Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta

Embark on a culinary journey to the Caribbean with this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta. This dish combines succulent shrimp, rich coconut milk, and bold Jamaican jerk seasoning to create a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this pasta dish is sure to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Caribbean Flavors: The combination of Jamaican jerk seasoning and coconut milk delivers an authentic taste of the islands.​

• Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of around 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy schedules.​

• Versatile: Easily adaptable to suit different spice preferences and dietary needs.​

• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and enticing aroma make this dish a showstopper at any meal.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined​

• 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine or linguine recommended)​

• 1 tablespoon olive oil​

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped​

• 2 cloves garlic, minced​

• 1 bell pepper, diced (red or yellow for sweetness)​

• 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk​

• 1 tablespoon Jamaican jerk seasoning (adjust to taste)​

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice​

• Salt and pepper, to taste​

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)​

• Lime wedges, for serving​

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.​

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pepper softens.​

3. Cook the Shrimp: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and jerk seasoning. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.​

4. Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the coconut milk and add the fresh lime juice. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.​

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta with the sauce and shrimp. Adjust seasoning as needed.​

6. Serve: Remove from heat. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges on the side.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4​

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes​

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes​

• Total Time: 30 minutes​

Variations

• Protein Alternatives: Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different take on the dish.​

• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.​

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jerk seasoning to control the heat to your preference.​

• Creaminess: For an extra creamy sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.​

• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce if necessary.​

• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.​

FAQs

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the amount of jerk seasoning used. Start with less and add more to suit your taste.​

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.​

Is there a substitute for coconut milk?

Heavy cream can be used, but it will alter the flavor profile.​

What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine or linguine are recommended, but any pasta can be used.​

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare components ahead and combine before serving.​

How can I make it dairy-free?

This recipe is naturally dairy-free when using coconut milk.​

What sides pair well with this pasta?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements the dish well.​

Can I add cheese to this pasta?

While not traditional, a sprinkle of Parmesan can add a savory touch.​

How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp?

Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque; overcooking makes them rubbery.​

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free.​

Conclusion

Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a delightful fusion of Caribbean flavors and comforting pasta, making it a perfect addition to your recipe repertoire.

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Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta

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• Author: Emmily
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a Caribbean-inspired fusion dish that blends juicy shrimp, spicy Jamaican jerk seasoning, and creamy coconut milk, all tossed with tender pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this quick and easy recipe brings bold tropical flavor to your table in just 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

Ingredients:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

8 ounces pasta (fettuccine or linguine recommended)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, diced (red or yellow)

1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk

1 tablespoon Jamaican jerk seasoning (adjust to taste)

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

Salt and pepper, to taste

¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Lime wedges, for serving

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Instructions

Instructions:

1. Cook Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.

2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and bell pepper; cook 2–3 more minutes.

3. Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp to skillet with salt, pepper, and jerk seasoning. Cook 3–4 minutes until pink and cooked through.

4. Make Sauce: Stir in coconut milk and lime juice. Simmer 3–5 minutes. Add reserved pasta water to thin sauce if needed.

5. Combine: Add pasta to skillet. Toss gently to coat. Adjust seasoning.

6. Serve: Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Notes

• Adjust jerk seasoning to control spice level.
• Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.
• To make it even creamier, mix in a splash of heavy cream.
• Not recommended for freezing, as sauce may separate.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Caribbean, Jamaican