why make this recipe
Rasta Pasta is bright, creamy, and full of flavor. It brings Caribbean spices to everyday pasta. You can make it fast for weeknights or for guests. If you like bold taste and simple cooking, try this dish. For a different spicy pasta idea, see Cajun shrimp pasta.
introduction
This Rasta Pasta mixes peppers, cream, and jerk spice. It uses common ingredients and cooks fast. You can add chicken or shrimp for more protein. It fits simple cooking and tasty results. For an idea with shrimp, check this pasta recipe.
how to make Rasta Pasta
Follow these steps to make Rasta Pasta at home. Keep the heat medium and move quickly once the cream goes in.
Ingredients :
12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta, 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced, 1 onion, sliced, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk, ½ cup parmesan cheese or vegan substitute, 1 tsp jerk seasoning, Salt and pepper to taste, 2 chicken breasts or shrimp (optional)
Directions :
- Cook pasta until al dente, reserve pasta water.
- If using, season and cook chicken/shrimp, set aside.
- Sauté peppers, onion, and garlic in olive oil.
- Add jerk seasoning, cream, and parmesan. Simmer.
- Toss pasta in sauce, add reserved pasta water.
- Mix in protein, garnish with herbs, and serve.
You can learn more about quick pasta techniques in a similar dish: Cajun shrimp pasta.
how to serve Rasta Pasta
Serve hot on plates or in a large bowl. Add fresh parsley or green onions on top. Offer extra parmesan or lemon wedges on the side. Pair with a simple salad or steamed vegetables.
how to store Rasta Pasta
Cool the pasta to room temperature within two hours. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Rasta Pasta
- Use fresh bell peppers for bright flavor and color.
- Save some pasta water to thin the sauce if it gets too thick.
- If you use coconut milk, the dish will taste more tropical and dairy-free.
- Cook protein first and keep warm to avoid overcooking.
- For a spicy kick, add more jerk seasoning or a pinch of cayenne.
See another spicy pasta idea here: Cajun shrimp pasta.
variation (if any)
- Make it vegetarian: skip chicken/shrimp and add mushrooms or extra veggies.
- Make it vegan: use coconut milk and vegan parmesan.
- Make it extra spicy: add more jerk seasoning or hot sauce.
- Swap penne for rigatoni or fettuccine for a different bite.
FAQs
Q: Can I use coconut milk instead of cream?
A: Yes. Coconut milk works well and adds a mild coconut flavor.
Q: How long does the pasta last in the fridge?
A: It lasts 3–4 days in an airtight container.
Q: Can I make this ahead for a party?
A: Yes. Cook pasta and sauce, cool, and store separately. Reheat and combine before serving.
Q: Is jerk seasoning very spicy?
A: It can be. Start with 1 tsp and add more to taste.
Q: Can I use frozen peppers?
A: You can, but fresh peppers give better color and texture.
Conclusion
For a full written guide and a version with Caribbean jerk chicken, see this Rasta Pasta Recipe – Creamy Pasta w/ Caribbean Jerk Chicken: Rasta Pasta Recipe – Creamy Pasta w/ Caribbean Jerk Chicken.
Print
Rasta Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A bright and creamy pasta dish infused with Caribbean spices, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- ½ cup parmesan cheese or vegan substitute
- 1 tsp jerk seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 chicken breasts or shrimp (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta until al dente, reserving some pasta water.
- If using, season and cook chicken/shrimp, then set aside.
- Sauté peppers, onion, and garlic in olive oil.
- Add jerk seasoning, cream, and parmesan, then simmer.
- Toss pasta in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Mix in the protein, garnish with herbs, and serve hot.
Notes
For a milder dish, reduce jerk seasoning. Add fresh parsley for garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Rasta Pasta, Caribbean Pasta, Creamy Pasta, Quick Pasta Recipe, Jerk Seasoning