Hey, my name is Austin, and I’m a food blogger on the website “Beyond the Bayou Blog.” Today, I prepared a vibrant and flavorful dish called “Rasta Pasta.” This dish holds a special place in my heart.
The first time I tried it was during a trip to Jamaica, where I was introduced to the bold flavors of jerk seasoning. The colorful bell peppers and creamy pasta sauce remind me of the warm, sunny days and the lively culture of the island.
Back home, I decided to recreate that experience in my kitchen. I love how this dish combines the spiciness of jerk seasoning with the richness of a creamy pasta sauce. It’s not only delicious but also brings a burst of color to the table.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special to impress your friends, Rasta Pasta is a winner every time. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a little bit of Jamaica to your kitchen! For more such pasta options try Boursin Pasta or Pastalaya.
What Is Rasta Pasta?
Rasta pasta is a colorful and flavorful dish inspired by Jamaican Rastafarian culture. Rastafari, a religion and lifestyle that began in Jamaica in the 1930s, uses the colors red, green, and gold, represented by the bell peppers in this dish. The key ingredient in Rasta pasta is jerk seasoning, which adds a bit of heat and bold flavor, making the dish truly special.
What to Love About This Recipe?
- Delicious and Creamy: This pasta is incredibly creamy and velvety. Using high-quality heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan ensures it’s perfectly rich and smooth.
- Easy and Quick: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s quick to make, and the cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pot and skillet.
- Full of Flavor: The combination of spices and herbs creates a bold, well-seasoned dish. The flavors pair perfectly with the pasta, making it a family favorite.
- Versatile for Any Meal: This pasta is great for dinner, lunch, or even breakfast if you’re feeling adventurous. Plus, it reheats beautifully on the stovetop, making leftovers just as tasty as the first serving.
Rasta Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Heavy-bottomed pot or skillet
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
Ingredients
- 16 ounces 450 g dried pasta
- 2 large chicken breasts or 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 tbsp for frying chicken, 1 tbsp for sautéing bell peppers
- 3 tablespoons jerk seasoning 1.5 tbsp with the chicken, 1.5 tbsp goes in the sauce
- 3 bell peppers in different colors sliced
- ½ cup green onions sliced
- 2-3 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup 60 ml vegetable stock or chicken stock
- ½ cup 120 ml heavy cream or half and half
- ½ cup 80 g parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Prepare pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Set aside.
- Prepare Chicken: If using raw chicken breasts, cube them, toss in jerk seasoning, and cook until golden and fully cooked. If using rotisserie chicken, shred it and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the sliced bell peppers and green onions until softened. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add Jerk Seasoning: Stir in the remaining jerk seasoning.
- Make Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and vegetable or chicken stock. Add the cooked chicken. Simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Combine and Serve: Mix in the grated parmesan cheese and cooked pasta until well combined.
- Garnish: Garnish with chopped chives, green onions, or parsley. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
What to Serve with Rasta Pasta?
