Jamaican Shrimp Pasta whisks your taste buds straight to a sun-drenched Caribbean shoreline, bursting with the sweet heat of island spices and the comforting creaminess of coconut. With every forkful, you’ll discover plump, juicy shrimp dancing in a velvety sauce that’s been kissed by smoked paprika, ground allspice, and a kiss of cayenne. This dish brings together vibrant red and green bell peppers for a colorful crunch, while garlic and onion sauté to golden perfection, releasing layers of aromatic flavor. It’s the kind of meal that turns an ordinary weeknight into a festive occasion, perfect for when you’re craving a touch of tropical flair without the airfare.
What makes this recipe even more thrilling is how accessible it is. In just 15 minutes of prep and about 25 minutes of cooking time, you’ll transform pantry staples into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Intermediate home cooks will appreciate the balance of techniques—sautéing, simmering, and tossing—while still enjoying a straightforward, friendly recipe format. Clocking in at around 620 calories per serving, it’s substantial enough for dinner but versatile for a hearty lunch, too. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for two, this Jamaican Shrimp Pasta invites everyone to the table for a celebration of bold flavors and laid-back island vibes.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN JAMAICAN SHRIMP PASTA
Before diving into the step-by-step instructions, let’s explore the star players that make this Jamaican Shrimp Pasta so unforgettable. Each ingredient contributes its own personality—some bring heat, others add creaminess, and a few are simply there to hold everything together in delicious harmony.
- Fettuccine pasta: These wide, ribbon-like noodles soak up the creamy sauce beautifully and provide the perfect canvas for the shrimp and spices to shine.
- Large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The leading protein in this dish, offering sweet, tender bites that curl up beautifully when cooked.
- Olive oil: A heart-healthy fat with a mild fruitiness, it’s essential for sautéing shrimp and veggies without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps the spices cling to the shrimp and vegetables, creating a silky texture in every bite.
- Garlic, minced: Delivers a pungent depth and aromatic base that elevates the entire dish.
- Onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and structure, building layers of flavor during the sauté.
- Red bell pepper, julienned: Brings a sweet, crisp pop of color and enhances the dish’s visual appeal.
- Green bell pepper, julienned: Adds a slightly grassy note that balances the sweetness of its red counterpart.
- Smoked paprika: Imparts a warm, smoky undertone that transports your palate straight to the islands.
- Ground allspice: Often called the “Jamaican spice,” it introduces hints of clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg for authentic depth.
- Dried thyme: Offers earthy, herbal notes that complement the other warm spices.
- Cayenne pepper: Adds a fiery kick—adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
- Coconut milk: Provides a lush, tropical creaminess that tames the heat and binds all the spices together.
- Chicken broth: Lightens the sauce while infusing savory richness.
- Heavy cream: Intensifies the sauce’s luscious texture for a truly indulgent finish.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance every element.
- Fresh lime juice: Brightens the dish with zesty acidity, cutting through the richness.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish: Offers a burst of green freshness and a peppery finish that ties all the flavors together.
HOW TO MAKE JAMAICAN SHRIMP PASTA
Now that we know our key components, let’s walk through how to transform them into a show-stopping meal. Each step is designed to layer flavor, maintain texture, and ensure your shrimp ends up perfectly tender and full of Caribbean spirit.
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding the fettuccine. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil and unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, cooking for 2–3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside to prevent overcooking.
3. In the same pan, add minced garlic, chopped onion, and both red and green bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion starts to caramelize.
4. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, ground allspice, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper, stirring well to coat the vegetables in the aromatic spice blend. Allow the spices to toast for about 30 seconds to deepen their flavors.
5. Pour in the coconut milk, chicken broth, and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then let it cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes luxuriously creamy.
6. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and fresh lime juice, tasting and adjusting each element until the flavors are in perfect balance—bright, spicy, and indulgent.
7. Return the shrimp to the pan along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together over low heat until the shrimp are reheated and the pasta is thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce.
8. Divide the Jamaican Shrimp Pasta among plates and garnish generously with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR JAMAICAN SHRIMP PASTA
When it comes to serving this vibrant dish, presentation and complementary sides can take it from delicious to downright unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply treating yourself, these ideas will help you pair and present your Jamaican Shrimp Pasta with flair.
- Accompany your pasta with warm garlic bread spread generously with butter and roasted garlic for sopping up every last drop of the emerald-tinged sauce. Toast until golden at the edges for that perfect crispy-soft contrast.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad composed of mixed lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion, dressed in a light lime-cilantro vinaigrette to echo the zesty notes in the pasta.
- Elevate the experience by pairing it with a cool, fruity white wine such as a Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc, whose crisp acidity and fruit-forward profile balance the creaminess and spice of the dish.
- For a festive touch, garnish each plate with extra lime wedges and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, adding a nutty crunch that amplifies the tropical theme.
HOW TO STORE JAMAICAN SHRIMP PASTA
Proper storage ensures that every bite remains as vibrant and creamy as the first. Whether you have leftovers or want to prep this dish in advance for a busy weeknight, follow these guidelines to maintain the flavors and textures you worked so hard to create.
Leftovers should be cooled to room temperature before storing to avoid condensation and soggy pasta. Place the Jamaican Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container, sealing it tightly to keep out air and retain moisture. Refrigerate for up to 2 days and reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce’s silky consistency.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to two days. Gently reheat on the stovetop with a small splash of chicken broth to refresh the sauce’s creaminess.
- Freezing: While shrimp-based cream sauces aren’t ideal for long-term freezing, you can freeze the pasta (without shrimp) for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before gently reheating and adding freshly cooked shrimp.
- Separate Components: If you anticipate storing large batches, consider keeping the pasta, sauce, and shrimp in separate containers. This prevents overcooking the shrimp during reheating and maintains each element’s texture.
- Vacuum Sealing: For maximum freshness, vacuum seal individual portions and store in the refrigerator. This method minimizes air exposure and keeps flavors locked in until you’re ready to enjoy.
CONCLUSION
This Jamaican Shrimp Pasta recipe brings a symphony of Caribbean flavors right into your kitchen, celebrating sweet, smoky, spicy, and creamy notes all in one bowl. From the first bite of plump, well-seasoned shrimp to the last swirl of velvety coconut sauce dancing on your fork, each element plays its part in a delicious tropical medley. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a quick simmer, you can transform simple pantry staples into a dish that feels like a mini vacation. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for that final pop of brightness.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later use—whether you’re planning a lively dinner party or seeking a cozy weeknight escape. You can also find a FAQ section below to troubleshoot any questions that come up while you cook. I’d love to hear how your Jamaican Shrimp Pasta turned out, so please leave comments, questions, or feedback if you try the recipe or need a hand at any step. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with the warm spirit of the islands!
Jamaican Shrimp Pasta
Description
This Jamaican Shrimp Pasta features succulent shrimp, colorful peppers, and a creamy coconut sauce, bringing together a delightful mix of spices and tropical flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In a large pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until shrimp is pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
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In the same pan, add garlic, onion, red, and green bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.
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Add smoked paprika, ground allspice, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
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Pour in the coconut milk, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Allow to cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Adjust seasoning as needed.
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Return the shrimp to the pan and add the cooked pasta. Toss well to combine all ingredients and heat through.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Note
- For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or a chopped Scotch bonnet pepper.
- Consider substituting chicken or tofu for shrimp if desired.
- This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to preserve the creaminess.
- For a variation, try using whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
