Introduction
Dive into a luxurious culinary experience with this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Deluxe. Perfectly cooked shrimp meets a symphony of Caribbean flavors in a rich and velvety sauce, offering a tropical twist to your favorite pasta dish. Elevate your dining with these vibrant and spicy notes, all nestled within a comforting and creamy embrace.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 300 grams of jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 250 grams of penne pasta
– 200 ml of coconut milk
– 150 ml of heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch Bonnet pepper, finely chopped
– 100 grams of bell peppers, sliced
– 50 grams of green onions, chopped
– 1 teaspoon of allspice
– 1 teaspoon of thyme
– 1 tablespoon of lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 30 grams of grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
To start, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and Scotch Bonnet pepper, sautéing until fragrant. Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with allspice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the bell peppers and green onions. Sauté until softened. Pour in the coconut milk and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to thicken slightly. Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Stir in the lime juice and Parmesan cheese until well incorporated.
Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this delightful creamy Jamaican shrimp pasta for a comforting, flavorful meal that captures the spirit of the Caribbean.
**Detailed Directions and Instructions**
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta, ensuring to reserve a bit of the pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and the finely chopped Scotch Bonnet pepper. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the pepper releases its spicy aroma.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the 300 grams of peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp to the skillet. Season with 1 teaspoon of allspice, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers (100 grams) and chopped green onions (50 grams). Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and vibrant, absorbing the spices.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Pour in 200 ml of coconut milk and 150 ml of heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to combine. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to thicken for about 5 minutes, enriching the sauce with the flavors of the herbs and spices.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta and shrimp are well-coated in the creamy sauce. Add 1 tablespoon of lime juice and 30 grams of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring to incorporate.
Step 7: Final Adjustments
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. The flavors should be balanced, with a hint of spice from the Scotch Bonnet and creaminess from the coconut milk and heavy cream.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is well combined and heated through, plate the pasta. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant finish and serve immediately for a delightful dining experience.
**Notes**
Prep Time
The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, allowing you to enjoy this dish in no time.
Cook Time
The total cook time is around 20 minutes. This quick cooking process makes it an excellent option for a weeknight dinner.
Serving Size
This recipe yields 4 servings, perfect for a family meal or gatherings with friends.
Pasta Tips
Ensure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the warm sauce.
Adjusting Spice Levels
If you prefer a milder flavor, consider reducing the amount of Scotch Bonnet pepper or removing the seeds before chopping.
Cheese Alternatives
For a different flavor profile, feel free to substitute with other cheeses like feta or mozzarella.
Garnishing Options
Beyond parsley, you can also use cilantro or basil for a distinct flavor and added color to the dish.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a method that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over relatively high heat. In this recipe, garlic and Scotch Bonnet pepper are sautéed to develop their flavors before adding the shrimp.
Cooking Pasta
Cooking pasta involves boiling it in salted water until it reaches an al dente texture, meaning it is firm to the bite. This technique ensures the pasta holds up well when tossed with the creamy sauce.
Simmering
Simmering is a gentle cooking method that involves heating a liquid just below boiling point. In this dish, the coconut milk and heavy cream are brought to a simmer to thicken, melding the flavors together.
Coating
Coating is the technique of mixing cooked ingredients with a sauce to ensure every piece is evenly covered. Here, the pasta and shrimp are tossed in the creamy sauce for a rich flavor in every bite.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Is there a substitute for coconut milk?
You can substitute coconut milk with heavy cream or milk, but this will change the flavor profile of the dish.
How spicy is the dish with Scotch Bonnet pepper?
The Scotch Bonnet pepper provides significant heat. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount or omit it altogether.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Reheat and cook the pasta just before serving for best results.
What can I serve with Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Deluxe?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Indulging in Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta Deluxe not only tantalizes your taste buds with rich Caribbean flavors but also provides a comforting and hearty meal. The combination of succulent shrimp, creamy coconut milk, and the kick of Scotch Bonnet pepper creates an unforgettable dining experience. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful weeknight dinner, this dish brings the warmth of the islands to your table.
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