Name: Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon Jamaican jerk seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 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 fresh lime juice; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); Lime wedges, for serving

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Introduction

Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a creamy and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with a rich coconut milk sauce and vibrant jerk seasoning. This fusion pasta is quick to make and perfect for anyone who loves a little tropical spice in their meal.

A round black pan holds creamy orange pasta with a smooth sauce mixed in thick yellow noodles, scattered with small bright red tomato pieces. On top, there are large, curled shrimp with a pink and orange color, with green parsley sprinkled across the dish. The pan rests on a white marbled surface near a blurred bright window. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Jamaican jerk seasoning. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
Step 4: Pour in the coconut milk and lime juice, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes to meld the flavors. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the noodles in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, add more Jamaican jerk seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Substitute shrimp with chicken or scallops for a different protein option.
Use gluten-free pasta if needed, cooking according to package instructions.
Add a handful of spinach or kale at the end for extra greens.
Fresh lime juice can be adjusted to taste—start with less and add more if desired.

Storage

Store leftover shrimp pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.

How to Serve

A close-up of a black pan filled with cooked noodles that are thick and yellow, mixed with many small, orange cooked shrimp on top, some pieces of red bell pepper, and bits of green leafy herbs evenly spread through the dish, all glistening with a light oily sauce. The noodles have a smooth and soft texture, while the shrimp have a firm, slightly shiny surface with specks of black pepper. Steam rises gently from the pan, showing the dish is hot. The scene is set against a white marbled texture in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The jerk seasoning adds a mild to moderate heat depending on the brand and amount used. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less seasoning to suit your taste.