Shrimp Rasta Pasta

Introduction

Shrimp Rasta Pasta is a vibrant, flavorful dish inspired by Caribbean cuisine. This creamy pasta combines succulent shrimp, colorful bell peppers, and a rich, spicy coconut cream sauce, infused with island-inspired seasonings. It’s visually stunning with red, yellow, and green peppers resembling the Rastafarian colors, and the creamy sauce ties everything together beautifully. Perfect for seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts, this dish is both comforting and exciting, offering a tropical twist on classic creamy pasta.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. The shrimp stay tender and juicy, while the creamy, spicy sauce coats every piece of pasta perfectly. The combination of bell peppers, herbs, and spices gives it a lively, aromatic flavor profile. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve to guests. Every bite feels indulgent yet balanced with the freshness of peppers and lightness of shrimp.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it takes simple ingredients—shrimp, pasta, and peppers—and transforms them into a restaurant-quality Caribbean-inspired meal. The creamy, spicy sauce paired with perfectly cooked shrimp makes it addictive. Its colorful presentation makes it ideal for entertaining or elevating a regular dinner night. If you love bold flavors and creamy, comforting dishes, Shrimp Rasta Pasta is impossible to resist.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~550 kcal per serving
• Cuisine: Caribbean / Fusion
• Course: Main Course

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne works best)
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup coconut cream (or heavy cream)
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon jerk seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; sauté shrimp until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers until slightly tender.
5. Add coconut cream, broth, and jerk seasoning. Simmer 5 minutes.
6. Add cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet; toss to coat with sauce.
7. Stir in Parmesan if desired and garnish with parsley or cilantro before serving.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook Pasta

• Boil water with a pinch of salt, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Shrimp

• Pat shrimp dry, season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and thyme.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté shrimp 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove from skillet.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

• In the same skillet, add diced onions and garlic; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Add sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers. Sauté until slightly tender but still crisp (3-4 minutes).

Step 4: Make the Sauce

• Add coconut cream, broth, and jerk seasoning. Stir and let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to blend.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

• Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
• Return shrimp to the skillet and mix gently.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

• Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (optional) and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve hot.

How to Serve

• Serve hot, straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation.
• Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Garnish with extra herbs and a wedge of lime for freshness.

Additional Recipe Tips

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.

• Adjust jerk seasoning according to your spice preference.
• Avoid overcooking shrimp—they cook very quickly and become rubbery if overdone.
• Coconut cream gives a rich, slightly sweet flavor, but heavy cream can be used as a substitute.

Variations

• Chicken Rasta Pasta: Replace shrimp with grilled chicken slices.
• Vegetarian Rasta Pasta: Substitute shrimp with tofu or extra vegetables.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or Scotch bonnet pepper for extra heat.
• Cheesy Rasta Pasta: Add mozzarella or cheddar for an indulgent twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Can freeze pasta and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Reheat gently over low heat; shrimp is best cooked fresh rather than frozen.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Tongs for mixing shrimp and pasta
• Knife and chopping board

FAQ

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely before cooking to avoid excess water in the sauce.

Q2: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta.

Q3: Can I use regular cream instead of coconut cream?
Yes, it will be creamier and less tropical, but still delicious.

Q4: How spicy is this dish?
It depends on the amount of jerk seasoning used. Start small and adjust to taste.

Q5: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but cook shrimp just before serving to maintain tenderness.

Conclusion

Shrimp Rasta Pasta is a bold, flavorful, and visually stunning dish that brings a taste of the Caribbean to your table. With tender shrimp, creamy coconut sauce, and vibrant bell peppers, this recipe is both comforting and exotic. Easy enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for special occasions, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves creamy, spicy, and colorful pasta dishes.