Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight

Name: Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 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; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); Lime wedges, for serving; Optional: 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for extra heat

Imagine the aroma of garlic sautéing gently as plump, juicy shrimp curl in a creamy sauce infused with aromatic spices and coconut milk. The dish is a celebration of vibrant flavors that dance on your palate, blending the richness of the sea with the exotic warmth of Jamaica. Each bite of this Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a promise of a comforting experience, with luscious fettuccine cradling tender shrimp in a sauce that evokes the laid-back vibes of island life.

This recipe is perfect for cozy gatherings with friends and family, or a quick weeknight meal that brings a touch of paradise to your dining table. Whether you’re hosting a tropical-themed dinner party or just yearning for a taste of Jamaica, this dish is sure to delight and satisfy.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutritional Breakdown

Per serving, this Jamaican Shrimp Pasta boasts a well-balanced nutritional profile:

Calories: 430
Protein: 27g
Carbohydrates: 57g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 350mg

Sources for nutritional data include the USDA FoodData Central and the Mayo Clinic, ensuring that this dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports your dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love It

There’s something captivating about the way the scents of ginger and lime intermingle in this dish, providing a taste sensation that is both exotic and comfortingly familiar. The creamy texture of the sauce, combined with the delightful pop of flavors from the jerk seasoning, stirs memories of beach vacations and sunset dinners. This pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s perfect for those chilly nights when you need warmth, or for festive gatherings that call for an impressive dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.

Step-by-Step Instructions

How to Make Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight

Ingredients

8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges, for serving

Optional Ingredients:

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for extra heat

Instructions

Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add Shrimp: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Incorporate Vegetables: Add the diced bell pepper (and cherry tomatoes, if using) and stir for another 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
Create Sauce: Pour in the coconut milk and stir in the Jamaican jerk seasoning and lime juice. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
Combine: Gently fold in the cooked pasta until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Garnish & Serve: Remove from heat, top with fresh cilantro, and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Pro Tips

Avoid overcooking shrimp; they should be just pink and firm but not rubbery.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving; sometimes a little extra lime juice can really brighten the dish.

Best Pairings

To fully enjoy your Jamaican Shrimp Pasta, consider these serving suggestions:

Pair with a refreshing green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
Serve alongside warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
For beverages, a chilled fruit-infused iced tea or a light white wine complements the dish beautifully.

How to Store

Storage Instructions

To keep your Jamaican Shrimp Pasta fresh:

Room Temperature: Best consumed within 2 hours of cooking; do not leave out longer.
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Suitable for freezing, the dish can be stored for up to 2 months. However, the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Recipe Success Tips

For optimal results, follow these expert tips:

Choose large shrimp for better texture and flavor; they hold up well in the sauce.
Use fresh ingredients, particularly lime and cilantro, for an unbeatable taste.
Experiment with varying the level of jerk seasoning based on your spice preference.

Creative Twists

If you want to switch things up, here are some delicious variations you can try:

Vegan Version: Substitute shrimp with cauliflower or chickpeas and use a plant-based milk alternative.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta varieties and ensure your jerk seasoning is gluten-free.
Extra Flavor: Add a touch of fresh ginger and sliced scallions for a flavor boost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp? Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
How do I reheat leftovers? Gently reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk if needed.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If preparing in advance, undercook the pasta slightly and add a bit of water when reheating to avoid overcooking.

This Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to bring a taste of the Caribbean into your home. We encourage you to try it, share your results, and connect with others who celebrate culinary adventures in their kitchens. Happy cooking!