Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta – A Bold, Creamy Caribbean-Inspired Dinner
Hey there! Are you ready to take your taste buds on a flavorful journey? Jamaican Rasta Pasta with Spicy Shrimp is one of my all-time favorites! Combining vibrant colors, bold spices, and a taste of the Caribbean, this dish always puts me in a good mood. Plus, it’s relatively easy to whip up, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive gathering with friends. Let’s get cooking!
Nutritional Benefits
This Rasta Pasta isn’t just a treat for your palate; it’s also packed with important nutrients! The colorful bell peppers provide a great source of vitamin C, which helps in boosting your immune system. Meanwhile, the shrimp are lean protein that’s low in calories and high in essential minerals like iodine. Plus, the whole wheat pasta (if you choose it!) adds fiber to your meal, which helps with digestion. So, not only will you enjoy every bite, but you’ll also be doing something good for your body!
Adaptable Variations
If you’re looking to tailor this recipe to your tastes or dietary needs, I’m here to help! Here are a few adaptations you can consider:
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap the shrimp for sautéed tofu or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Heat Level: Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less pepper flakes—or even switching to a milder sauce if needed!
Flavorful Jamaican Rasta Pasta with Spicy Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust based on your spice preference)
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and garlic, sautéing until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the shrimp. Sprinkle the ground allspice, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes over the shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until shrimp is pink and cooked through.
- Pour in the coconut milk and soy sauce, stirring to combine everything. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
- Gently fold in the cooked pasta. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley for an extra burst of flavor!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- Storage: If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just add a splash of the coconut milk to ensure the pasta doesn’t dry out.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with some garlic bread or a simple salad to make it a full meal that everyone will love.
- Customization: Don’t hesitate to experiment with the veggie mix! Zucchini or spinach are fantastic additions!

Join the Flavor Journey!
I can’t wait to hear how your Rasta Pasta with Spicy Shrimp turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and share it on Pinterest or your favorite social media. Sharing your culinary adventures lifts everyone’s spirits, including mine! Enjoy this taste of Jamaica, and until next time, happy cooking!