9 Savory Recipes That Make Coconut Oil The Star

These days, it seems like everyone is digging coconut. People are even learning how to make coconut oil candles at home.

There’s coconut water, coconut milk, shredded coconut, coconut aminos, and even coconut manna to try. Not to mention, coconut oil seems to pop up in just about every smoothie recipe you can find.

But there’s much more to this versatile oil than just amping up a smoothie—in fact, we love it the most in savory recipes. And don’t think that means only tropical dishes. Coconut oil can multitask in everything from fried chicken to broccolini salad. Try a few of our favorites for yourself—we promise, you’ll be a coconut oil convert!

Add Sriracha and Coconut to Chicken For a Spicy-Sweet Stir Fry

This drool-worthy dish uses coconut three ways—in oil, aminos, and flakes. Fix up this easy entree for a supremely satisfying dinner.

Refuel and Re-energize With This Yogi Lentil Bowl

Protein-packed lentils and quinoa form the base for this hearty bowl. Topped with a fresh carrot and beet slaw, this dish makes the perfect vegan entree.

This Gluten-Free Take on Fried Okra Will Rock Your World

Never tasted fried okra? You’ve got to try this Southern delicacy. Here, we’ve fried it in coconut oil for even more flavor.

This Red Curry Salmon Bowl Brings The Heat—And The Flavor

A creamy Thai red curry envelopes salmon and kelp noodles in this dish that comes together in less than 30 minutes. On a chilly fall night, there’s no more satisfying dinner.

These Savory Carrot Pancakes Will Take Your Lunch To The Next Level

Crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, these carrot pancakes make the perfect base for sorrel pesto and a sunny-side up egg.

Broccolini Shines in This Sweet and Spicy Salad

Even broccoli haters will like this side. Lightly sauteed broccolini gets slathered in a tangy coconut oil vinaigrette to really take things up a notch.

With Chicken Wings This Flavorful, Who Needs Sauce?

What’s game day without chicken wings? This option is not only gluten-free and Paleo-friendly, but also finger-lickin’ good.

Paleo-Friendly Crab Cakes To Whet Your Appetite

A perennial favorite, crab cakes are often held together with starchy bread crumbs and dunked in mayonnaise. These, on the other hand, remain delectably light and fresh.

The Secret To Delicious Creamed Spinach—Without Any Dairy

Pair this dairy-free creamed spinach with a simply grilled steak or use it to make eggs florentine. However you enjoy it, spinach has never tasted so good.

Photo credit: Paul Delmont