Hearty Jamaican Rasta Pasta

Name: Hearty Jamaican Rasta Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Jamaican jerk seasoning; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Culture Inspired Recipes

I absolutely love making Hearty Jamaican Rasta Pasta, as it combines vibrant flavors and colorful ingredients that create a delightful family meal. The fusion of spices, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauce transports me straight to the Caribbean. Every time I prepare this dish, I am reminded of the warmth of tropical breezes and the joyous spirit of Jamaican culture. It's quick to make and perfect for weeknight dinners, packed with flavor and nutrition that everyone will enjoy. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-05T17:41:00.649Z

When I first stumbled upon the recipe for Hearty Jamaican Rasta Pasta, I was captivated by the colorful array of ingredients. The combination of bell peppers, onions, and creamy sauce was too tempting to resist. As I cooked, I realized that using fresh herbs really elevated the flavor, making it more vibrant and aromatic.

One unique aspect I discovered is the importance of cooking the pasta al dente before mixing it with the sauce; this creates a perfect texture and prevents it from becoming soggy. With a few adjustments and my personal touch, this has become a staple in my home.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce infused with Caribbean spices
Vibrant colors from fresh vegetables that brighten any dinner table
A quick and easy recipe, perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Role of Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is a star ingredient in this Hearty Jamaican Rasta Pasta, providing a rich and creamy texture that balances the heat of the jerk seasoning. When selecting coconut milk, aim for a full-fat version for the best creaminess. Look for cans that contain no added preservatives or emulsifiers. The milk should be thick and slightly glossy; once heated, it should bubble gently. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can use light coconut milk, but keep in mind that it may lack some richness.

In addition to adding creaminess, coconut milk also imparts a subtle sweetness, making it an excellent counterpoint to the spicy elements. To enhance the flavor further, consider adding a splash of lime juice just before serving. This citrus note brings brightness and elevates the overall dish, balancing the creamy texture with a zesty finish.

Vegetable Variations

The beauty of Rasta Pasta lies in its versatility, especially when it comes to vegetables. While bell peppers lend a beautiful color and flavor, feel free to substitute in other fresh vegetables. Zucchini, broccoli florets, or snap peas would work wonderfully, adding more nutrients and crunch. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if you incorporate denser veggies like broccoli, sautéing them a couple of minutes longer until they are tender but still vibrant.

For a heartier dish, consider adding protein sources such as chickpeas or grilled chicken. If using chickpeas, you can toss them in with the cherry tomatoes, allowing them to absorb some of the sauce’s flavor. For chicken, sauté bite-sized pieces alongside the onions for an enriched flavor profile while ensuring they are cooked through. This flexibility allows you to personalize your Rasta Pasta to suit your dietary preferences!

Ingredients

Gather the fresh ingredients for a delightful cooking experience:

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Jamaican jerk seasoning
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients will help you create a flavorful Jamaican-inspired dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Hearty Jamaican Rasta Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent. Stir in the bell peppers and garlic, cooking until softened.

Add Sauces and Seasoning

Sprinkle the jerk seasoning over the sautéed vegetables, then pour in the coconut milk. Stir and bring to a simmer.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta and cherry tomatoes to the skillet, mixing well. Allow to heat through, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of flavor and color.

Enjoy your delicious and hearty Jamaican Rasta Pasta!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, feel free to toss in some cooked shrimp or chicken. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Hearty Jamaican Rasta Pasta is perfect for meal prep; you can easily store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the pasta from drying out during storage, add a touch of extra coconut milk or a splash of water before sealing the container. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little extra liquid if necessary, until warmed through and creamy.

If you’d like to store it for an extended period, consider freezing it. Portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers, ensuring that there’s a bit of sauce covering the pasta to prevent it from getting freezer-burned. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as described for a quick dinner that retains its delightful flavors.

Make-Ahead Options

Preparing ingredients ahead of time can make this dish even quicker to put together on a busy weeknight. You can chop your vegetables and store them in the refrigerator a day prior, which not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together slightly. Additionally, you can cook the pasta a few hours in advance; just be sure to toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together until you are ready to combine it with the sauce.

For those who enjoy bold flavors, consider marinating the vegetables in a little coconut milk mixed with jerk seasoning for an hour before cooking. This technique will infuse the vegetables with a deeper flavor and enhance the overall dish once everything comes together in the skillet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute penne pasta with any pasta of your choice, such as fusilli or spaghetti.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this Hearty Jamaican Rasta Pasta is vegetarian-friendly as it features only plant-based ingredients.

→ How can I make it spicier?

You can increase the amount of jerk seasoning, or add some red pepper flakes for an additional kick.

→ Can I prepare it in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance, then combine them just before serving to maintain the best texture.