and Chives

This Thai-inspired main is a playful dish sure to leave your guests smiling. Break open the dainty parcels of perfectly baked monkfish and get swept away by smooth, sweet coconut milk combined with light and fiery chillies, chives, lemongrass and lime.

Chicken Coconut Curry

You won't believe that this vibrant curry is so quick to make. Taking just 30 minutes from prep to table, the exotic combination of eight different spices and dreamy coconut milk brings a whole host of authentic layers of flavour to this punchy but light dish.

Mild Coconut Rice

Though the perfect accompaniment to your chicken coconut curry, this light coconut rice perfectly counters the bold spices of any lively main. While the silky creamed coconut brings life to fluffy rice, the crunch of aromatic caraway gives this dish a whole new flavour dimension. For a lighter side, substitute the creamed coconut for coconut milk.

Lemon and Coconut Prawns with a Mango and Chive Dip

We challenge you to find a more exotic starter than beautifully juicy prawns, shrouded in a crispy coconut coating. Accompanied by sweet mango and chives, the only thing missing is a sun-drenched beach. Substitute some of the Greek yogurt for coconut milk for a truly indulgent dip.

Coconut Cinnamon Squares

What exotic meal would be complete without dessert? With just four ingredients – sugar, spice, condensed milk and fresh, crumbling coconut – these little demons are wonderfully moreish. Sweet and refreshing, these coconut cinnamon squares are just the right amount of naughty. Try substituting some of the condensed milk for coconut milk, or dunk in melted chocolate and desiccated coconut for an extra decadent touch.