Go Back
To truly appreciate Jamaican Shrimp Pasta, it's essential to understand the culinary traditions of Jamaica, a country known for its vibrant flavors, bold spices, and fresh ingredients. Jamaican cuisine is a melting pot of influences, primarily from the indigenous Taino people, African slaves, and colonial settlers, resulting in a rich tapestry of flavors that reflect the island’s diverse history.

Jamaican Shrimp Pasta: A Creamy Delight

Indulge in the flavors of the Caribbean with this Jamaican Shrimp Pasta! This creamy dish combines tender shrimp, seasoned just right, with fettuccine or linguine tossed in a luscious coconut milk and heavy cream sauce. Enhanced with fresh thyme, allspice, and a kick of cayenne, it's a tropical delight you won't want to miss. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and ready in just 30 minutes! Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime for that extra zing.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 oz. fettuccine or linguine pasta

1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

1 teaspoon allspice

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1 cup coconut milk

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Chopped green onions and fresh cilantro for garnish

Lime wedges for serving

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

    Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, thyme, allspice, and cayenne pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

      Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

        Make It Creamy: Stir in the coconut milk and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, and stir until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.

          Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, to taste.

            Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4