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: 12 oz pasta (penne or your choice); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup coconut milk; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Recipes

I love making Hearty Jamaican Rasta Pasta because it's such a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be prepared in no time. The combination of colorful bell peppers, fresh herbs, and a creamy sauce gives this pasta an irresistible appeal. Each time I bring it to the table, it brings smiles and compliments from friends and family. It's a delightful way to indulge in Caribbean flavors while keeping it simple and satisfying, making it a go-to recipe for celebrations or a cozy family dinner.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:54:29.926Z

When I first tried making Rasta Pasta, I was mesmerized by the burst of flavors and colors in the dish. Using coconut milk not only adds creaminess but also a tropical essence that transports me to the Caribbean. The secret lies in balancing the spices – a little kick from the pepper and a touch of sweetness from the bell peppers meld together beautifully.

As I cooked, I learned that letting the pasta soak up the creamy sauce for a few extra minutes elevates the dish. It's all about getting that perfect al dente texture while allowing the rich flavors to meld. I can't recommend garnishing with fresh cilantro to enhance the dish's appeal enough!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant colors with a tropical twist
Creamy coconut sauce that creates a comforting dish
Quick to prepare for a weeknight dinner or special occasions

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The vibrant combination of bell peppers in Hearty Jamaican Rasta Pasta not only adds rich color but also a spectrum of flavors from sweet to slightly tangy. Using fresh vegetables is key; I recommend selecting firm peppers with shiny skin. They should not only be colorful but also should feel heavy for their size. If fresh peppers aren't available, frozen sliced bell peppers can work in a pinch—just be sure to cook them longer to soften.

Coconut milk is the star of the dish, creating a rich and creamy sauce that ties everything together. Choose a full-fat coconut milk for a luscious texture, ensuring your sauce coats the pasta beautifully. If you're looking for a lighter version, you could substitute part of the coconut milk with vegetable broth, but it will alter the creamy richness of the dish. Always stir it well to avoid clumps for a silky finish.

Cooking Tips for Success

When cooking pasta, remember to salt your water generously; this is your only chance to season the pasta itself. Aim for a salt level akin to the ocean for the best flavor. Timing is crucial—check the pasta package for cooking times but set your timer for a minute or two less to achieve the perfect al dente texture. This will enhance the overall bite and allow it to hold up better against the creamy sauce.

In the sauce-making step, incorporating the grated Parmesan cheese gradually as you simmer it with the coconut milk allows it to melt evenly without clumping. If you notice the sauce is too thick, don't hesitate to add more reserved pasta water—this is a great way to ensure the sauce maintains a silky texture. Aim for a consistency that allows it to cling to the pasta but isn't too gloopy.

Ingredients

Pasta Ingredients

12 oz pasta (penne or your choice)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce Ingredients

1 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.

Make the Sauce

Stir in the coconut milk, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated. If the mixture is too thick, add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Adjust seasoning with cayenne pepper, if desired.

Garnish and Serve

Serve hot, topped with chopped cilantro for freshness and enjoy your Hearty Jamaican Rasta Pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding grilled chicken or shrimp to the pasta. You can also experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or spinach.

Serving Suggestions

Hearty Jamaican Rasta Pasta can be served with a sprinkle of additional cheese on top, alongside a simple side salad dressed with lime vinaigrette. This lightens the meal and complements the richness of the pasta. For an added crunch, consider tossing in some toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds just before serving.

Feeling adventurous? You can elevate this dish by adding grilled shrimp or jerk chicken for a protein-packed version. This not only enhances the Caribbean flair but also makes it a heartier meal. Just be sure to cook your proteins separately and add them at the end to maintain their juiciness.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the Hearty Jamaican Rasta Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the texture from becoming too dry, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or broth when reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through—avoid microwaving if possible as it can create uneven heating.

For meal prep, this dish also freezes well—simply portion it out into individual containers before freezing. When you're ready to enjoy again, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as mentioned. The flavors continue to develop during freezing, so you may find it tastes even better the next day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well with this recipe. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add more cayenne pepper or include some chopped jalapeños in the vegetable mix for added heat.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of coconut milk to loosen it up.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best to reheat gently to maintain the creaminess.