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Jerk Shrimp Fettuccine

Jerk Shrimp Fettuccine: A Flavorful Fusion of Spices and Cream

Jerk Shrimp Fettuccine is a deliciously bold dish that combines the spicy, aromatic flavors of jerk seasoning with creamy fettuccine pasta. This recipe brings together succulent shrimp, jerk spices, and a rich, creamy sauce to create a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. The balance of heat and creaminess makes this dish a unique and unforgettable experience. Let’s get cooking!

Table of Contents

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Fettuccine

  • 12 oz fettuccine pasta
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1/2 lime
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

  1. Season the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with the jerk seasoning and 1 tablespoon of olive oil until well coated. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Fettuccine

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet used for the shrimp, add the butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
  2. Add Seasonings: Stir in the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom.
  3. Add Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the sauce begins to thicken.
  4. Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

  1. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
  2. Add Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently mix to combine. Squeeze lime juice over the top for a burst of freshness.
  3. Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Cook’s Notes and Tips

  • Jerk Seasoning: You can use store-bought jerk seasoning, or make your own using a blend of allspice, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • Adjust the Heat: The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a milder dish, or add more jerk seasoning for extra heat.
  • Cooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly—be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough. They should be pink and just opaque when done.

Variations

  • Chicken Jerk Fettuccine: Substitute the shrimp with sliced chicken breast for a delicious variation. Cook the chicken until browned and fully cooked through before adding it to the pasta.
  • Vegetarian Option: Replace the shrimp with sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a vegetarian version of this dish.
  • Coconut Cream: Substitute half of the heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical twist that pairs well with the jerk flavors.

Serving Suggestions

  • Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Green Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
  • Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside grilled vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

This dish is best served fresh, as the creamy sauce may thicken when stored. However, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently before adding the cooked pasta and shrimp.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta you prefer, such as linguine, spaghetti, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Is Jerk Seasoning Spicy?

Jerk seasoning has a blend of spices, including cayenne and allspice, which give it a distinct spicy and aromatic flavor. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less of the spicy elements, such as cayenne pepper.

Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with olive oil, the heavy cream with coconut milk or cream, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The dish will still be creamy and delicious, with a slightly different flavor profile.

Jerk Shrimp Fettuccine is a delightful fusion of bold Caribbean flavors and creamy Italian pasta. The combination of jerk-spiced shrimp, rich sauce, and tender fettuccine creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish will impress everyone at the table. Gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this flavorful journey!

Happy Cooking!