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Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Flavorful and Simple Dish

by on July 26, 2025
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Discover the joy of cooking with my Jamaican Shrimp Pasta recipe! It’s a vibrant and tasty dish that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. Imagine succulent shrimp paired with zesty spices swirling around pasta. In this post, you’ll find clear steps, essential tips, and fun ways to customize every bite. Join me as we turn simple ingredients into a delightful meal everyone will love!

This Jamaican Coconut Shrimp Pasta is a fun and tasty dish. It features shrimp, pasta, and coconut flavors. The jerk seasoning adds a unique kick. You can serve it with lime for extra zest. This dish is easy to make and perfect for any day. - 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 1 tablespoon coconut oil - 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced - 1/2 cup coconut milk - 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth - 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning - 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste) - Salt and black pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish - Lime wedges, for serving - Add veggies like spinach or zucchini for more color. - Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. - For more heat, add more chili flakes. - Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for different flavors. - Use lime juice instead of lime wedges for a tangy kick. Feel free to mix and match these options to make the recipe your own! Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt to the water for flavor. Cook the spaghetti or fettuccine as per the package. Aim for an al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta but save a cup of its water. Set the pasta aside. While the pasta cooks, chop the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Make sure the shrimp is peeled and deveined. This way, everything is ready for quick cooking. Heat coconut oil in a large skillet on medium heat. Add the chopped onion first. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it softens. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir often to keep it from burning. Next, add the shrimp into the skillet. Sprinkle jerk seasoning and chili flakes evenly over them. Cook for 2-3 minutes. You want the shrimp to turn pink and opaque. This shows they are fully cooked. Now, pour in the coconut milk and broth. Mix it well to combine all the flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for another 3-4 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend nicely. If the sauce gets too thick, use the reserved pasta water. Add it slowly until you reach your desired consistency. To get perfectly cooked shrimp, watch the color. They should turn from gray to pink. This change means they are ready. Avoid cooking them too long; otherwise, they can become tough. Always ensure to season your shrimp well. The jerk seasoning adds a lot of flavor. You can adjust the chili flakes based on your spice preference. Finally, toss the drained pasta into the skillet. Mix well to coat the pasta with the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and lime wedges. Enjoy this vibrant dish! For the full recipe, refer to the section above. To boost the taste of your Jamaican shrimp pasta, focus on fresh herbs. Use cilantro or parsley for a bright finish. Lime juice adds a zesty kick that wakes up the dish. Also, consider adding fresh ginger for a warm flavor. A splash of soy sauce can deepen the umami notes too. One common mistake is overcooking the shrimp. You want them tender, not rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. Another mistake is skipping the reserved pasta water. This starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta. Lastly, don’t forget to season your dish well. Salt and pepper are key! If you prefer a milder dish, cut back on jerk seasoning and chili flakes. You can also add more coconut milk for creaminess. For extra heat, try adding fresh chopped chili or more chili flakes. Just remember to taste as you go. Adjusting flavors while cooking ensures you get it just right. For the complete guide, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} To make this dish vegetarian or vegan, you can swap the shrimp. Try using chickpeas or tofu instead. Both options soak up flavors well and add protein. For the broth, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Replace the coconut milk with a plant-based cream for a vegan spin. You still get that creamy texture and rich taste. If you want a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands make great spaghetti or fettuccine alternatives. You can also use rice noodles for a different texture. Just remember to check the ingredient label to ensure they are truly gluten-free. Feel free to get creative with regional ingredients! Instead of jerk seasoning, you can use Cajun spices for a different flavor profile. If you can't find coconut milk, try using almond milk or cashew cream. You can even add local vegetables like zucchini or corn for a fresh twist. Each swap gives a new taste to the dish. For the full recipe, check out the Jamaican Coconut Shrimp Pasta. After you enjoy your Jamaican shrimp pasta, let it cool. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps your meal fresh and tasty. When you're ready to eat again, take the pasta out of the fridge. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. If using the stove, add a splash of broth or coconut milk. This helps restore the creamy sauce. Heat it gently until warm. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. Put it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It can stay frozen for up to three months. When you want to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned earlier. Enjoy the flavors of Jamaica anytime! You can serve Jamaican shrimp pasta with a fresh side salad. A simple green salad pairs well. You can add sliced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for color. Garlic bread also makes a great side. It helps soak up the creamy sauce. If you want a drink, try a fruity mocktail or coconut water. These options balance the dish's bold flavors. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the shrimp in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, peel and devein them if they aren’t already. Frozen shrimp work well and save time. They still offer great taste and texture in the dish. To make this recipe dairy-free, simply skip any dairy ingredients. Use coconut milk, which is already in the recipe. Ensure that your broth is also dairy-free. Most vegetable or chicken broths are safe. You can add extra herbs for more flavor if you like. This keeps the dish rich and creamy without dairy. This blog post covers the ingredients and steps for a delicious Jamaican Shrimp Pasta. You learned about the key ingredients and how to customize your dish. I shared tips for preparing perfect shrimp and avoiding common mistakes. You also discovered various options for dietary needs and how to properly store leftovers. In summary, cooking can be easy and fun. With these tips, your meals will shine. Enjoy creating your own Jamaican Shrimp Pasta!

Ingredients

Full Recipe Overview

This Jamaican Coconut Shrimp Pasta is a fun and tasty dish. It features shrimp, pasta, and coconut flavors. The jerk seasoning adds a unique kick. You can serve it with lime for extra zest. This dish is easy to make and perfect for any day.

List of Ingredients

– 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine

– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 1 tablespoon coconut oil

– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

– 1/2 cup coconut milk

– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

– 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning

– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)

– Salt and black pepper to taste

– Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

– Lime wedges, for serving

Optional Ingredients for Customization

– Add veggies like spinach or zucchini for more color.

– Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

– For more heat, add more chili flakes.

– Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for different flavors.

– Use lime juice instead of lime wedges for a tangy kick.

Feel free to mix and match these options to make the recipe your own!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt to the water for flavor. Cook the spaghetti or fettuccine as per the package. Aim for an al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta but save a cup of its water. Set the pasta aside.

While the pasta cooks, chop the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Make sure the shrimp is peeled and deveined. This way, everything is ready for quick cooking.

Cooking Techniques

Heat coconut oil in a large skillet on medium heat. Add the chopped onion first. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it softens. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir often to keep it from burning.

Next, add the shrimp into the skillet. Sprinkle jerk seasoning and chili flakes evenly over them. Cook for 2-3 minutes. You want the shrimp to turn pink and opaque. This shows they are fully cooked.

Now, pour in the coconut milk and broth. Mix it well to combine all the flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for another 3-4 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend nicely.

If the sauce gets too thick, use the reserved pasta water. Add it slowly until you reach your desired consistency.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

To get perfectly cooked shrimp, watch the color. They should turn from gray to pink. This change means they are ready. Avoid cooking them too long; otherwise, they can become tough.

Always ensure to season your shrimp well. The jerk seasoning adds a lot of flavor. You can adjust the chili flakes based on your spice preference.

Finally, toss the drained pasta into the skillet. Mix well to coat the pasta with the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and lime wedges. Enjoy this vibrant dish!

For the full recipe, refer to the section above.

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

To boost the taste of your Jamaican shrimp pasta, focus on fresh herbs. Use cilantro or parsley for a bright finish. Lime juice adds a zesty kick that wakes up the dish. Also, consider adding fresh ginger for a warm flavor. A splash of soy sauce can deepen the umami notes too.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcooking the shrimp. You want them tender, not rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. Another mistake is skipping the reserved pasta water. This starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta. Lastly, don’t forget to season your dish well. Salt and pepper are key!

How to Adjust Spice Levels

If you prefer a milder dish, cut back on jerk seasoning and chili flakes. You can also add more coconut milk for creaminess. For extra heat, try adding fresh chopped chili or more chili flakes. Just remember to taste as you go. Adjusting flavors while cooking ensures you get it just right.

For the complete guide, check out the Full Recipe.

Variations

Vegetarian or Vegan Options

To make this dish vegetarian or vegan, you can swap the shrimp. Try using chickpeas or tofu instead. Both options soak up flavors well and add protein. For the broth, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Replace the coconut milk with a plant-based cream for a vegan spin. You still get that creamy texture and rich taste.

Gluten-Free Substitutes

If you want a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands make great spaghetti or fettuccine alternatives. You can also use rice noodles for a different texture. Just remember to check the ingredient label to ensure they are truly gluten-free.

Regional Ingredient Swaps

Feel free to get creative with regional ingredients! Instead of jerk seasoning, you can use Cajun spices for a different flavor profile. If you can’t find coconut milk, try using almond milk or cashew cream. You can even add local vegetables like zucchini or corn for a fresh twist. Each swap gives a new taste to the dish.

For the full recipe, check out the Jamaican Coconut Shrimp Pasta.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

After you enjoy your Jamaican shrimp pasta, let it cool. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps your meal fresh and tasty.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to eat again, take the pasta out of the fridge. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. If using the stove, add a splash of broth or coconut milk. This helps restore the creamy sauce. Heat it gently until warm.

Freezing Tips

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. Put it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It can stay frozen for up to three months. When you want to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned earlier. Enjoy the flavors of Jamaica anytime!

FAQs

What can I serve with Jamaican Shrimp Pasta?

You can serve Jamaican shrimp pasta with a fresh side salad. A simple green salad pairs well. You can add sliced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for color. Garlic bread also makes a great side. It helps soak up the creamy sauce. If you want a drink, try a fruity mocktail or coconut water. These options balance the dish’s bold flavors.

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the shrimp in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, peel and devein them if they aren’t already. Frozen shrimp work well and save time. They still offer great taste and texture in the dish.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, simply skip any dairy ingredients. Use coconut milk, which is already in the recipe. Ensure that your broth is also dairy-free. Most vegetable or chicken broths are safe. You can add extra herbs for more flavor if you like. This keeps the dish rich and creamy without dairy.

This blog post covers the ingredients and steps for a delicious Jamaican Shrimp Pasta. You learned about the key ingredients and how to customize your dish. I shared tips for preparing perfect shrimp and avoiding common mistakes. You also discovered various options for dietary needs and how to properly store leftovers.

In summary, cooking can be easy and fun. With these tips, your meals will shine. Enjoy creating your own Jamaican Shrimp Pasta!

This Jamaican Coconut Shrimp Pasta is a fun and tasty dish. It features shrimp, pasta, and coconut flavors. The jerk seasoning adds a unique kick. You can serve it with lime for extra zest. This dish is easy to make and perfect for any day. - 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine - 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 1 tablespoon coconut oil - 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced - 1/2 cup coconut milk - 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth - 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning - 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste) - Salt and black pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish - Lime wedges, for serving - Add veggies like spinach or zucchini for more color. - Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. - For more heat, add more chili flakes. - Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for different flavors. - Use lime juice instead of lime wedges for a tangy kick. Feel free to mix and match these options to make the recipe your own! Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt to the water for flavor. Cook the spaghetti or fettuccine as per the package. Aim for an al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta but save a cup of its water. Set the pasta aside. While the pasta cooks, chop the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Make sure the shrimp is peeled and deveined. This way, everything is ready for quick cooking. Heat coconut oil in a large skillet on medium heat. Add the chopped onion first. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it softens. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir often to keep it from burning. Next, add the shrimp into the skillet. Sprinkle jerk seasoning and chili flakes evenly over them. Cook for 2-3 minutes. You want the shrimp to turn pink and opaque. This shows they are fully cooked. Now, pour in the coconut milk and broth. Mix it well to combine all the flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for another 3-4 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend nicely. If the sauce gets too thick, use the reserved pasta water. Add it slowly until you reach your desired consistency. To get perfectly cooked shrimp, watch the color. They should turn from gray to pink. This change means they are ready. Avoid cooking them too long; otherwise, they can become tough. Always ensure to season your shrimp well. The jerk seasoning adds a lot of flavor. You can adjust the chili flakes based on your spice preference. Finally, toss the drained pasta into the skillet. Mix well to coat the pasta with the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and lime wedges. Enjoy this vibrant dish! For the full recipe, refer to the section above. To boost the taste of your Jamaican shrimp pasta, focus on fresh herbs. Use cilantro or parsley for a bright finish. Lime juice adds a zesty kick that wakes up the dish. Also, consider adding fresh ginger for a warm flavor. A splash of soy sauce can deepen the umami notes too. One common mistake is overcooking the shrimp. You want them tender, not rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque. Another mistake is skipping the reserved pasta water. This starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta. Lastly, don’t forget to season your dish well. Salt and pepper are key! If you prefer a milder dish, cut back on jerk seasoning and chili flakes. You can also add more coconut milk for creaminess. For extra heat, try adding fresh chopped chili or more chili flakes. Just remember to taste as you go. Adjusting flavors while cooking ensures you get it just right. For the complete guide, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} To make this dish vegetarian or vegan, you can swap the shrimp. Try using chickpeas or tofu instead. Both options soak up flavors well and add protein. For the broth, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Replace the coconut milk with a plant-based cream for a vegan spin. You still get that creamy texture and rich taste. If you want a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands make great spaghetti or fettuccine alternatives. You can also use rice noodles for a different texture. Just remember to check the ingredient label to ensure they are truly gluten-free. Feel free to get creative with regional ingredients! Instead of jerk seasoning, you can use Cajun spices for a different flavor profile. If you can't find coconut milk, try using almond milk or cashew cream. You can even add local vegetables like zucchini or corn for a fresh twist. Each swap gives a new taste to the dish. For the full recipe, check out the Jamaican Coconut Shrimp Pasta. After you enjoy your Jamaican shrimp pasta, let it cool. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps your meal fresh and tasty. When you're ready to eat again, take the pasta out of the fridge. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. If using the stove, add a splash of broth or coconut milk. This helps restore the creamy sauce. Heat it gently until warm. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. Put it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It can stay frozen for up to three months. When you want to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned earlier. Enjoy the flavors of Jamaica anytime! You can serve Jamaican shrimp pasta with a fresh side salad. A simple green salad pairs well. You can add sliced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for color. Garlic bread also makes a great side. It helps soak up the creamy sauce. If you want a drink, try a fruity mocktail or coconut water. These options balance the dish's bold flavors. Yes, you can use frozen shrimp in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the shrimp in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, peel and devein them if they aren’t already. Frozen shrimp work well and save time. They still offer great taste and texture in the dish. To make this recipe dairy-free, simply skip any dairy ingredients. Use coconut milk, which is already in the recipe. Ensure that your broth is also dairy-free. Most vegetable or chicken broths are safe. You can add extra herbs for more flavor if you like. This keeps the dish rich and creamy without dairy. This blog post covers the ingredients and steps for a delicious Jamaican Shrimp Pasta. You learned about the key ingredients and how to customize your dish. I shared tips for preparing perfect shrimp and avoiding common mistakes. You also discovered various options for dietary needs and how to properly store leftovers. In summary, cooking can be easy and fun. With these tips, your meals will shine. Enjoy creating your own Jamaican Shrimp Pasta!

Jamaican Shrimp Pasta

Indulge in a tropical delight with this Jamaican Coconut Shrimp Pasta! This quick and easy recipe brings the tastes of the Caribbean right to your kitchen with succulent shrimp, creamy coconut milk, and flavorful jerk seasoning. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Click to explore the full recipe and get ready to savor every bite of this delicious pasta creation!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tablespoon coconut oil

1/2 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

1/2 cup coconut milk

1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

1 tablespoon jerk seasoning

1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)

Salt and black pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

Begin by cooking the spaghetti or fettuccine according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain it and set aside, making sure to reserve a cup of the starchy pasta water for later use.

    In a large, non-stick skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.

      Next, incorporate the minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper into the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bell pepper begins to soften.

        Introduce the shrimp to the skillet. Evenly sprinkle the jerk seasoning and chili flakes over the shrimp. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, indicating they are cooked through.

          Pour in the coconut milk and broth, stirring everything together to combine the flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for another 3-4 minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully.

            If the sauce becomes too thick during cooking, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

              Now, add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it thoroughly to ensure it is well coated with the coconut shrimp sauce. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences.

                Serve the dish immediately, garnishing with fresh cilantro or parsley, and providing lime wedges on the side for a burst of zesty flavor.

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

                    - Presentation Tips: For an appealing look, serve the pasta in a large bowl or on a platter, artfully twirling the pasta in the center and arranging the shrimp and sauce around it. Enhance with colorful lime slices for freshness.