Rasta pasta is a colorful pasta dish inspired by Jamaican cuisine and the colors of the Rastafarian flag (red, green, and yellow). It typically features:
- Creamy sauce: Often made with a base of cream cheese, milk, or coconut milk, the sauce can be mild or spicy depending on the recipe.
- Bell peppers: Red, green, and yellow bell peppers are chopped and sauteed to add pops of color and sweetness to the dish.
- Pasta: Penne is a popular choice, but other shapes can be used as well.
- Protein (optional): Some variations incorporate jerk chicken, shrimp, or other protein options.
The name “rasta pasta” is believed to have originated in Negril, Jamaica, in the 1980s. It’s become a popular dish on Caribbean restaurant menus and has variations all over the world.