Coconut Panna Cotta with Strawberry Coulis

A light, creamy and nourishing spring dessert (vegan, GF, DF)

For the past two Easters, this dessert has become one of my absolute favourites. And every single time, it’s a hit. It’s one of those recipes that people don’t expect to be this good.
Light, silky, gently sweet… and yet made with simple, nourishing ingredients. This Coconut Panna Cotta with Fresh Strawberry Coulis tastes like spring in a glass. The coconut base is incredibly creamy and smooth, while the strawberry-lime coulis brings a fresh, slightly tangy contrast that makes the whole dessert feel vibrant and alive. What I love most is that this is not just a “pretty dessert” it actually supports your body: healthy fats help with satiety and stable energy; fiber from chia seeds supports digestion and gut health and vitamin C from fresh strawberries boosts the immune system.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 400 ml full-fat coconut milk

• 1/2 tsp (2 g) agar-agar powder

• 1–2 tbsp maple syrup (adjust to taste)

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of fine sea salt

Optional (for extra creaminess):

• 50 ml almond or cashew milk

For the Fresh Strawberry Chia Coulis

• 250 g fresh strawberries, chopped

• 1 tbsp white chia seeds
  (or 1/4 tsp agar-agar dissolved in warm water for a smoother texture)

• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)

• Juice and zest of 1/2 lime

For garnish

• Fresh strawberries, sliced

• Toasted coconut or almond flakes

• Fresh mint leaves

• Lime zest

Method

In a small saucepan, whisk together coconut milk, agar-agar, maple syrup, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.

Tip: dissolve the agar-agar first in a small amount of coconut milk to avoid clumping.

Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for about 3 minutes to fully activate the agar-agar (avoid boiling).

Remove from heat and let cool slightly for 2–3 minutes.

Pour into serving glasses (around 100 ml per portion). Let cool at room temperature for 15 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, until fully set.

Blend strawberries, lime juice, and maple syrup until smooth.

Stir in white chia seeds and let sit for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until naturally thickened.

For a smoother texture, you can blend again after thickening.

Once the panna cotta is fully set, spoon about 50 ml of strawberry coulis over each portion.

Finish with fresh strawberries, toasted coconut flakes, mint, and a touch of lime zest.

Serve chilled.

Bon Appétit! Enjoy!

If you try it, I’d love to hear what you think. Or tag me on instagram, I always enjoy seeing your creations.