Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these 18 mouth-watering Caribbean-inspired shrimp recipes! From skewers to stews, and from pasta dishes to tacos, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across the islands, exploring the bold flavors and vibrant spices that make Caribbean cuisine so unique.
Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like jerk seasoning or adventurous like coconut curry, our collection of recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings. And with ingredients like mango, pineapple, and plantains, you’ll be transported to a tropical paradise with every bite. So what are you waiting for? Dive into the flavors of the Caribbean with these 18 spicy shrimp recipes!
Jerk Spiced Caribbean Shrimp Skewers
A flavorful twist on traditional shrimp skewers, this recipe infuses the sweetness of Caribbean jerk seasoning with succulent shrimp and tender vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning and olive oil. Add shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread marinated shrimp, bell peppers, onion, and garlic onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill or broil skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Coconut Curry Caribbean Shrimp Stew
This aromatic stew combines the warm spices of the Caribbean with the richness of coconut milk and succulent shrimp, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in coconut milk, chicken broth, and jerk seasoning.
6. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat and cook for 10-12 minutes or until flavors meld.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Caribbean Shrimp and Pineapple Ceviche
Caribbean Shrimp and Pineapple Ceviche: A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, this dish combines succulent shrimp with the sweetness of pineapple and a hint of Caribbean flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, pineapple, lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the shrimp to “cook” in the lime juice.
3. Just before serving, stir in salt to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Grilled Caribbean Shrimp with Mango Salsa
Grilled Caribbean Shrimp with Mango Salsa Recipe
Summary:
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this mouthwatering recipe featuring succulent shrimp, grilled to perfection and served with a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– For the Mango Salsa:
+ 2 ripe mangos, diced
+ 1/4 cup red onion, diced
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
+ Juice of 1 lime
+ Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, jerk seasoning, and lime juice.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve grilled shrimp with Mango Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Caribbean Shrimp Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean in these spicy shrimp tacos, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a zesty jerk seasoning and wrapped in crispy taco shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced mango, red onion, cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, jerk seasoning, lime juice, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble the tacos by placing the grilled shrimp onto a warmed shell, followed by your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caribbean Shrimp and Rice Pilaf
This flavorful pilaf combines succulent shrimp with aromatic spices and tropical flavors, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With its vibrant colors and exciting blend of tastes, this dish is sure to transport your taste buds to the Caribbean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp Caribbean jerk seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Add rice, water, ginger, jerk seasoning, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is tender.
5. Fluff pilaf with a fork; garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 22-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Caribbean Shrimp Pasta
A flavorful fusion of Caribbean spices and garlic butter creates a mouth-watering pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) linguine pasta
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup (60ml) Caribbean jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup (60ml) grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in Caribbean jerk seasoning and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and shrimp mixture. Toss to coat evenly.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caribbean Shrimp and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines succulent shrimp with creamy avocado, tangy lime juice, and a hint of Caribbean spices. Perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon jerk seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, avocado, lime juice, olive oil, and jerk seasoning.
2. Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes chilling time)
Caribbean Shrimp Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers
This vibrant dish combines succulent shrimp, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic spices to create a flavorful Caribbean-inspired stir-fry. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch, this recipe is sure to tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Add shrimp; cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caribbean Shrimp and Sweet Potato Hash
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with this mouthwatering shrimp and sweet potato hash. A perfect blend of spices, succulent shrimp, and crispy sweet potatoes will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon jerk seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
4. Add shrimp to the skillet; cook until pink and fully cooked (about 2-3 minutes per side).
5. Stir in jerk seasoning. Serve warm with roasted sweet potatoes and garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Spicy Caribbean Shrimp Soup with Coconut Milk
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with this spicy and creamy shrimp soup, featuring coconut milk as its star ingredient.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (use gloves when handling)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, Scotch bonnet pepper, ginger, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Pour in coconut milk, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caribbean Shrimp and Black Bean Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with the bold flavors of the Caribbean! This recipe combines succulent shrimp, creamy black beans, and spicy peppers in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons Caribbean jerk seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add black beans, bell pepper, cilantro, jerk seasoning, and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle with cheese (about 1/4 cup), and top with shrimp and bean mixture. Fold tortilla in half to enclose filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tortilla is crispy and cheese is melted. Flip and cook an additional minute.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caribbean Shrimp with Grilled Plantains
Experience the sweet and savory fusion of Caribbean flavors with this mouthwatering dish featuring succulent shrimp, grilled plantains, and a hint of tropical spices. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe plantains, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon jerk seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together shrimp, olive oil, jerk seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Brush plantain slices with olive oil and season with salt. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. Serve shrimp and grilled plantains together, garnished with a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caribbean Shrimp and Corn Chowder
This hearty soup combines succulent shrimp with sweet corn and aromatic spices, evoking the warm flavors of the Caribbean.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in corn, chicken broth, coconut milk, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors meld.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caribbean Shrimp and Coconut Rice Bowl
Transport yourself to the islands with this flavorful and aromatic Caribbean-inspired dish. Succulent shrimp, toasted coconut, and creamy rice come together in a bowl that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat coconut oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in toasted coconut flakes and curry powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve cooked rice in a bowl, topped with shrimp mixture and garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caribbean Shrimp and Mango Salsa Lettuce Wraps
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with this refreshing twist on traditional wraps. Succulent shrimp, juicy mango, and crunchy lettuce come together for a delightful fusion of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves (Romaine or Iceberg)
– Optional: avocado slices, crumbled feta cheese, or toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil. Brush mixture on both sides of shrimp.
3. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
5. Assemble wraps by placing cooked shrimp, mango salsa, and lettuce leaves together. Add optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caribbean Shrimp with Lime and Cilantro Dressing
Escape to the Caribbean with this vibrant and flavorful shrimp dish, infused with the brightness of lime and the freshness of cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup Caribbean-style jerk seasoning (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, and ginger. Add shrimp; toss to coat.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and jerk seasoning (if using).
4. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caribbean Shrimp and Pineapple Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on classic fried rice, this Caribbean-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp with sweet pineapple, savory spices, and a hint of island flair. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 medium ripe pineapple, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
3. In same skillet, add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add pineapple; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked rice, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Return shrimp to skillet; stir-fry everything together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these mouth-watering Caribbean shrimp recipes! From skewers and stews to pasta dishes and salads, there’s something for every taste bud. Try Jerk Spiced Caribbean Shrimp Skewers for a flavorful twist on traditional kebabs or Coconut Curry Caribbean Shrimp Stew for a comforting, creamy meal. Or, add some heat with Spicy Caribbean Shrimp Tacos or Soup with Coconut Milk. With 18 delicious and easy-to-make recipes, you’ll be island-hopping your way to culinary success in no time!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
