Introduction
Transform humble pasta into a vibrant, flavorful feast with this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta! Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers Caribbean sunshine on your plate in under 30 minutes. Forget takeout – this explosion of flavor is easier and faster than you think!
Why This Works
This recipe’s magic lies in its simplicity and bold flavor profile. The creamy coconut milk sauce perfectly complements the sweet shrimp and the vibrant blend of Jamaican jerk seasoning. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, requiring minimal effort for maximum deliciousness. Get ready to impress!
Key Ingredients
- 🍤 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 🍝 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 🥛 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
- 🫑 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 🌿 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 🇯🇲 2 tbsp Jamaican jerk seasoning
- 🧈 2 tbsp butter
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌶️ 1/2 – 1 Scotch Bonnet pepper, finely minced (adjust to your spice preference)
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3️⃣ Stir in garlic and Scotch Bonnet pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute more.
4️⃣ Add shrimp and jerk seasoning; cook until shrimp is pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.
5️⃣ Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until sauce slightly thickens.
6️⃣ Stir in cooked pasta and cilantro. Serve immediately.
Handy Tips
- Prep your veggies ahead of time for even faster cooking. Chop them the night before and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the shrimp. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more jerk seasoning for extra heat, or a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.
Heat Control
Medium heat is key for this recipe. High heat will burn the garlic and peppers before the onions soften, while low heat will result in undercooked shrimp and a watery sauce. Maintain a consistent medium heat throughout the cooking process for best results.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe focuses on a creamy, smooth texture, you can add a delightful crunch by topping with toasted coconut flakes or chopped peanuts just before serving.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in jerk seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use pre-chopped garlic and onions for ultimate speed.
- Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Storage Tips
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish makes a fantastic gift! Package individual portions in attractive containers adorned with a Caribbean-themed label or ribbon for a thoughtful and delicious present.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Mango: Add 1/2 cup diced mango and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a sweet and spicy kick.
🌟 Pineapple Paradise: Incorporate 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple along with the coconut milk for a tropical twist.
🌟 Creamy Avocado: Blend 1/2 an avocado into the sauce for a richer, creamier texture.
🌟 Shrimp Scampi Fusion: Omit the jerk seasoning and add 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp butter, and some chopped parsley for a Caribbean-Italian fusion.
Troubleshooting
- Shrimp is overcooked: Overcooked shrimp becomes tough and rubbery. Ensure you cook the shrimp only until it turns pink and opaque.
- Sauce is too thin: Simmer the sauce for a few more minutes to allow the coconut milk to thicken. You can also whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water to thicken it further.
- Sauce is too thick: Add a splash of water or coconut milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, thaw the shrimp completely before cooking.
- Can I substitute other vegetables? Feel free to use other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or broccoli.
- What type of pasta is best? Penne, rotini, and fusilli work well, but you can use any short pasta you prefer.
- Can I make this ahead of time? It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it before adding the cooked pasta and shrimp.
- How spicy is this recipe? The spiciness depends on the amount of Scotch Bonnet pepper you use. Start with a small amount and add more if you prefer it spicier.
Conclusion
This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta is your new go-to weeknight meal! It’s quick, easy, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for impressing friends and family. Share this recipe with your fellow busy cooks and enjoy the rave reviews! Don’t forget to rate and review on RateMyRecipes.com!
30-Minute Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: Rasta-liciously Fast
A quick and delicious creamy shrimp pasta with a Jamaican twist, perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon Jamaican jerk seasoning
- 1 cup spinach, fresh
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic, sautu00e9 until translucent.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 3-5 minutes.
- Pour in the coconut milk and add the Jamaican jerk seasoning. Stir well to combine.
- Add the fresh spinach and let it wilt in the sauce, about 2 minutes.
- Mix in the cooked fettuccine pasta, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in jerk seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or broccoli for added nutrition.