Description
Creamy Rasta Pasta is a bold and flavorful Caribbean-inspired pasta dish featuring jerk seasoning, colorful bell peppers, and a luscious creamy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this quick and customizable recipe is ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, green)
2 teaspoons jerk seasoning (adjust for spice level)
1 cup coconut milk (full-fat)
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and sliced bell peppers. Cook for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Season: Sprinkle jerk seasoning over the vegetables, stirring to coat.
- Make Sauce: Pour in coconut milk and heavy cream (if using). Simmer, then stir in Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss cooked pasta into the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve warm.
Notes
Customize: Add grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu for extra protein.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free Parmesan or skip cheese for a vegan version.
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Main Course
- Cuisine: Caribbean-Italian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 420 kcal
