Rasta Pasta

Name: Rasta Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 ounces penne pasta; 3 tablespoons cooking oil; 1 pound chicken breast (cut into cubes); ½ cup sliced onion; ½ red bell pepper (thinly sliced); ½ green bell pepper (thinly sliced); ½ yellow bell pepper (thinly sliced); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning; ½ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 4–5 fresh thyme sprigs); 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup reserved pasta water (optional, for thinning the sauce)

Penne tossed with cubed chicken, sautéed peppers, and onions in a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce with garlic and paprika.

Glycemic Load: 29.2 (High)

884 calories per serving

Serves: 4

Prep: 10 minutes

Cook: 20 minutes

dessert main dish

Original recipe: yourperfectrecipes.com

About This Calculation

Rasta Pasta has a high glycemic load of 29.2 per serving — significant blood sugar impact — consider pairing with protein and fiber, or adjusting portion size.

The primary glycemic load contributors are penne pasta, dry (GL 28.0), heavy cream (GL 0.4), Cajun seasoning (GL 0.2). These ingredients account for the majority of the carbohydrate impact per serving.

Glycemic load is calculated as GL = (GI × Net Carbs per serving) ÷ 100, where GI is the glycemic index and net carbs exclude dietary fiber. Calculations draw on established nutritional references including USDA FoodData Central values and peer-reviewed glycemic index research.