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Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Flavorful and Simple Recipe

by on August 13, 2025
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Dive into the vibrant flavors of Jamaica with this easy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta recipe! With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a dish that bursts with taste. Learn how to cook shrimp to perfection, create a creamy coconut sauce, and discover tips to elevate your meal. Whether you’re a novice or a pro in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s cook!

To make Jamaican shrimp pasta, you need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you will need: - 8 oz fettuccine pasta - 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined - 2 tablespoons coconut oil - 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated - 1 teaspoon allspice - 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried) - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) - 1 cup coconut milk - 2 tablespoons lime juice - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Each ingredient plays a big role in this dish. The shrimp gives the meal its main protein. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are peeled and deveined. The bell pepper and red onion add color and crunch. They give a nice sweet flavor, too. Garlic and ginger bring a warm aroma to the dish. They make everything taste better! The spices reflect Jamaican flavors. Allspice and thyme give it depth, while cayenne adds heat. You can adjust the cayenne to match your taste. Coconut milk is the star of the sauce. It makes it creamy and rich. This ingredient captures the essence of Jamaica. The lime juice adds a bright touch that balances the richness. Using fresh produce and spices is key to success. They bring out the best flavor. A simple garnish of cilantro on top completes the dish. Enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors of this delightful Jamaican shrimp pasta! Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine and cook it until it’s al dente, about 8-10 minutes. You can check if the pasta is done by tasting a piece. It should be firm but cooked through. Once done, drain the pasta, but save about half a cup of the pasta water. This water helps adjust the sauce later. In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of coconut oil over medium heat. This oil gives a nice flavor to the veggies. Add the sliced bell pepper and red onion. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. For the bell pepper, cut off the top, remove the seeds, and slice it thin. For the onion, just slice it thinly as well. This prep work helps the veggies cook evenly. Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes. You know they are ready when they turn pink and opaque. Season them with allspice, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. If you like more heat, add more cayenne. After the shrimp is cooked, lower the heat and pour in the coconut milk. Stir in the lime juice and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water. This will help you get the right sauce consistency. When cooking shrimp, avoid common mistakes. Overcooking shrimp makes them rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, which takes about 3-4 minutes. To select the freshest shrimp, look for shrimp that smell mild and sweet. The shells should be shiny and firm. If possible, buy shrimp that has been frozen right after being caught. This keeps it fresh. To boost the flavor of your Jamaican shrimp pasta, consider adding spices like paprika or fresh basil. A touch of lime zest brightens the dish. Pair your pasta with a side salad or garlic bread. A fresh, crisp salad balances the rich coconut sauce. For attractive plating, twirl the pasta into a nest shape in the bowl. This way, the shrimp and sauce sit nicely on top. Garnish your dish with fresh cilantro and a lime wedge. This adds color and a fresh aroma. You can also sprinkle some extra cayenne for a pop of color and heat. {{image_2}} If you want to switch things up, try using chicken instead of shrimp. Simply cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook them until golden. Tofu is a great choice for a vegetarian twist. Use firm tofu, press it to remove water, and cut it into cubes. Sauté it until crispy for added texture. You can also mix in veggies like zucchini, broccoli, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Fettuccine is a classic choice, but you can use other pasta shapes too. Penne, linguine, or even spaghetti work well. If you need gluten-free options, look for brown rice or chickpea pasta. These alternatives taste great and hold the sauce nicely. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as they may differ from traditional pasta. To change the flavor, add different spices. Consider jerk seasoning for a spicier kick. You can also try adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley. If you prefer a creamier sauce, increase the coconut milk. For a tangy twist, add more lime juice or even a splash of pineapple juice. Adjust these flavors based on your taste and dietary needs. To keep your Jamaican shrimp pasta fresh, follow these steps: - Cool it First: Let the dish cool down to room temp before storing. - Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers for best results. They keep the pasta fresh and tasty. - Separate Shrimp and Pasta: If possible, store shrimp and pasta separately. This helps maintain the texture. When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, here’s how to do it right: - Stovetop Method: Heat a pan on low. Add the pasta and shrimp. Stir gently to avoid sticking. - Add Liquid: If the pasta seems dry, splash in some water or coconut milk. This keeps it creamy. - Avoid Overcooking: Heat until just warm. This prevents the pasta from getting mushy. By following these tips, you can enjoy your Jamaican shrimp pasta days after making it! You can tell shrimp is done when it turns pink and opaque. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes. Look for a firm texture and a curled shape. If it's rubbery, you may have overcooked it. Perfectly cooked shrimp should be tender and juicy. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. First, thaw them in the fridge overnight. For quicker thawing, place them in a sealed bag and run cold water over it. Pat dry before cooking. This step ensures even cooking and helps the shrimp absorb flavors. Serve this dish with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. For drinks, try a fruity mocktail or a light beer. These pairings enhance the meal and add to the tropical vibe. You could also serve it with coconut rice for an extra flavor boost. Jamaican Shrimp Pasta blends flavors from Caribbean cooking. It highlights the island's love for seafood and spices. The dish reflects the culture's vibrant food scene, mixing fresh ingredients with bold flavors. Many Jamaican dishes focus on using local produce and spices, making them unique. Yes, you can make this dish in advance. Cook the shrimp and sauce, then store them separately from the pasta. This helps maintain the pasta's texture. When ready to eat, reheat the shrimp and sauce together. Toss them with the pasta just before serving. In this blog post, we explored the key ingredients for Jamaican Shrimp Pasta, including fresh shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and rich coconut milk. We covered step-by-step instructions to cook the pasta and sauté the vegetables. I shared tips for perfect shrimp, enhancing flavor, and creative variations. Lastly, we discussed proper storage and reheating methods. Overall, Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a simple and delicious dish. With the right techniques, you can enjoy it any time!

Ingredients

Complete List of Ingredients

To make Jamaican shrimp pasta, you need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you will need:

– 8 oz fettuccine pasta

– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 2 tablespoons coconut oil

– 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced

– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

– 1 teaspoon allspice

– 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)

– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

– 1 cup coconut milk

– 2 tablespoons lime juice

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Each ingredient plays a big role in this dish. The shrimp gives the meal its main protein. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are peeled and deveined.

The bell pepper and red onion add color and crunch. They give a nice sweet flavor, too. Garlic and ginger bring a warm aroma to the dish. They make everything taste better!

The spices reflect Jamaican flavors. Allspice and thyme give it depth, while cayenne adds heat. You can adjust the cayenne to match your taste.

Coconut milk is the star of the sauce. It makes it creamy and rich. This ingredient captures the essence of Jamaica. The lime juice adds a bright touch that balances the richness.

Using fresh produce and spices is key to success. They bring out the best flavor. A simple garnish of cilantro on top completes the dish. Enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors of this delightful Jamaican shrimp pasta!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine and cook it until it’s al dente, about 8-10 minutes. You can check if the pasta is done by tasting a piece. It should be firm but cooked through. Once done, drain the pasta, but save about half a cup of the pasta water. This water helps adjust the sauce later.

Sautéing the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of coconut oil over medium heat. This oil gives a nice flavor to the veggies. Add the sliced bell pepper and red onion. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. For the bell pepper, cut off the top, remove the seeds, and slice it thin. For the onion, just slice it thinly as well. This prep work helps the veggies cook evenly.

Cooking the Shrimp and Creating the Sauce

Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes. You know they are ready when they turn pink and opaque. Season them with allspice, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. If you like more heat, add more cayenne. After the shrimp is cooked, lower the heat and pour in the coconut milk. Stir in the lime juice and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water. This will help you get the right sauce consistency.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Cooking Shrimp

When cooking shrimp, avoid common mistakes. Overcooking shrimp makes them rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, which takes about 3-4 minutes.

To select the freshest shrimp, look for shrimp that smell mild and sweet. The shells should be shiny and firm. If possible, buy shrimp that has been frozen right after being caught. This keeps it fresh.

Enhancing Flavor

To boost the flavor of your Jamaican shrimp pasta, consider adding spices like paprika or fresh basil. A touch of lime zest brightens the dish.

Pair your pasta with a side salad or garlic bread. A fresh, crisp salad balances the rich coconut sauce.

Presentation Tips

For attractive plating, twirl the pasta into a nest shape in the bowl. This way, the shrimp and sauce sit nicely on top.

Garnish your dish with fresh cilantro and a lime wedge. This adds color and a fresh aroma. You can also sprinkle some extra cayenne for a pop of color and heat.

Variations

Alternative Protein Options

If you want to switch things up, try using chicken instead of shrimp. Simply cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook them until golden. Tofu is a great choice for a vegetarian twist. Use firm tofu, press it to remove water, and cut it into cubes. Sauté it until crispy for added texture. You can also mix in veggies like zucchini, broccoli, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Different Pasta Types

Fettuccine is a classic choice, but you can use other pasta shapes too. Penne, linguine, or even spaghetti work well. If you need gluten-free options, look for brown rice or chickpea pasta. These alternatives taste great and hold the sauce nicely. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as they may differ from traditional pasta.

Flavor Profile Adjustments

To change the flavor, add different spices. Consider jerk seasoning for a spicier kick. You can also try adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley. If you prefer a creamier sauce, increase the coconut milk. For a tangy twist, add more lime juice or even a splash of pineapple juice. Adjust these flavors based on your taste and dietary needs.

Storage Info

Proper Storage Techniques

To keep your Jamaican shrimp pasta fresh, follow these steps:

– Cool it First: Let the dish cool down to room temp before storing.

– Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers for best results. They keep the pasta fresh and tasty.

– Separate Shrimp and Pasta: If possible, store shrimp and pasta separately. This helps maintain the texture.

Reheating Instructions

When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, here’s how to do it right:

– Stovetop Method: Heat a pan on low. Add the pasta and shrimp. Stir gently to avoid sticking.

– Add Liquid: If the pasta seems dry, splash in some water or coconut milk. This keeps it creamy.

– Avoid Overcooking: Heat until just warm. This prevents the pasta from getting mushy.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your Jamaican shrimp pasta days after making it!

FAQs

How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked?

You can tell shrimp is done when it turns pink and opaque. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes. Look for a firm texture and a curled shape. If it’s rubbery, you may have overcooked it. Perfectly cooked shrimp should be tender and juicy.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. First, thaw them in the fridge overnight. For quicker thawing, place them in a sealed bag and run cold water over it. Pat dry before cooking. This step ensures even cooking and helps the shrimp absorb flavors.

What can I serve with Jamaican Shrimp Pasta?

Serve this dish with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. For drinks, try a fruity mocktail or a light beer. These pairings enhance the meal and add to the tropical vibe. You could also serve it with coconut rice for an extra flavor boost.

Where does Jamaican Shrimp Pasta originate?

Jamaican Shrimp Pasta blends flavors from Caribbean cooking. It highlights the island’s love for seafood and spices. The dish reflects the culture’s vibrant food scene, mixing fresh ingredients with bold flavors. Many Jamaican dishes focus on using local produce and spices, making them unique.

Can this recipe be made in advance?

Yes, you can make this dish in advance. Cook the shrimp and sauce, then store them separately from the pasta. This helps maintain the pasta’s texture. When ready to eat, reheat the shrimp and sauce together. Toss them with the pasta just before serving.

In this blog post, we explored the key ingredients for Jamaican Shrimp Pasta, including fresh shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and rich coconut milk. We covered step-by-step instructions to cook the pasta and sauté the vegetables. I shared tips for perfect shrimp, enhancing flavor, and creative variations. Lastly, we discussed proper storage and reheating methods.

Overall, Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a simple and delicious dish. With the right techniques, you can enjoy it any time!

To make Jamaican shrimp pasta, you need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you will need: - 8 oz fettuccine pasta - 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined - 2 tablespoons coconut oil - 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated - 1 teaspoon allspice - 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried) - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) - 1 cup coconut milk - 2 tablespoons lime juice - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Each ingredient plays a big role in this dish. The shrimp gives the meal its main protein. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are peeled and deveined. The bell pepper and red onion add color and crunch. They give a nice sweet flavor, too. Garlic and ginger bring a warm aroma to the dish. They make everything taste better! The spices reflect Jamaican flavors. Allspice and thyme give it depth, while cayenne adds heat. You can adjust the cayenne to match your taste. Coconut milk is the star of the sauce. It makes it creamy and rich. This ingredient captures the essence of Jamaica. The lime juice adds a bright touch that balances the richness. Using fresh produce and spices is key to success. They bring out the best flavor. A simple garnish of cilantro on top completes the dish. Enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors of this delightful Jamaican shrimp pasta! Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine and cook it until it’s al dente, about 8-10 minutes. You can check if the pasta is done by tasting a piece. It should be firm but cooked through. Once done, drain the pasta, but save about half a cup of the pasta water. This water helps adjust the sauce later. In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of coconut oil over medium heat. This oil gives a nice flavor to the veggies. Add the sliced bell pepper and red onion. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. For the bell pepper, cut off the top, remove the seeds, and slice it thin. For the onion, just slice it thinly as well. This prep work helps the veggies cook evenly. Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes. You know they are ready when they turn pink and opaque. Season them with allspice, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. If you like more heat, add more cayenne. After the shrimp is cooked, lower the heat and pour in the coconut milk. Stir in the lime juice and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water. This will help you get the right sauce consistency. When cooking shrimp, avoid common mistakes. Overcooking shrimp makes them rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, which takes about 3-4 minutes. To select the freshest shrimp, look for shrimp that smell mild and sweet. The shells should be shiny and firm. If possible, buy shrimp that has been frozen right after being caught. This keeps it fresh. To boost the flavor of your Jamaican shrimp pasta, consider adding spices like paprika or fresh basil. A touch of lime zest brightens the dish. Pair your pasta with a side salad or garlic bread. A fresh, crisp salad balances the rich coconut sauce. For attractive plating, twirl the pasta into a nest shape in the bowl. This way, the shrimp and sauce sit nicely on top. Garnish your dish with fresh cilantro and a lime wedge. This adds color and a fresh aroma. You can also sprinkle some extra cayenne for a pop of color and heat. {{image_2}} If you want to switch things up, try using chicken instead of shrimp. Simply cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook them until golden. Tofu is a great choice for a vegetarian twist. Use firm tofu, press it to remove water, and cut it into cubes. Sauté it until crispy for added texture. You can also mix in veggies like zucchini, broccoli, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Fettuccine is a classic choice, but you can use other pasta shapes too. Penne, linguine, or even spaghetti work well. If you need gluten-free options, look for brown rice or chickpea pasta. These alternatives taste great and hold the sauce nicely. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as they may differ from traditional pasta. To change the flavor, add different spices. Consider jerk seasoning for a spicier kick. You can also try adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley. If you prefer a creamier sauce, increase the coconut milk. For a tangy twist, add more lime juice or even a splash of pineapple juice. Adjust these flavors based on your taste and dietary needs. To keep your Jamaican shrimp pasta fresh, follow these steps: - Cool it First: Let the dish cool down to room temp before storing. - Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers for best results. They keep the pasta fresh and tasty. - Separate Shrimp and Pasta: If possible, store shrimp and pasta separately. This helps maintain the texture. When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, here’s how to do it right: - Stovetop Method: Heat a pan on low. Add the pasta and shrimp. Stir gently to avoid sticking. - Add Liquid: If the pasta seems dry, splash in some water or coconut milk. This keeps it creamy. - Avoid Overcooking: Heat until just warm. This prevents the pasta from getting mushy. By following these tips, you can enjoy your Jamaican shrimp pasta days after making it! You can tell shrimp is done when it turns pink and opaque. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes. Look for a firm texture and a curled shape. If it's rubbery, you may have overcooked it. Perfectly cooked shrimp should be tender and juicy. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. First, thaw them in the fridge overnight. For quicker thawing, place them in a sealed bag and run cold water over it. Pat dry before cooking. This step ensures even cooking and helps the shrimp absorb flavors. Serve this dish with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. For drinks, try a fruity mocktail or a light beer. These pairings enhance the meal and add to the tropical vibe. You could also serve it with coconut rice for an extra flavor boost. Jamaican Shrimp Pasta blends flavors from Caribbean cooking. It highlights the island's love for seafood and spices. The dish reflects the culture's vibrant food scene, mixing fresh ingredients with bold flavors. Many Jamaican dishes focus on using local produce and spices, making them unique. Yes, you can make this dish in advance. Cook the shrimp and sauce, then store them separately from the pasta. This helps maintain the pasta's texture. When ready to eat, reheat the shrimp and sauce together. Toss them with the pasta just before serving. In this blog post, we explored the key ingredients for Jamaican Shrimp Pasta, including fresh shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and rich coconut milk. We covered step-by-step instructions to cook the pasta and sauté the vegetables. I shared tips for perfect shrimp, enhancing flavor, and creative variations. Lastly, we discussed proper storage and reheating methods. Overall, Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a simple and delicious dish. With the right techniques, you can enjoy it any time!

Jamaican Shrimp Pasta

Dive into a tropical paradise with this delicious Jamaican Shrimp Pasta recipe! Made with succulent shrimp, colorful bell peppers, and creamy coconut milk, this dish is bursting with flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it's easy to whip up in just 30 minutes. Ready to wow your taste buds?
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Ingredients
  

8 oz fettuccine pasta

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons coconut oil

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced

1 small red onion, thinly sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

1 teaspoon allspice

1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1 cup coconut milk

2 tablespoons lime juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the sliced bell pepper and red onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they soften.

      Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

        Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with allspice, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

          Create the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the coconut milk. Stir in the lime juice and let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

            Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked fettuccine into the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Mix thoroughly, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

              Serve: Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro. Add a lime wedge on the side for an additional zesty kick.

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4