Imagine twirling your fork around a plate of creamy, dreamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta, where the vibrant colors and enticing aromas whisk you away to sun-soaked beaches. This dish is like a tropical vacation for your taste buds, with juicy shrimp dancing in a rich sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself after a long week.
I remember the first time I made this recipe; my friends were convinced I had hired a professional chef. Their wide-eyed reactions and compliments filled my kitchen with laughter and joy. Trust me, this Jamaican Shrimp Pasta will leave everyone craving seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Indulge in its bold flavors that bring the Caribbean to your kitchen
- The colorful presentation will impress your guests without breaking a sweat
- It’s versatile enough to pair with different vegetables or spices based on your cravings
I still chuckle when I think about how my sister couldn’t stop talking about this dish for weeks after our family dinner. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Jumbo Shrimp: Fresh or frozen works, but make sure they’re deveined for easy eating.
- Pasta (Linguine or Fettuccine): Choose your favorite pasta; it holds the sauce beautifully.
- Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture that enhances flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; avoid pre-minced varieties for better taste.
- Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers not only add crunch but also brighten up the dish.
- Onion: Yellow or red onions work well; they provide sweetness when sautéed.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice gives a zesty kick that balances the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds an aromatic touch and makes it visually appealing.
- Spices (Paprika, Ginger, and Thyme): These spices create layers of flavor—don’t skip them!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop the bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces while keeping your shrimp ready to go.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, but don’t forget to save some pasta water for later.
Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Toss in chopped onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add bell peppers and stir until slightly softened.
Add the Shrimp : Increase heat to medium-high and add shrimp to the skillet. Cook until they turn pink and opaque—about 3-5 minutes depending on size—flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Create the Sauce : Pour in coconut milk while stirring in lime juice and spices like paprika, ginger, and thyme. Allow it to simmer gently until slightly thickened—around 5 minutes—and feel free to adjust seasoning.
Toss Everything Together : Add cooked pasta to the skillet along with reserved pasta water if needed; mix thoroughly until everything is coated in that luscious sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Now take a moment to admire your creation—this Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is bound to be a showstopper! Enjoy every delicious bite and maybe even share (or not).
You Must Know
- This Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is not just a dish; it’s an experience!
- The vibrant colors and bold flavors create a feast for the senses, making it perfect for any occasion
- Don’t underestimate the power of fresh ingredients; they take this meal to the next level
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing shrimp in a hot pan while cooking pasta simultaneously. This timing ensures everything finishes perfectly together, locking in those delicious flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or add veggies like bell peppers for extra crunch. A sprinkle of lime juice can also elevate the flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture, adding a splash of water if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for the best taste and texture; frozen ones can work, but thaw them properly first
- Don’t overcook your pasta; it should be al dente for that perfect bite
- Season your sauce as you go for balanced flavors that truly shine
Cooking this Jamaican Shrimp Pasta always brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and everyone couldn’t stop raving about the food.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for Jamaican Shrimp Pasta?
Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for best results.
What type of pasta works best with this recipe?
Linguine or fettuccine complements the shrimp and sauce beautifully.
How spicy is this Jamaican Shrimp Pasta recipe?
It has a mild spice; adjust the pepper levels to suit your taste preferences.
Jamaican Shrimp Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a vibrant, tropical dish that transports your taste buds straight to the Caribbean. With juicy shrimp enveloped in a creamy coconut sauce and colorful vegetables, it’s an easy yet impressive meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb jumbo shrimp, deveined
- 8 oz linguine or fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (mixed colors)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients: Chop bell peppers and onions; keep shrimp ready.
- Cook pasta: Boil salted water, add pasta, and cook until al dente. Drain and save some pasta water.
- Sauté veggies: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add onions and garlic; sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes). Add bell peppers; stir until softened.
- Cook shrimp: Increase heat to medium-high, add shrimp to the skillet. Cook until pink and opaque (about 3-5 minutes).
- Make sauce: Pour in coconut milk, lime juice, and spices; simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
- Combine: Toss cooked pasta into the skillet with reserved pasta water if needed. Mix well and garnish with cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 150mg