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Jamaican Creamy Shrimp Pasta Flavorful and Simple Dish

by on December 22, 2024

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Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? Jamaican Creamy Shrimp Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors that can transform any meal. It combines fresh shrimp, creamy sauce, and a hint of spice in a simple dish. I’ll guide you through each step, sharing tips and tricks to make this dish your new favorite. Let’s dive into a bowl of rich, tropical goodness you won’t forget!

To make Jamaican creamy shrimp pasta, you need: - 8 oz fettuccine pasta - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 medium onion, finely diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced - 1 small green bell pepper, finely diced - 1 cup creamy coconut milk - 1 tablespoon Jamaican jerk seasoning - 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lime juice - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro, roughly chopped, for garnish - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra creaminess) If you cannot find some ingredients, here are a few substitutes: - Fettuccine can be replaced with spaghetti or penne. - For shrimp, you can use chicken or tofu for a different protein. - Olive oil can be swapped out for butter or coconut oil. - Use any bell pepper color if red or green are unavailable. - If you want a dairy-free option, skip the Parmesan cheese. When buying shrimp, look for these signs: - Fresh shrimp should smell like the ocean, not fishy. - Choose shrimp that are firm to the touch. - Check for a slight sheen; this shows freshness. - If possible, buy shrimp with shells on for better flavor. - Always ask for wild-caught shrimp if you can, as they often taste better. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine and cook it for 8-10 minutes. You want it al dente, so check the package for the right time. Once done, drain the pasta. Don’t forget to save ½ cup of the pasta water for later! In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook it for 3-4 minutes. Stir often until the onion is clear and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute. The smell will be amazing! Now, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Jamaican jerk seasoning. Cook the shrimp for about 4-5 minutes. They should turn pink and opaque when done. Take the shrimp out and set them aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add 1 small red bell pepper and 1 small green bell pepper, both diced. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they soften. Next, pour in 1 cup of creamy coconut milk. Mix well and scrape the tasty bits from the bottom of the pan. Return the cooked shrimp back to the skillet. Add the fettuccine to the coconut sauce. Gently toss everything together to combine. If the sauce feels thick, slowly add some of the reserved pasta water. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a zesty touch. If you want extra creaminess, sprinkle in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir it until melted and mixed in well. Taste your dish and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Finally, serve your creamy shrimp pasta hot, topped with fresh cilantro for a lovely finish! To get that rich, creamy texture, use good-quality coconut milk. This adds a nice depth of flavor. If you want it even creamier, stir in some grated Parmesan cheese. It melts well and adds extra creaminess. Jamaican jerk seasoning can pack a punch. If you prefer less heat, start with half the amount. You can always add more later. Taste as you go, and find your perfect balance. To make your dish look great, use shallow bowls. Serve the pasta and top it with fresh cilantro. Add a lime wedge on the side for a pop of color. This simple step makes your meal feel special. Pro Tips Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, always use fresh shrimp instead of frozen. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Adjust Spice Level: The level of heat in Jamaican jerk seasoning can vary. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste preference, especially if serving to guests. Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining. It’s a great way to adjust the sauce consistency and helps the sauce adhere better to the pasta. Garnish for Freshness: Garnish your dish generously with fresh cilantro and lime. This not only adds color but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. {{image_4}} You can change the pasta for this dish to suit your taste. Fettuccine works great, but you can use spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Each type gives a unique feel to the meal. Just cook it like the fettuccine in the recipe. The key is to pick a pasta that holds the sauce well. Adding veggies can make this dish even better. You can throw in spinach, broccoli, or zucchini. These veggies add color and nutrients. Simply chop them and sauté with the onions and peppers. This extra step makes your dish more exciting and healthy. If you want to keep this dish dairy-free, skip the Parmesan cheese. The creamy coconut milk already adds a rich taste. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This keeps the dish light and suitable for those avoiding dairy products. Store any leftover Jamaican creamy shrimp pasta in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature first. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or coconut milk to help with moisture. Stir often for about 5-7 minutes until it's warmed through. You can also microwave it in a bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. You can freeze Jamaican creamy shrimp pasta, but the shrimp may change texture. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It will last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. If you need a substitute for coconut milk, you can use almond milk or soy milk. Both will work well. For creaminess, try adding a bit of heavy cream. Coconut milk gives the dish a sweet, tropical taste, so keep that in mind when choosing replacements. You can tell shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes. If the shrimp curls into a C shape, it is also a sign they are done. Overcooking can make shrimp tough, so watch them closely. You can prepare some parts ahead of time. Cook the pasta and shrimp, then store them separately in the fridge. When you are ready, just heat the sauce and combine everything. This makes it easy for a quick meal later. Jamaican jerk seasoning can be spicy, but the heat level varies. Some blends are milder, while others pack a punch. If you like it spicy, use more seasoning. If you prefer less heat, use a smaller amount. Adjust to your taste. Good sides include a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with garlic bread or rice. These sides will complement the creamy flavors of the pasta and shrimp. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations! This blog post covered the key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for Jamaican Creamy Shrimp Pasta. I shared how to select fresh shrimp and substitute ingredients. You learned how to cook each part, combine them, and achieve creaminess. Don’t forget to try different pasta types or extras for fun new twists. In the end, enjoy making this dish your own. Happy cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Delicious Tropical Flavor: The combination of creamy coconut milk and Jamaican jerk seasoning creates a rich and flavorful sauce that transports you straight to the islands.
  2. Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.
  3. Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap out shrimp for chicken or vegetables, allowing you to tailor the dish to your personal preferences.
  4. Beautiful Presentation: The colorful bell peppers and fresh cilantro not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant touch to your plate, making it visually appealing.

Ingredients

Complete List of Ingredients

To make Jamaican creamy shrimp pasta, you need:

– 8 oz fettuccine pasta

– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 medium onion, finely diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced

– 1 small green bell pepper, finely diced

– 1 cup creamy coconut milk

– 1 tablespoon Jamaican jerk seasoning

– 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lime juice

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

– Fresh cilantro, roughly chopped, for garnish

– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra creaminess)

Ingredient Substitutes

If you cannot find some ingredients, here are a few substitutes:

– Fettuccine can be replaced with spaghetti or penne.

– For shrimp, you can use chicken or tofu for a different protein.

– Olive oil can be swapped out for butter or coconut oil.

– Use any bell pepper color if red or green are unavailable.

– If you want a dairy-free option, skip the Parmesan cheese.

Notes on Selecting Fresh Shrimp

When buying shrimp, look for these signs:

– Fresh shrimp should smell like the ocean, not fishy.

– Choose shrimp that are firm to the touch.

– Check for a slight sheen; this shows freshness.

– If possible, buy shrimp with shells on for better flavor.

– Always ask for wild-caught shrimp if you can, as they often taste better.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine and cook it for 8-10 minutes. You want it al dente, so check the package for the right time. Once done, drain the pasta. Don’t forget to save ½ cup of the pasta water for later!

Sautéing the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook it for 3-4 minutes. Stir often until the onion is clear and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute. The smell will be amazing!

Cooking the Shrimp

Now, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Jamaican jerk seasoning. Cook the shrimp for about 4-5 minutes. They should turn pink and opaque when done. Take the shrimp out and set them aside on a plate.

Preparing the Coconut Sauce

In the same skillet, add 1 small red bell pepper and 1 small green bell pepper, both diced. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they soften. Next, pour in 1 cup of creamy coconut milk. Mix well and scrape the tasty bits from the bottom of the pan.

Combining All Ingredients

Return the cooked shrimp back to the skillet. Add the fettuccine to the coconut sauce. Gently toss everything together to combine. If the sauce feels thick, slowly add some of the reserved pasta water. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a zesty touch.

Finalizing the Dish

If you want extra creaminess, sprinkle in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir it until melted and mixed in well. Taste your dish and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Finally, serve your creamy shrimp pasta hot, topped with fresh cilantro for a lovely finish!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Creaminess

To get that rich, creamy texture, use good-quality coconut milk. This adds a nice depth of flavor. If you want it even creamier, stir in some grated Parmesan cheese. It melts well and adds extra creaminess.

Adjusting Spice Levels

Jamaican jerk seasoning can pack a punch. If you prefer less heat, start with half the amount. You can always add more later. Taste as you go, and find your perfect balance.

Presentation Tips for Serving

To make your dish look great, use shallow bowls. Serve the pasta and top it with fresh cilantro. Add a lime wedge on the side for a pop of color. This simple step makes your meal feel special.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, always use fresh shrimp instead of frozen. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
  2. Adjust Spice Level: The level of heat in Jamaican jerk seasoning can vary. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste preference, especially if serving to guests.
  3. Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining. It’s a great way to adjust the sauce consistency and helps the sauce adhere better to the pasta.
  4. Garnish for Freshness: Garnish your dish generously with fresh cilantro and lime. This not only adds color but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Variations

Using Different Pasta Types

You can change the pasta for this dish to suit your taste. Fettuccine works great, but you can use spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Each type gives a unique feel to the meal. Just cook it like the fettuccine in the recipe. The key is to pick a pasta that holds the sauce well.

Incorporating Additional Vegetables

Adding veggies can make this dish even better. You can throw in spinach, broccoli, or zucchini. These veggies add color and nutrients. Simply chop them and sauté with the onions and peppers. This extra step makes your dish more exciting and healthy.

Making it Dairy-Free

If you want to keep this dish dairy-free, skip the Parmesan cheese. The creamy coconut milk already adds a rich taste. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This keeps the dish light and suitable for those avoiding dairy products.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Jamaican creamy shrimp pasta in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature first. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or coconut milk to help with moisture. Stir often for about 5-7 minutes until it’s warmed through. You can also microwave it in a bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

Freezing the Dish

You can freeze Jamaican creamy shrimp pasta, but the shrimp may change texture. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It will last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What can I substitute for coconut milk?

If you need a substitute for coconut milk, you can use almond milk or soy milk. Both will work well. For creaminess, try adding a bit of heavy cream. Coconut milk gives the dish a sweet, tropical taste, so keep that in mind when choosing replacements.

How do I know when shrimp are cooked?

You can tell shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes. If the shrimp curls into a C shape, it is also a sign they are done. Overcooking can make shrimp tough, so watch them closely.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare some parts ahead of time. Cook the pasta and shrimp, then store them separately in the fridge. When you are ready, just heat the sauce and combine everything. This makes it easy for a quick meal later.

Is Jamaican jerk seasoning spicy?

Jamaican jerk seasoning can be spicy, but the heat level varies. Some blends are milder, while others pack a punch. If you like it spicy, use more seasoning. If you prefer less heat, use a smaller amount. Adjust to your taste.

What sides pair well with Jamaican Creamy Shrimp Pasta?

Good sides include a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with garlic bread or rice. These sides will complement the creamy flavors of the pasta and shrimp. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations!

This blog post covered the key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for Jamaican Creamy Shrimp Pasta. I shared how to select fresh shrimp and substitute ingredients. You learned how to cook each part, combine them, and achieve creaminess. Don’t forget to try different pasta types or extras for fun new twists.

In the end, enjoy making this dish your own. Happy cookin

To make Jamaican creamy shrimp pasta, you need: - 8 oz fettuccine pasta - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 medium onion, finely diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced - 1 small green bell pepper, finely diced - 1 cup creamy coconut milk - 1 tablespoon Jamaican jerk seasoning - 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lime juice - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro, roughly chopped, for garnish - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra creaminess) If you cannot find some ingredients, here are a few substitutes: - Fettuccine can be replaced with spaghetti or penne. - For shrimp, you can use chicken or tofu for a different protein. - Olive oil can be swapped out for butter or coconut oil. - Use any bell pepper color if red or green are unavailable. - If you want a dairy-free option, skip the Parmesan cheese. When buying shrimp, look for these signs: - Fresh shrimp should smell like the ocean, not fishy. - Choose shrimp that are firm to the touch. - Check for a slight sheen; this shows freshness. - If possible, buy shrimp with shells on for better flavor. - Always ask for wild-caught shrimp if you can, as they often taste better. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine and cook it for 8-10 minutes. You want it al dente, so check the package for the right time. Once done, drain the pasta. Don’t forget to save ½ cup of the pasta water for later! In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook it for 3-4 minutes. Stir often until the onion is clear and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute. The smell will be amazing! Now, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Jamaican jerk seasoning. Cook the shrimp for about 4-5 minutes. They should turn pink and opaque when done. Take the shrimp out and set them aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add 1 small red bell pepper and 1 small green bell pepper, both diced. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they soften. Next, pour in 1 cup of creamy coconut milk. Mix well and scrape the tasty bits from the bottom of the pan. Return the cooked shrimp back to the skillet. Add the fettuccine to the coconut sauce. Gently toss everything together to combine. If the sauce feels thick, slowly add some of the reserved pasta water. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a zesty touch. If you want extra creaminess, sprinkle in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir it until melted and mixed in well. Taste your dish and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Finally, serve your creamy shrimp pasta hot, topped with fresh cilantro for a lovely finish! To get that rich, creamy texture, use good-quality coconut milk. This adds a nice depth of flavor. If you want it even creamier, stir in some grated Parmesan cheese. It melts well and adds extra creaminess. Jamaican jerk seasoning can pack a punch. If you prefer less heat, start with half the amount. You can always add more later. Taste as you go, and find your perfect balance. To make your dish look great, use shallow bowls. Serve the pasta and top it with fresh cilantro. Add a lime wedge on the side for a pop of color. This simple step makes your meal feel special. Pro Tips Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, always use fresh shrimp instead of frozen. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Adjust Spice Level: The level of heat in Jamaican jerk seasoning can vary. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste preference, especially if serving to guests. Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining. It’s a great way to adjust the sauce consistency and helps the sauce adhere better to the pasta. Garnish for Freshness: Garnish your dish generously with fresh cilantro and lime. This not only adds color but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. {{image_4}} You can change the pasta for this dish to suit your taste. Fettuccine works great, but you can use spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Each type gives a unique feel to the meal. Just cook it like the fettuccine in the recipe. The key is to pick a pasta that holds the sauce well. Adding veggies can make this dish even better. You can throw in spinach, broccoli, or zucchini. These veggies add color and nutrients. Simply chop them and sauté with the onions and peppers. This extra step makes your dish more exciting and healthy. If you want to keep this dish dairy-free, skip the Parmesan cheese. The creamy coconut milk already adds a rich taste. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This keeps the dish light and suitable for those avoiding dairy products. Store any leftover Jamaican creamy shrimp pasta in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature first. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or coconut milk to help with moisture. Stir often for about 5-7 minutes until it's warmed through. You can also microwave it in a bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. You can freeze Jamaican creamy shrimp pasta, but the shrimp may change texture. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It will last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. If you need a substitute for coconut milk, you can use almond milk or soy milk. Both will work well. For creaminess, try adding a bit of heavy cream. Coconut milk gives the dish a sweet, tropical taste, so keep that in mind when choosing replacements. You can tell shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes. If the shrimp curls into a C shape, it is also a sign they are done. Overcooking can make shrimp tough, so watch them closely. You can prepare some parts ahead of time. Cook the pasta and shrimp, then store them separately in the fridge. When you are ready, just heat the sauce and combine everything. This makes it easy for a quick meal later. Jamaican jerk seasoning can be spicy, but the heat level varies. Some blends are milder, while others pack a punch. If you like it spicy, use more seasoning. If you prefer less heat, use a smaller amount. Adjust to your taste. Good sides include a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with garlic bread or rice. These sides will complement the creamy flavors of the pasta and shrimp. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations! This blog post covered the key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for Jamaican Creamy Shrimp Pasta. I shared how to select fresh shrimp and substitute ingredients. You learned how to cook each part, combine them, and achieve creaminess. Don’t forget to try different pasta types or extras for fun new twists. In the end, enjoy making this dish your own. Happy cooking!

Jamaican Creamy Shrimp Pasta

A delicious and creamy pasta dish with shrimp, infused with Jamaican flavors.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Jamaican
Servings 4
Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz fettuccine pasta
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 small green bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 cup creamy coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon Jamaican jerk seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lime juice
  • to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • for garnish fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra creaminess)

Instructions
 

  • Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Remember to reserve ½ cup of the pasta water for later use.
  • Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and tender. Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional minute, allowing its fragrance to develop.
  • Cook Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Jamaican jerk seasoning. Cook the shrimp for approximately 4-5 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
  • Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add the diced red and green bell peppers. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Then pour in the creamy coconut milk, stirring to combine while scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.
  • Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the coconut sauce. Add the fettuccine to the mixture, gently tossing to ensure all ingredients are well combined. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Finish with a drizzle of fresh lime juice and mix well.
  • Finish the Dish: If you choose, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese at this point. Stir until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed, enhancing the creaminess of the dish. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
  • Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the creamy shrimp pasta immediately, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro for a touch of color and added freshness.

Notes

For a beautiful presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and garnish with additional cilantro and a wedge of lime on the side.
Keyword coconut, creamy, Jamaican, pasta, shrimp

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