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Rasta Pasta

Rasta Pasta
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Rasta Pasta is a vibrant Caribbean-inspired dish that combines penne pasta with colorful bell peppers, jerk-seasoned protein, and a creamy, spicy sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this flavorful and comforting dish is perfect for quick weeknight dinners, customizable to vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free preferences, and packed with bold spices and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz penne pasta (regular or gluten-free)

Protein

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces (or tofu for vegetarian/vegan option)

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional)

Sauce & Seasoning

  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for vegan option)
  • 2 tsp jerk seasoning (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

Garnish

  • Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped
  • Additional grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Protein: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken pieces or tofu with jerk seasoning. Sauté until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Sauté chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers until tender but still crisp. Add finely chopped Scotch bonnet pepper if using for heat.
  4. Make the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream or coconut milk, stirring to combine with the vegetables. Add jerk seasoning to taste. Slowly fold in grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast) until melted, creating a rich, velvety sauce.
  5. Combine and Finish: Return cooked protein to the skillet and mix with the sauce and vegetables. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat everything evenly. Finish with fresh herbs and adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness when tossed in creamy sauce.
  • Use fresh bell peppers for authentic color and crunch.
  • Adjust Scotch bonnet pepper carefully as it is very spicy.
  • Use quality jerk seasoning for vibrant, authentic flavors.
  • Add Parmesan cheese slowly off or on low heat for the best melt and texture.
  • Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or parsley just before serving to brighten the flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Rasta Pasta, Caribbean pasta, jerk chicken pasta, creamy pasta, spicy pasta, vegetarian pasta, vegan pasta, gluten-free pasta, quick pasta recipe

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/rasta-pasta/