This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta is a fun and colorful dish. With juicy shrimp, creamy sauce, and bright bell peppers, it looks as good as it tastes!
Who wouldn’t love pasta that sings with flavors? I enjoy making it for friends because it’s so easy and always a hit. Plus, it feels like a little trip to the islands right at home! 🌴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using rigatoni for its chunky texture, but penne works well too! If you’re gluten-free, try chickpea or brown rice pasta for a tasty twist.
Shrimp: I prefer large shrimp for their juicy texture. If shrimp isn’t available, you can use chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Jerk Seasoning: The jerk seasoning gives this dish its unique flavor. If you can’t find it, a mix of cayenne, thyme, and allspice can work as a substitute. Just adjust to your taste.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. The flavor will still be delightful!
Peppers: Red and yellow peppers are vibrant, but feel free to use green peppers or even add some diced tomatoes for a different taste.
How Do I Cook the Shrimp Just Right?
Cooking shrimp properly is key to a great dish! Here’s how to ensure they’re perfectly tender:
- Make sure to pre-season the shrimp with jerk seasoning for maximum flavor.
- Heat oil and butter until hot but not smoking. This is important to give the shrimp a nice sear.
- Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque but avoid overcooking, as they can get rubbery.
- Once cooked, remove shrimp immediately to stop the cooking process and keep them juicy.
These steps will help you create delicious and succulent shrimp for your creamy pasta! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
Shrimp and Seasoning:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp Jamaican jerk seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Vegetables:
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach or scallions
Spinach and Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep and around 20 minutes to cook everything. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough to impress guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with the Jamaican jerk seasoning, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure they are well-coated with the spices to distribute the flavor!
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 2 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This is the base of your flavor!
5. Add the Peppers:
Next, toss in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become slightly tender but retain their vibrant colors.
6. Make the Cream Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Stir everything together, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for a minute.
7. Incorporate the Cheese:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet, stirring until it melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and cayenne if you like a bit of heat!
8. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet, along with the chopped spinach or scallions. Toss everything together until the pasta and shrimp are well coated in that dreamy sauce. Warm for an additional 1-2 minutes.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. Serve immediately, and enjoy this colorful and flavorful Jamaican-inspired shrimp pasta dish with your loved ones!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before seasoning and cooking. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the shrimp with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even tofu for protein. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is tender and flavorful!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the pasta seems dry.
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Definitely! While rigatoni or penne works great, you can use any pasta you have on hand, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
