A delightful fusion of pasta and jambalaya, this Cajun Pastalaya is packed with bold flavours and spices, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Prep
15 min
Cook
30 min
Total
45 min
Servings
6
Difficulty
Medium
Instructions
Cook the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
Pro tip: Ensure the chicken is well-browned for added flavour.
Add sausage and vegetables
Add the smoked sausage, onion, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
Pro tip: Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Incorporate garlic and seasoning
Stir in the garlic and Cajun seasoning. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pro tip: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
Add tomatoes and stock
Pour in the canned tomatoes and chicken stock. Bring to a simmer.
Pro tip: Use high-quality stock for better flavour.
Cook the pasta
Add the penne pasta to the pot. Stir well and cover. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
Pro tip: Check the pasta package for cooking times.
Finish and serve
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in chopped parsley. Serve hot.
Pro tip: Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh touch.
Tips & Tricks
- Use smoked sausage for a deeper flavour.
- Cajun seasoning can be adjusted to taste.
- For a vegetarian version, replace meat with mushrooms and bell peppers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cajun Pastalaya?
Cajun Pastalaya is a dish that combines the flavours of traditional jambalaya with pasta instead of rice.
How many calories are in Cajun Pastalaya?
There are approximately 520 calories per serving of Cajun Pastalaya.
Can I make Cajun Pastalaya vegetarian?
Yes, replace the chicken and sausage with mushrooms and additional vegetables like bell peppers.
How long does it take to cook Cajun Pastalaya?
The total time to prepare Cajun Pastalaya is about 45 minutes.
What pasta is best for Pastalaya?
Penne pasta works well in Pastalaya as it holds up to the sauce and absorbs flavours.
Can I freeze Cajun Pastalaya?
Yes, you can freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What is the origin of Cajun Pastalaya?
Cajun Pastalaya is rooted in Louisiana, where it's a twist on the classic jambalaya, using pasta instead of rice.
Serving Suggestions
Nutrition per serving
520
Calories
32g
Protein
18g
Fat
60g
Carbs
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