Shrimp Rasta Pasta Recipe – Freshly Ingredients

Ah, Shrimp Rasta Pasta! This dish hits all the right notes. One evening, craving something different, I whipped this up and let me tell you—it was an instant favorite at the dinner table! The creamy texture, rich flavors, and vibrant colors make it not just a meal but an experience. 

Even better, it’s easy to prepare. It takes just the right blend of spices and ingredients that can transform a simple night into a festive occasion. Let me take you through the journey of making this delightful dish, share some tips, and uncover the reasons why you’ll love it.

What is Shrimp Rasta Pasta?

Shrimp Rasta Pasta is a Caribbean-inspired dish that marries succulent shrimp with creamy pasta. It’s like a dance of flavors and textures, featuring the zing of Jamaican jerk seasoning and the smoothness of a cream sauce. 

Originating from Jamaica, this dish showcases the island's vibrant flavors and culinary culture. The bright colors of the peppers and the juicy shrimp create a dish that not only tastes amazing but looks beautiful on the plate as well.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

If flavor were a painting, this dish would be a masterpiece! The first bite is a harmonious blend of spice, creaminess, and a hint of sweetness brought by the coconut milk. The jerk seasoning adds a smoky, spicy kick. 

Creamy consistency comes from the heavy cream, which balances well with the brightness of lime juice. Fresh veggies like bell peppers add crunch and sweetness, creating a multidimensional taste experience. The slight heat from the crushed red pepper flakes is like the cherry on top.

Why You'll Love This?

You know that feeling when comfort food meets exotic flavors? That’s exactly it!

1. Quick and Easy: This meal comes together swiftly—ideal for busy weeknights.
2. Flavorful Explosion: The blend of spices will keep your taste buds dancing.
3. Versatile: You can switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
4. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for any gathering. Your friends and family will rave about it!
5. Nutrient-Rich: Shrimp are packed with protein, and the veggies add essential vitamins.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to whip up this culinary masterpiece:

• 1 pound raw extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined (I used the 16-20 count size)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 ½ tablespoons Walkerwood Mild Jamaican Jerk seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons premium extra virgin olive oil
• 16 ounces penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon high-quality extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 green onion stalks, chopped
• 2 cups heavy cream
• ½ cup coconut milk
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 6 ounces freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon adobo all-purpose seasoning
• ⅛ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• ½ tablespoon Walkerwood Mild Jamaican Jerk seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Fresh parsley for optional garnish

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cool water. Pat them dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine lime juice, jerk seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss the shrimp in this mixture. Set aside for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil water in a large pot. Once boiling, add salt along with the penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for about 4-5 minutes until they are tender. Follow up with the minced garlic and chopped green onions, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Push the veggies to the side of the skillet. Add the marinated shrimp, cooking it for 3-4 minutes until pink and cooked through.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Once the shrimp is done, pour in the heavy cream, coconut milk, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, adobo seasoning, black pepper, additional jerk seasoning, thyme, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta well with the sauce. Allow it all to simmer on low heat for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Once everything is well incorporated and heated through, serve your shrimp rasta pasta immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips & Tricks

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. Remove them from the heat just as they turn pink.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.
• Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to lessen or increase the amount of jerk seasoning based on your personal taste.
• Try Different Pasta: While penne works great, you could use fettuccine or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Make Ahead: This dish can sit in the refrigerator for a day or two, making it perfect for meal prep!

How Can You Store This Shrimp Rasta Pasta?

Storing your leftover shrimp rasta pasta is easy! Here’s how:

• In the Refrigerator: Transfer it to an airtight container for storage. It should last for about 3-4 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
• Freezing: If you want to save it for longer, consider freezing it. To do this, let the pasta cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months; thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Alternative Ingredients

If you're missing some of the ingredients, here are a few alternatives you can consider:

• Shrimp: If you don’t have shrimp on hand, chicken breast or tofu can be used as viable substitutes. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Cream: In place of heavy cream, Greek yogurt can give a creamy texture with fewer calories. You might want to add it at the end to prevent curdling.
• Cheese: If Parmesan cheese isn’t available, consider Pecorino Romano or Nutritional Yeast for a dairy-free option that still packs flavor.

Conclusion

Creating Shrimp Rasta Pasta is more than just a cooking task; it’s an adventure in flavor and creativity. The combination of spices, creamy sauce, and delicious shrimp yields a dish that can impress at any dinner. With easy preparation and the ability to store and reheat leftovers, this recipe is a game-changer for any busy home cook. 

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply indulging at home, this dish invites you to savor each bite. So why not gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this culinary journey? Happy cooking!

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