Get ready to set sail on a culinary adventure! Carnival Cruise offers a world of flavors and cuisines, inspired by the Caribbean, Bahamas, and beyond. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through 18 mouth-watering recipes that’ll make your taste buds dance. From classic comfort foods to tropical twists and international inspirations, these dishes are sure to satisfy any palate.
Whether you’re looking for easy weeknight meals or impressive dinner party ideas, our Carnival Cruise-inspired recipes have got you covered. So, grab a pen, paper, and your favorite cooking utensils – we’re about to embark on a flavorful voyage!
Caribbean Jerk Chicken Skewers
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with these addictive jerk chicken skewers, perfect for a quick and delicious meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (available at most grocery stores)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Key Lime Pie with Graham Cracker Crust
This classic Key Lime Pie recipe combines the brightness of key lime juice with the richness of a graham cracker crust, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until well combined. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Bake crust for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks and key lime juice until smooth. Stir in sweetened condensed milk.
5. Pour filling into baked crust and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until filling is set.
6. Allow pie to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tropical Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing tropical fruit salad, perfectly balanced by a tangy honey lime dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 cup mango chunks
– 1 cup papaya chunks
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– 1/2 cup red grapes, halved
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pineapple, mango, papaya, and orange segments.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture, tossing gently to coat.
4. Sprinkle with salt to taste (optional).
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in no time!
Carnival-Style Lobster Bisque
Carnival-Style Lobster Bisque Recipe
Summary: This rich and creamy lobster bisque is a twist on the classic New Orleans-style soup, featuring chunks of succulent lobster meat and a hint of Caribbean spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound lobster meat (fresh or frozen), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add lobster meat, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in heavy cream and whole milk. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let bisque simmer for 10-15 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
This classic Italian-American dish is a flavorful and satisfying seafood option that’s ready in just minutes. Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a simple yet impressive recipe perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium; add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to melt.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve garlic butter sauce over cooked shrimp, garnished with parsley or basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Jamaican Beef Patties with Flaky Crust
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with these tender beef patties wrapped in a crispy, flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– Pastry dough (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until the mixture is smooth.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Spoon the beef mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal.
7. Brush the tops with cold water and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bahamian Conch Fritters with Spicy Dipping Sauce
Experience the flavors of the Bahamas with this classic conch fritter recipe, served with a spicy dipping sauce that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound conch meat (or substitute with calamari), chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine conch meat, flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until just combined.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the conch mixture into the oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Spicy Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve conch fritters with Spicy Dipping Sauce for an unforgettable Bahamian experience!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pineapple Coconut Bread Pudding
Transform leftover bread into a sweet and tropical treat with this easy-to-make Pineapple Coconut Bread Pudding recipe. A perfect dessert for warm weather gatherings or anytime you crave something refreshing.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread cubes, pineapple juice, and melted butter. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add honey, vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pineapple. Mix until the bread is evenly coated.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and let cool before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Mahi-Mahi with Mango Salsa
This recipe combines the rich flavor of grilled mahi-mahi with the sweetness and tanginess of mango salsa, making for a perfect summer dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 mahi-mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves
– Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season mahi-mahi fillets with salt and pepper. Brush both sides with olive oil.
3. Grill mahi-mahi for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
5. Serve grilled mahi-mahi with mango salsa spooned over the top. Offer lime wedges on the side (optional).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Carnival Cruise Signature Chocolate Lava Cake
Experience the decadence of Carnival Cruise’s Signature Chocolate Lava Cake on land with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), broken into small pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine chocolate, egg, and melted butter; stir until smooth.
4. Add vanilla extract and whisk until combined.
5. Pour batter into 6-ounce ramekins or small cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool in ramekins for 1 minute.
8. Run a knife around the edges to release cakes, then invert onto plates.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creole Jambalaya with Andouille Sausage
Jambalaya, a staple of Louisiana cuisine, is a hearty one-pot dish that combines the flavors of Andouille sausage, chicken, and spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large cast-iron pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, sausage, onion, and garlic. Cook until the chicken is browned and the sausage is crispy.
3. Add the rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Banana Foster French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this decadent Banana Foster French Toast recipe, featuring caramelized bananas and a hint of rum.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, melt butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Add sliced bananas and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until caramelized.
6. Add brown sugar to the banana mixture and stir to combine.
7. Serve French toast with caramelized banana topping and a drizzle of dark rum (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Caribbean Rum Punch Cocktail
Get ready to transport yourself to the islands with this refreshing Caribbean Rum Punch cocktail! Made with a blend of tropical fruit juices, rum, and a hint of spice, this drink is perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a taste of paradise.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz dark rum
– 1 oz pineapple juice
– 1 oz orange juice
– 1/2 oz grenadine syrup
– 1/2 oz coconut cream
– Splash of ginger beer
– Lime wedges and mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and grenadine syrup.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Add coconut cream and stir until fully incorporated.
4. Chill mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, add a splash of ginger beer and stir gently.
6. Serve over ice in tall glasses and garnish with lime wedges and mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in under 10 minutes.
Seafood Paella with Saffron Rice
This classic Spanish dish is a flavorful combination of seafood, saffron-infused rice, and savory spices. With its rich aroma and vibrant yellow color, it’s perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1 pound chorizo, sliced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the rice, saffron mixture, shrimp, mussels, chorizo, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar Glaze
Transform a classic pineapple into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch slices
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Brush both sides of pineapple slices with melted butter.
4. Place pineapple slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
5. During the last minute of cooking, brush the Cinnamon Sugar Glaze (see below) evenly onto each slice.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cinnamon Sugar Glaze:
1. Mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl.
2. Brush glaze onto pineapple slices during last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce
A tropical twist on traditional shrimp, this recipe combines crispy coconut flakes with succulent shrimp and a tangy sweet chili sauce for dipping. Perfect as an appetizer or main course!
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet Chili Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut.
2. Dip each shrimp in the beaten eggs and then coat with the coconut-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with Sweet Chili Sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tropical Smoothie Bowl with Fresh Berries
Start your day off right with this refreshing and nutritious smoothie bowl featuring fresh berries and a hint of tropical flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup frozen mango chunks
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 1 cup fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Granola or chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine pineapple, mango, Greek yogurt, coconut milk, honey, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with fresh mixed berries.
4. If desired, add granola or chopped nuts for added crunch.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep), 2-3 minutes (blending)
Carnival-Style Baked Alaska with Meringue Topping
A classic dessert gets a festive twist with this Carnival-style Baked Alaska recipe, featuring a light and airy meringue topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup cubed pound cake (about 1 day old)
– Meringue topping (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in egg yolks and vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
4. Arrange cake cubes in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour warm cream mixture over the cake, letting it absorb the liquid.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Meringue Topping:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C).
2. In a medium bowl, beat egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Spread meringue over baked Alaska, making sure to seal the edges.
4. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to set sail on a culinary adventure! This collection of 18 delicious recipes from Carnival Cruise is perfect for any occasion. From Caribbean Jerk Chicken Skewers and Key Lime Pie with Graham Cracker Crust, to Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi and Jamaican Beef Patties with Flaky Crust, these mouth-watering dishes will transport you to a tropical paradise. Whether you’re looking for sweet treats like Pineapple Coconut Bread Pudding or savory meals like Seafood Paella with Saffron Rice, this diverse lineup has something for everyone. So grab your apron and get cooking with Carnival Cruise’s signature recipes!
