Jamaican Shrimp Pasta with Coconut Lime Sauce

Discover a flavorful twist with Jamaican Shrimp Pasta with Coconut Lime Sauce, a creamy, zesty, and perfect tropical dinner that combines fresh shrimp, aromatic spices, and a luscious coconut lime sauce, all tossed with tender pasta for an unforgettable meal that feels like a mini-vacation on your plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Vibrant Flavors: The combination of coconut milk, lime, and Jamaican spices creates a refreshing and bold taste that excites your palate.
• Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner plans.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with protein-rich shrimp and wholesome ingredients, it’s both satisfying and nourishing.
• Tropical Twist: The coconut lime sauce introduces a unique, island-inspired flair you won’t find in your typical pasta dishes.
• Adaptable & Customizable: Easy to adjust according to your spice preference or dietary needs, this dish invites creativity.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential, each bringing a layer of flavor, texture, or beautiful color to your Jamaican Shrimp Pasta with Coconut Lime Sauce. Using fresh and quality produce here really makes all the difference.

• Shrimp: Fresh or thawed medium-sized shrimp add tender protein and a mild seafood sweetness.
• Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine works best for this creamy sauce to cling perfectly.
• Coconut Milk: Provides the creamy base with a slightly sweet and tropical taste.
• Lime Juice and Zest: Adds acidity and bright, citrus notes to balance the creaminess.
• Garlic & Onion: Build the savory foundation with aromatic depth.
• Jamaican Jerk Seasoning: Brings that signature spicy, smoky island flavor to the shrimp.
• Red Bell Pepper: Adds sweet crunch and vibrant red color.
• Fresh Cilantro or Parsley: For a fresh herbaceous finish and garnish.
• Olive Oil: Used to sauté and infuse the dish with mild richness.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to perfect the taste.

Variations for Jamaican Shrimp Pasta with Coconut Lime Sauce

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so don’t hesitate to try different spins based on what you have on hand, your dietary preferences, or your craving for spice level. Customizing is part of the fun!

• Vegetarian Twist: Swap shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based version full of texture.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Add extra Jamaican jerk seasoning or diced scotch bonnet peppers for a hotter dish.
• Different Pasta Shapes: Penne or rigatoni works great if you prefer a chunkier pasta texture.
• Extra Veggies: Incorporate zucchini, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to boost color and nutrition.
• Dairy-Free Options: The recipe is naturally dairy-free, but you can use coconut yogurt or a squeeze of lime if you want to lighten the sauce.

How to Make Jamaican Shrimp Pasta with Coconut Lime Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your chosen pasta (fettuccine or linguine recommended) according to the package instructions until al dente, reserving a cup of pasta water before draining to use in the sauce.

Step 2: Season and Sauté Shrimp

While pasta cooks, toss the shrimp with Jamaican jerk seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Aromatics and Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then sauté diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped red bell pepper until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Coconut Lime Sauce

Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Add lime zest and juice, then season lightly with salt and pepper. Use some reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if it feels too thick.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet, tossing everything to coat evenly in the coconut lime sauce. Warm through for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley over the top before serving for a bright, fresh finish.

Pro Tips for Making Jamaican Shrimp Pasta with Coconut Lime Sauce

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed shrimp ensures the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook until just pink, as shrimp continue to cook in the sauce and pasta, preventing rubbery texture.
• Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water helps to thin the sauce naturally and helps it cling to the pasta.
• Adjust Lime Juice Gradually: Add lime juice bit by bit to balance the acidity with creaminess without overpowering the dish.
• Customize Spice Level: With jerk seasoning, start light and add more as you go—jerk blends vary in heat intensity.

How to Serve Jamaican Shrimp Pasta with Coconut Lime Sauce

Garnishes

Finish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley to add fresh herbaceous notes, and if you like a little heat, a squeeze of extra lime or sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes gives just the right kick.

Side Dishes

Serve with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even sweet plantains for complementary textures and a full tropical experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, plate the pasta in shallow bowls, garnish with lime wedges for extra zest, and include a small bowl of extra jerk seasoning or chili oil on the side for guests who want to customize their heat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Jamaican Shrimp Pasta with Coconut Lime Sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

While shrimp and pasta freeze okay, the sauce’s texture may change; if freezing, separate shrimp and pasta from sauce, freeze independently, and combine fresh after thawing for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk or water to restore creaminess and avoid drying out the shrimp or pasta.

FAQs

Can I use other seafood instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! Scallops, chunks of firm fish, or even crab meat make excellent alternatives that pair wonderfully with the coconut lime sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To enjoy a gluten-free version, simply swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta varieties like rice or lentil-based noodles.

How spicy is the Jamaican jerk seasoning?

The heat level can vary depending on the brand, but generally, it offers a moderate kick balanced with smoky and savory notes; adjust the quantity to suit your spice tolerance.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Replace shrimp with mushrooms or tofu and ensure your jerk seasoning does not contain animal products for a delicious vegan-friendly meal.

What’s the best way to zest and juice limes?

Use a microplane grater for zesting to capture the bright oils and a handheld citrus juicer to squeeze fresh lime juice without seeds, maximizing flavor and ease.

Final Thoughts

Give this Jamaican Shrimp Pasta with Coconut Lime Sauce a try and treat yourself to a flavorful, tropical-inspired dinner that’s both comforting and exciting. With a balance of creamy coconut, tangy lime, and spicy jerk seasoning, it’s a dish to savor and share with friends and family. You’ll soon find it going on your regular dinner rotation!

Related Posts

• Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
• Cajun Sausage Pasta
• Mujadara Lentils and Rice

Print