AshlyGrenada’s national dish, Oil Down, is famous for its rich, spice-infused coconut milk gravy. Inspired by those bold Caribbean flavors, this creamy coconut turmeric pasta transforms that comforting gravy into a luscious sauce. With sautéed shrimp, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs, this dish is packed with warmth, depth, and island vibes!
The turmeric adds a beautiful golden hue, while coconut milk creates a silky-smooth sauce. The addition of fresh spinach gives it a boost of greens, making this dish both nourishing and flavorful!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta of choice (linguine, fettuccine, or penne)
- 1 lb shrimp (or chicken or your preferred protein)
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 3-4 shado beni (culantro) leaves, chopped
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1-2 tbsp coconut cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ tsp pepper sauce (optional, for a little heat)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed)
Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics
Heat ½ tbsp avocado oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3️⃣ Make the Sauce
In a bowl, pour in coconut milk, and season with turmeric, salt, black pepper, and pepper sauce (if using), ginger. Once combined, add coconut cream, thyme, and shado beni to pan and let simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4️⃣ Add the Spinach
Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt into the sauce.
5️⃣ Cooking the Shrimp*
Add pre-seasoned shrimp to the sauce. Cook in the sauce for 5-10 minutes or until pink, opaque, and thoroughly cooked.
6️⃣ Combine Pasta & Finish
Add the cooked pasta, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Toss gently to combine.
7️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
Plate up and garnish with extra shado beni or thyme. Serve hot and enjoy this Caribbean-inspired pasta!
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
✅ Inspired by Grenadian flavors 🇬🇩
✅ Rich, creamy, and full of warming spices
✅ Packed with protein and leafy greens
✅ Dairy-free & full of nourishing ingredients
✅ Easy to customize with your favorite protein
This Grenada-inspired coconut turmeric pasta is the perfect balance of comforting and vibrant. Would you try it with shrimp, chicken, or keep it plant-based? Let me know in the comments!
Yours truly,
*Disclaimer:
When preparing and consuming shrimp, it is essential to cook them thoroughly to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Shrimp should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) or until they appear opaque and firm. Undercooked or raw shrimp may contain harmful bacteria or parasites that can cause illness.
Always handle raw shrimp with care by washing hands, utensils, and surfaces that come into contact with them. If you have seafood allergies or dietary restrictions, consult a medical professional before consuming shrimp.
This disclaimer is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional food safety guidelines.
