Flavorful Jamaican Shrimp Pasta

If you’re looking to elevate your pasta game, look no further than the vibrant and mouthwatering Jamaican Shrimp Pasta. This dish combines the rich culinary traditions of Jamaica with the comforting heartiness of pasta, resulting in an unforgettable dining experience. Bursting with flavors from the Caribbean, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a feast for the senses.

Ingredients

To whip up your own Jamaican Shrimp Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces of pasta (linguine or penne works best)
• Salt (for pasta water)

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

1. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with the Jamaican jerk seasoning until well coated.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic, onion, and bell pepper, sautéing until the vegetables are tender, around 4-5 minutes.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and lime juice, then bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine

1. Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate your Jamaican Shrimp Pasta and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
2. Enjoy with a slice of lime on the side for an extra zest!

Tips and Variations

• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of jerk seasoning used. Alternatively, you can add extra seasoning for a spicier kick.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables, such as spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes, for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Serve It Cold: This dish can also be served cold as a pasta salad. Just let it cool down and serve with a squeeze of lime.

Conclusion

Jamaican Shrimp Pasta captures the essence of Caribbean cuisine—full of flavor and warmth. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish is sure to impress. Try it out and let the tropical flavors transport you straight to the shores of Jamaica!