Embrace the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with this creamy rasta pasta recipe featuring succulent jerk chicken, a creamy coconut sauce, and vibrant bell peppers. This comforting dish is a perfect blend of savory and spicy, offering a unique and delicious twist on traditional pasta dishes.
This creamy Rasta pasta recipe offers a delicious and vibrant exploration of Caribbean flavors. With its blend of spices, creamy sauce and soft chicken, it will definitely enhance your taste buds and become a favorite in your list of dishes.
What is Rasta Pasta?
Rasta Pasta is a flavorful and colorful dish inspired by Jamaican cuisine. It typically consists of pasta (usually penne or fettuccine) tossed with a variety of vibrant vegetables such as bell peppers, tomatoes, and onions, along with Caribbean spices like jerk seasoning or Scotch bonnet peppers for a kick of heat. The name “Rasta Pasta” is derived from Rastafarian culture, reflecting the dish’s bold and lively flavors. It’s a popular and satisfying dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with the zesty and aromatic elements of Jamaican cooking.
Unveiling the Flavors
This recipe incorporates jerk seasoning, a blend of spices like allspice, nutmeg, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers, creating a distinctive smoky and slightly spicy flavor profile. Coconut milk adds a creamy texture and subtle sweetness, balancing the heat from the jerk seasoning. Bell peppers offer vibrant color and a touch of sweetness, complementing the savory flavors of the chicken and sauce.
Ingredients:
For the Jerk Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (13.5-ounce) can coconut milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces dried pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rotini, farfalle)
Make Rasta Pasta Recipe Step-By-Step
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken, olive oil, jerk seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large bowl of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions for al dente texture. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until it barely softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Incorporate the Jerk Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
- Build the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the diced bell peppers, diced tomatoes (with their juices), coconut milk, chicken broth, brown sugar, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Assemble the Dish: Toss the cooked pasta and the creamy jerk chicken sauce together in a large bowl. Adjust seasonings if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Rasta Pasta hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for an extra touch of flavor and color.
Tips and Variations
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, use less jerk seasoning or omit the Scotch bonnet pepper if included in the blend. Alternatively, offer hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra heat.
- Vegetarian Option: To make this dish vegetarian, replace the chicken with your choice of protein alternatives, such as tofu, tempeh, or lentils. Adjust the cooking time accordingly depending on the chosen protein.
- Creamy Variations: For an even richer and creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream during the final simmering stage.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables besides bell peppers. Chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli can also be added to the dish for additional flavor and texture.
Additional Considerations
Serving Suggestions: Pair this flavorful dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Leftovers: Store leftover Rasta pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to maintain the creamy texture.
Dietary Information: This recipe can be adapted to fit various dietary needs. If you are gluten-free, choose gluten-free pasta options. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of dairy cream and ensure the jerk seasoning is dairy-free.
By following these tips and exploring variations, you can customize this recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs. So, embark on this culinary adventure, embrace the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean, and enjoy a taste of sunshine with your very own creamy Rasta pasta!
Read More: One Pot French Onion Pasta