This creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta is a colorful dish that brings the taste of the islands to your plate! With tender shrimp, bright bell peppers, and a rich sauce, it’s sure to please.
Just imagine twirling that creamy pasta around your fork—you won’t be able to resist! I love adding extra veggies for a pop of color and flavor. It’s like a party in a bowl! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rigatoni or penne pasta works best for holding the creamy sauce. If you don’t have these, any pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle would be fun alternatives!
Shrimp: Fresh large shrimp is ideal, but frozen shrimp works too—just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You could also swap shrimp for chicken if you prefer!
Jamaican Jerk Seasoning: This adds a unique flavor. If you can’t find it, mix paprika, cayenne, and other spices like allspice and thyme to create your version. This can also be adjusted for spice levels!
Cream: Heavy cream creates a rich sauce, but you can use coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just be aware that it will change the flavor slightly, giving it a tropical twist!
Cilantro or Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten up the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley works perfectly. You can also use green onions for a different flavor.
How Do I Get the Shrimp Just Right?
Cooking shrimp can be a little tricky, but it’s simple! The aim is to keep them juicy and tender. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet well before adding shrimp; this ensures a nice sear.
- Cook shrimp only until pink, about 2 minutes per side. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on them!
- Remember to remove them from heat while they’re still slightly opaque, as they will continue cooking in the residual heat.
Following these tips will give you perfect shrimp every time!
Do I Really Need to Use Heavy Cream?
While heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy, you don’t have to use it if you’re looking for something lighter or dairy-free. Here are your options:
- Use half-and-half if you want a lighter creaminess.
- Substitute with coconut milk for a unique flavor if you prefer a dairy-free version.
- For a healthier choice, try blending silken tofu until smooth and mixing that in—it adds creaminess without the heaviness!
Each option will affect the sauce’s richness, so consider your preference as you go!
Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Jamaican jerk seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tbsp butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish—15 minutes for prepping the ingredients and cooking the pasta, and another 15 minutes for cooking the shrimp and making the sauce. It’s a quick and delightful dish that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. It’s important to keep it slightly undercooked since it will continue cooking in the sauce later!
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with Jamaican jerk seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated with the spices.
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. Don’t worry if they look slightly undercooked; they’ll finish cooking later!
4. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Then, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. This is where the lovely flavors start to build!
5. Add the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the diced bell peppers and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook these colorful veggies for about 4-5 minutes, until they soften slightly. The vibrant colors will make this dish even more appetizing!
6. Make the Sauce:
Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring everything to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will create a rich and creamy sauce.
7. Mix in the Cheese:
Now, add the shredded cheese and stir until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth. You’ll love how creamy it gets!
8. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked shrimp and the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta and shrimp in the creamy sauce, making sure everything is well mixed and heated through.
9. Add Fresh Herbs:
Stir in the chopped cilantro or parsley for freshness. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This little step will really elevate the flavors!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Turn off the heat and serve your Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta immediately. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy every delicious bite of this vibrant dish!
Happy cooking! Enjoy your flavorful journey with this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to leave them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water in a sealed bag for a quicker option.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you want to add more heat, consider increasing the cayenne pepper or adding sliced fresh chili peppers to the vegetables. You could also use a spicier jerk seasoning while seasoning the shrimp for an extra kick!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut milk; it will give the sauce a slightly different flavor but will remain creamy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce if needed.
