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If you are tired of the same old pasta and want to try something new, crispy and a little different, then Rasta Pasta Recipe is perfect for you! This dish is not only delicious, but also has a lot of flavor and aroma.

What is Rasta Pasta?

Rasta pasta is a Caribbean-Italian fusion dish originally inspired by Rastafarian culture. Three colors (red, yellow, green) are prominent in Rastafarian culture – and that’s what you get to see in this pasta through bell peppers. Initially, this dish was vegetarian, but nowadays it also includes chicken, prawns or tofu.

Rasta Pasta Recipe Ingredients

Before we get cooking, let’s gather everything you need.

For the Pasta:

• Penne pasta – 250g (you can use rotini or fusilli too)
• Salt – as per taste
• Water – for boiling

For the Sauce:

• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Onion – 1 medium, sliced
• Bell peppers – 1 each of red, yellow, green (sliced)
• Heavy cream – 1 cup
• Cream cheese – 2 tbsp (optional for extra creaminess)
• Parmesan cheese – ½ cup
• Jerk seasoning – 2 tbsp (homemade or store-bought)
• Black pepper – ½ tsp
• Paprika – 1 tsp

For the Protein (Optional):

• Chicken breast – 250g (sliced)
• Jerk seasoning – 1 tbsp
• Salt – to taste
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Lemon juice – 1 tsp

Step by Step Rasta Pasta Recipe

Let’s jump into the delicious journey of making this Caribbean-Italian fusion Recipe!

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add pasta and cook until al dente (firm to the bite).
• Drain and set aside. Drizzle a little olive oil to keep it from sticking.

Don’t overcook the pasta. It will continue cooking slightly in the sauce later.

Step 2: Season & Cook the Chicken

• In a bowl, mix chicken slices with jerk seasoning, salt, olive oil, and lemon juice.
• Heat a pan and cook the chicken on medium-high heat until nicely seared and cooked through.
• Remove and keep aside.

If you are Vegetarian: Use tofu or mushrooms instead of chicken.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pan, add olive oil and sauté garlic and onions until fragrant.
• Add bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still colorful.

Do not overcook the vegetables, otherwise they will lose their color and crispness.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

• Add heavy cream to the pan and stir gently.
• Mix in cream cheese (if using) and parmesan cheese.
• Season with jerk seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and salt if needed.
• Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens.

This is where the magic happens – that creamy, spicy base that defines Rasta Pasta.

Step 5: Mix Pasta & Chicken

• Add cooked pasta and jerk chicken to the sauce.
• Toss well until everything is nicely coated.
• Let it sit for a couple of minutes on low heat so that the flavors soak in.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

• Garnish with fresh parsley or coriander.
• Serve hot with some grated parmesan or a dash of lime for a zesty kick.

Now your Spicy, Creamy and Vibrant – Rasta Pasta is ready!

Why You’ll Love This Rasta Pasta

• Colorful & Vibrant – Just like Caribbean culture
• Spicy & Creamy – A perfect flavor balance
• Customizable – Add chicken, shrimp, tofu or make it vegetarian
• Quick to Make – Ready in under 30 minutes
• Perfect for Parties – A crowd-pleaser!

Homemade Jerk Seasoning Recipe (Bonus!)

If you want to go all authentic, here’s how you can make jerk seasoning at home:

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp allspice
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp brown sugar

Mix all together and store in an airtight jar.

Great for chicken, tofu, veggies, and even popcorn!

Healthy Twists You Can Try

• Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber
• Substitute coconut milk instead of cream for a tropical taste
• Add spinach or broccoli for an extra nutrition punch
• Make it vegan by skipping the cheese and cream

If you want to try something new, fun and experimental in your kitchen – then make Rasta Pasta Recipe. This dish is very tasty, delicious and easy to prepare. So, get ready to bring some Caribbean fire to your pasta nights. Because once you taste Rasta Pasta, there’s no going back to boring!

Make it, eat it, and share it with your friends – because life needs a little ‘reggae’ flavor too

Want more delicious recipes like this? Save Cookwithbisht to your favorites, drop your cooking questions in the comments, and share the flavor with your food-loving crew!

FAQs About Rasta Pasta Recipe