Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a vibrant dish that bursts with the flavors of the Caribbean. Picture succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a medley of colorful vegetables all tossed together in a creamy, spicy sauce that tantalizes your taste buds.
This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates an unforgettable experience that will leave everyone craving more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Its bold flavors combine sweet and spicy notes for a delightful taste sensation.
- The colorful presentation brightens any table, making it visually appealing.
- Versatile enough for casual meals or special occasions, it’s sure to impress!
Ingredients for Jamaican Shrimp Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp; if using frozen, ensure they are thawed before cooking for best results.
- Pasta: Any long pasta like fettuccine or spaghetti works well; cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Bell Peppers: Choose a mix of colors for visual appeal and sweetness; slice them thinly for even cooking.
- Onion: A medium onion adds depth of flavor; chop it finely to release its natural sweetness as it cooks.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic flavor; mince them finely to maximize their essence in the dish.
- Coconut Milk: This creamy base adds richness; use full-fat for a luxurious texture in the sauce.
- Jerk Seasoning: A key flavor element; use store-bought or homemade jerk seasoning for that authentic Caribbean kick.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Jamaican Shrimp Pasta
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Cook pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onion until translucent. Then add sliced bell peppers and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add shrimp to the skillet and sprinkle with jerk seasoning. Cook until shrimp turn pink and opaque, about three to five minutes.
Step 4: Create Sauce
Pour in coconut milk and stir well to combine. Let it simmer gently for about five minutes so that all flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Pasta
Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the shrimp and sauce mixture. Toss everything together until well coated.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer pasta onto plates and garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired for an extra pop of color. Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Shrimp Pasta!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by searing the shrimp to enhance their flavor, then cook the pasta while preparing the sauce. Finally, combine everything together for a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap shrimp with chicken or turkey for a different protein. Experiment with seasonings like smoked paprika or add vegetables like bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh shrimp for the best taste; frozen shrimp can lose flavor during storage. 2.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; slightly undercooked pasta will absorb sauce flavors better. 3.
- Adjust spices gradually; it’s easier to add more than to reduce heat after cooking.
Cooking this dish for friends once turned into a delightful evening filled with compliments and laughter, reminding me how food brings people together in such beautiful ways.
FAQs :
What is Jamaican Shrimp Pasta?
Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich and flavorful sauce, often inspired by Jamaican spices. This dish typically features pasta tossed with a mix of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices, creating a vibrant meal that’s both comforting and exciting. You can customize the recipe to include chicken or turkey, depending on your preferences, while maintaining the essence of Jamaican cuisine.
How can I adapt Jamaican Shrimp Pasta for dietary restrictions?
To adapt Jamaican Shrimp Pasta for various dietary preferences, you can substitute shrimp with chicken, beef, or turkey. Ensure that all ingredients are free from pork products and avoid using any alcohol in the sauce. Instead of traditional gelatin, use plant-based alternatives such as agar-agar or pectin to maintain texture without compromising dietary needs.
What ingredients do I need for Jamaican Shrimp Pasta?
Essential ingredients for Jamaican Shrimp Pasta include pasta of your choice, shrimp (or an alternative protein), bell peppers, onions, garlic, and fresh herbs. For flavoring, use coconut milk or broth along with spices like allspice and thyme. These components come together to create a delicious, satisfying meal that captures the essence of Caribbean cuisine without any restricted ingredients.
How do I make Jamaican Shrimp Pasta?
To prepare Jamaican Shrimp Pasta, start by cooking your chosen pasta according to package instructions. In a separate pan, sauté chopped vegetables like onions and bell peppers until tender. Add the shrimp (or alternative) and cook until golden. Mix in coconut milk or broth along with spices for flavor. Toss everything together with the cooked pasta, ensuring the dish is well-coated in the sauce before serving.
Conclusion for Jamaican Shrimp Pasta :
Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a vibrant dish that highlights bold flavors while accommodating various dietary preferences. By using chicken or turkey instead of shrimp and avoiding restricted ingredients like alcohol and gelatin, you can create a delicious meal for everyone to enjoy. The combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices ensures that this pasta dish remains satisfying and true to its Caribbean roots. Enjoy this culinary experience at home!

Jamaican Shrimp Pasta
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Jamaican Shrimp Pasta, where succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and colorful vegetables unite in a rich, creamy jerk sauce. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also makes for an impressive meal at family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Bring the essence of the Caribbean to your table with this delightful recipe that’s sure to have everyone asking for seconds.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp (fresh or thawed frozen)
- 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors, sliced)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat)
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sauté chopped onion for about 3 minutes until translucent.
- Add sliced bell peppers and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in shrimp and sprinkle with jerk seasoning. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Pour in coconut milk; stir to combine and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Toss cooked pasta into the skillet with the shrimp mixture until well coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 170mg