Tangy Caribbean Jerk Shrimp with Pineapple Salsa
Spiced jerk-seasoned shrimp paired with a fresh pineapple salsa, perfect for a vibrant Caribbean-inspired seafood dish. This caribbean-inspired seafood ready in about 26 minutes blends large shrimp, peeled and deveined, jerk seasoning, lime juice into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 250 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 small (optional) scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, toss 1 lb large peeled and deveined shrimp with 2 tbsp jerk seasoning, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until shrimp are evenly coated. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
- Step 2: While shrimp marinates, combine 1 cup diced fresh pineapple, 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup finely diced red onion, 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, and 1 small minced scotch bonnet pepper (if using) in a separate bowl. Stir gently to make the pineapple salsa.
- Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, with a slight char.
- Step 4: Serve the jerk shrimp immediately with a generous scoop of pineapple salsa on top or on the side for a bright, tangy complement.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Tangy Caribbean Jerk Shrimp with Pineapple Salsa take to make?
Total time is about 26 minutes (20 min prep + 6 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Tangy Caribbean Jerk Shrimp with Pineapple Salsa?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Tangy Caribbean Jerk Shrimp with Pineapple Salsa?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Tangy Caribbean Jerk Shrimp with Pineapple Salsa for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Tangy Caribbean Jerk Shrimp with Pineapple Salsa?
Caribbean seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
