Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey of flavors with this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta! Imagine a plate of perfectly cooked fettuccine, lovingly enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce, with succulent shrimp dancing amidst fragrant spices. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that brings the vibrant taste of Jamaica right to your kitchen. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special gathering, this recipe will surely be a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain and set it aside, watching the steam waft up with that delightful pasta aroma.
- In a large skillet, combine olive oil and butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt and blend, creating a luscious foundation for your sauce.
- Add the minced garlic, letting it sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting scent.
- Stir in the shrimp along with thyme, allspice, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if you prefer a bit of heat). Cook the shrimp until they turn a beautiful pink color and are cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly for about 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed to suit your palate.
- Now, add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing everything together so the pasta is beautifully coated in that creamy, flavorful sauce.
- Serve hot, garnishing with freshly chopped green onions and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy each bite!
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the shrimp for 15 minutes in lime juice and a pinch of salt before cooking. If you’re looking to add vegetables, spinach or bell peppers can be sautéed along with the garlic for a pop of color and nutrition. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of sautéing is key to this recipe! Make sure your skillet is heated adequately before adding the garlic and shrimp so that they cook evenly and develop that lovely, golden brown color. Simmering the heavy cream and broth together allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a sauce that clings to your pasta just right.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine adds a wonderful texture, you can easily substitute with penne or linguine.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Definitely! You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat cream option, and use less butter or oil for sautéing.
What other proteins can I use?
If shrimp isn’t your favorite, chicken or scallops are great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein used.
Conclusion
This Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that’s both comforting and exotic. Each bite transports you to sun-soaked beaches, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion treat. Don’t forget to share it with family and friends, and enjoy the smiles that come with every delicious forkful!