Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Have you ever craved a dish that’s both incredibly comforting and surprisingly easy to make? A dish that reminds you of simpler times, maybe a cherished family recipe passed down through generations? Well, get ready to fall in love with ditalini pasta. This isn’t just another pasta recipe; it’s an invitation to experience pure, unadulterated comfort food bliss. We’re talking about a creamy, dreamy, utterly delicious Ditalini Pasta Recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen. And because I want to give you the best ideas, I’ve got a few ditalini pasta recipes to inspire you.
Table of contents
What Exactly is Ditalini Pasta Recipe?
Ditalini, which literally translates to “little thimbles” in Italian, is a tiny, tube-shaped pasta that’s perfect for capturing all sorts of delicious sauces. Its small size and unique shape make it incredibly versatile. Think of it as the underdog of the pasta world – often overlooked, but capable of delivering a serious flavor punch.
Ingredients for Ditalini Pasta Recipe
| Ingredient Name | Quantity | Special Notes |
| Ditalini Pasta | 1 pound | Choose a high-quality brand for the best texture. |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup | For extra richness, use full-fat. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version. |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons | Unsalted, to control the saltiness of the dish. |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced finely. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is always best! |
| Parmesan Cheese | ½ cup | Freshly grated. Pre-grated parmesan doesn’t melt as well. Pecorino Romano also works beautifully. |
| Chicken Broth | ½ cup | Adds depth of flavor. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. |
| Fresh Basil | ¼ cup | Chopped. Adds a bright, fresh flavor. You can substitute with dried basil, but use less (about 1 teaspoon). |
| Salt | To taste | Start with a pinch and adjust as needed. |
| Black Pepper | To taste | Freshly ground, for the best flavor. |
| Optional: Red Pepper Flakes | To taste | For a touch of heat. |
Kitchen Equipment Needed “Ditalini Pasta Recipe”
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Garlic press (optional)
- Grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
A Pro Weighs In on Pasta Perfection
“The key to a truly great pasta dish is perfectly cooked pasta and a well-balanced sauce,” says Chef Isabella Rossi, renowned Italian cuisine expert. “Don’t overcook your ditalini! Al dente is the way to go.”
Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Get Cooking
Time needed: 25 minutes
- Cook the Pasta:
First, put water into a big pot and add some salt to it. Place the water in a boiling state. When it starts boiling, add the ditalini pasta. Cook it for about 8-10 minutes or until done but still a little firm as per the package directions.
- Prepare the Sauce:
While the pasta is cooking, in a large pan, over medium heat, heat some butter. Cook the chopped garlic for about 30 seconds in the pan, until it gives a nice aroma. Do not, however, let it burn!
- Creamy Dreamy Time:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cheesy Goodness:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts, making the sauce smooth.
- Combine and Conquer:
After you cook the ditalini pasta, make sure to drain it. Then, put the pasta in the skillet with the creamy sauce. Mix everything together well so the pasta is covered with the sauce.
- Finishing Touches:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve Immediately:
Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks for Ditalini Pasta Recipe
- Salt Your Pasta Water! This is crucial for flavoring the pasta from the inside out.
- Do Not Overcook the Pasta! Al dente, which means ‘to the tooth’, means that the pasta should be slightly firm.
- Save Some Pasta Water! If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to thin it out. The starch in the pasta water will also help the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Fresh is Best! Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Beyond Just a Bowl
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve as a side dish with chicken or fish.
- Add some sautéed vegetables, such as mushrooms or spinach, for a heartier meal.
- Turn it into a baked pasta dish by topping it with breadcrumbs and baking it in the oven until golden brown.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
(Please keep in mind that this is only an estimate, and the actual amount may change based on the ingredients you use.)
Variations & Alternatives: Ditalini Your Way
- Spicy Ditalini: Add a little bit of red pepper flakes.
- Vegetarian Ditalini: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add some sautéed vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant.
- Lemon Ditalini: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and some lemon zest to the sauce for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Garlic Butter Ditalini: Omit the cream and Parmesan cheese. Simply toss the cooked ditalini with melted butter, garlic, and parsley.
In Conclusion: A Hug in a Bowl
This creamy dreamy ditalini pasta recipe is more than a meal, it is an experience. It is a taste of comfort, a reminder of simple pleasures and a dish that is sure to bring a smile to your face. Just give it a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed.
FAQ Section
Ditalini is a small, tube-shaped pasta. Its tiny size and shape make it perfect for capturing sauces and adding a delightful texture to soups and stews.
Besides this creamy ditalini, try a simple tomato sauce with garlic and herbs, or a light pesto sauce.
Absolutely! Ditalini is a classic addition to soups like minestrone or pasta e fagioli.
Cook ditalini according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
Pesto, creamy tomato sauce, or a simple garlic and olive oil sauce are all excellent vegetarian choices.
Who Should Skip This Recipe?
- If you’re following a strict low-carb or keto diet, this recipe might not be the best choice due to the high carbohydrate content of the pasta.
- If you have a dairy allergy or lactose, you’ll need to modify the recipe to use dairy-free alternatives.
- If you’re simply not a fan of creamy sauces, you might prefer a different ditalini pasta recipe, such as one with a tomato-based sauce.
What Do You Think? Join the Ditalini Discussion!
What’s your favorite way to enjoy ditalini pasta? Do you have any family recipes or secret ingredients that you’d like to share? Let’s talk pasta in the comments below!
Want more pasta inspiration? Check out my recipes :
My Ditalini Pasta Recipe Discovery: A Personal Story
I remember when I ever first tried ditalini pasta. I was visiting my grandmother in Italy and she made me a pasta e fagioli soup with ditalini, simple as that. The little shapes of pasta in that flavorful broth, like little joys in the mouth. From that moment I was hooked. Ditalini has been a comfort food for me ever since, a reminder of my grandmother’s love and the warmth of her kitchen. I hope this recipe brings you the joy it brings me.
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How To Cook Ditalini Pasta Recipe: Creamy and Delicious
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Garlic press (optional)
- Grater
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- Ditalini Pasta 1 pound Choose a high-quality brand for the best texture.
- Heavy Cream 1 cup For extra richness For extra richness, use full-fat. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Butter 4 tablespoons Unsalted to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Garlic 2 cloves Minced finely. You can use garlic powder in a pinch but fresh is always best!
- Parmesan Cheese ½ cup Freshly grated. Pre-grated parmesan doesn’t melt as well. Pecorino Romano also works beautifully.
- Chicken Broth ½ cup Adds depth of flavor. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Fresh Basil ¼ cup Chopped. Adds a bright, fresh flavor. You can substitute with dried basil, but use less (about 1 teaspoon).
- Salt To taste Start with a pinch and adjust as needed.
- Black Pepper To taste Freshly ground for the best flavor.
- Optional: Red Pepper Flakes To taste For a touch of heat.
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: First, put water into a big pot and add some salt to it. Place the water in a boiling state. When it starts boiling, add the ditalini pasta. Cook it for about 8-10 minutes or until done but still a little firm as per the package directions.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, in a large pan, over medium heat, heat some butter. Cook the chopped garlic for about 30 seconds in the pan, until it gives a nice aroma. Do not, however, let it burn!
- Creamy Dreamy Time: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cheesy Goodness: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts, making the sauce smooth.
- Combine and Conquer: After you cook the ditalini pasta, make sure to drain it. Then, put the pasta in the skillet with the creamy sauce. Mix everything together well so the pasta is covered with the sauce.
- Finishing Touches: Stir in the chopped fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve Immediately: Serve hot and enjoy!
