Ingredients
For the Jerk Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade – recipe below)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro for garnish
For the Caribbean Quinoa:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 3/4 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped mango
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
For the Caribbean Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon jerk seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Homemade Jerk Seasoning (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
- Make the Jerk Seasoning (if using): In a small bowl, combine all jerk seasoning ingredients and mix well.
- Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh sieve. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Toss shrimp with olive oil and 2 tablespoons of jerk seasoning. Allow to marinate at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Prep the Vegetables: While the quinoa cooks, chop the bell peppers, onion, mango, and cilantro.
- Make the Caribbean Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, jerk seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
- Assemble the Quinoa: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, bell peppers, mango, red onion, and cilantro. Pour in the Caribbean vinaigrette and toss to coat.
- Serve: Divide the Caribbean quinoa among bowls. Top with the cooked jerk shrimp and garnish with chopped cilantro.
Tips & Variations:
- Spiciness: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the jerk seasoning to control the heat level.
- Grill It: For a summery twist, grill the shrimp on skewers instead of cooking in a skillet.
- Add-ins: Toss in other Caribbean-inspired ingredients like black beans, pineapple chunks, or grilled corn.
- Other Proteins: This recipe works well with jerk chicken or tofu, too!
Enjoy!
