Craving a bowl of warm, comforting pasta that’s both incredibly simple to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this delightful ditalini pasta recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend lunch, this Italian-inspired dish brings together tender ditalini pasta with a rich tomato broth, fresh spinach, and savory Parmesan cheese, promising a wholesome meal the whole family will adore.
This ditalini pasta recipe is designed to be your new go-to for a satisfying and quick meal. It’s a versatile dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, proving that delicious home cooking doesn’t have to be complicated.
Why This Ditalini Pasta Recipe Works Wonders for Your Dinner Table
- Speed & Simplicity: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, this ditalini pasta recipe is ideal for quick yet nourishing meals.
- Comforting & Flavorful: Tender ditalini pasta, savory broth, and bright tomatoes create a deeply satisfying and hearty dish – a warm hug in a bowl.
- Highly Customizable: This versatile ditalini pasta recipe serves as a fantastic base for adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, easily adapting to your pantry or preferences.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Ditalini Pasta Recipe
Crafting the best ditalini pasta recipe starts with understanding each ingredient’s role. While the list is simple, quality makes all the difference.
The Foundation: Olive Oil, Onion, and Garlic
Use good quality extra virgin olive oil to sauté aromatics. The small diced onion sweetens the base when softened, and two minced garlic cloves add crucial fragrant depth to Italian cooking. Proper sautéing builds the foundational flavor for your entire ditalini pasta recipe.
The Liquid Gold: Diced Tomatoes and Broth
A 14.5 oz can of undrained diced tomatoes adds tang and body. Its juice infuses the pasta with more tomato flavor. Four cups of vegetable or chicken broth form the rich liquid base where the ditalini pasta will cook. Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt content.
The Star: Ditalini Pasta
The star of this ditalini pasta recipe is, of course, the ditalini pasta itself! These small, tube-shaped pieces soak up all the delicious broth and sauce, making every bite flavorful. One cup is perfect for four servings, ensuring a good pasta-to-sauce ratio.
Freshness & Finish: Spinach, Parmesan, Basil, Salt & Pepper
Fresh spinach, stirred in at the last minute, wilts beautifully, adding vibrant color and nutrients. Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish, adds a salty, umami finish. Fresh basil leaves provide an aromatic lift. Seasoning with salt and black pepper is key to bringing out all the wonderful flavors in your ditalini pasta recipe.
Step-by-Step Overview: Crafting Your Delicious Ditalini Pasta Recipe
Follow these simple instructions to create a hearty and satisfying ditalini pasta recipe that will become a family favorite.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook gently for about 5 minutes until softened. This step lays the groundwork for the rich flavor profile of your ditalini pasta recipe.
Step 2: Infuse with Garlic
Add two minced garlic cloves; stir for one minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, which can turn bitter and affect the taste.
Step 3: Build the Broth Base
Pour in undrained diced tomatoes and four cups of broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing flavors to meld.
Step 4: Cook the Ditalini Pasta
Add one cup of ditalini pasta to the simmering liquid. Cook according to package directions (typically 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Wilt the Spinach
During the final minute of cooking, stir in half a cup of fresh chopped spinach. The residual heat will quickly wilt it, adding a fresh, green element to your ditalini pasta recipe.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.
Ditalini Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to package directions, usually 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in the fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking until wilted.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Ladle the ditalini pasta into bowls, garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.
Notes
Tips & Variations for Your Perfect Ditalini Pasta Recipe
This ditalini pasta recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some ideas to make it uniquely yours:
Adding Extra Protein
- Chicken: Stir in 1-2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken during the last few minutes. Leftover rotisserie chicken works well.
- Beans: Cannellini beans (rinsed and drained, 15-ounce can) are a fantastic vegetarian protein addition. Add them with the broth for a more substantial ditalini pasta recipe.
- Sausage: Browned Italian sausage (mild or spicy) can be added with the onions for extra flavor and protein.
Spice It Up
If you enjoy heat, a dash of red pepper flakes (start with a quarter teaspoon) added with the garlic will give your ditalini pasta recipe a nice kick.
Vegetable Boosts
Consider adding other quick-cooking vegetables. Small broccoli florets or chopped zucchini can be added with the ditalini pasta, while frozen peas can be stirred in with the spinach. This ensures your ditalini pasta recipe is packed with goodness.
Cheese Choices
While Parmesan is classic, experiment with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or stir in a dollop of ricotta at the end for extra creaminess.
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
This ditalini pasta recipe is best fresh, but the tomato and broth base can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. Reheat the base and cook the ditalini pasta fresh to serve. Leftovers store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Add a splash of broth or water when reheating as the pasta will absorb liquid.
For more hearty meal ideas, explore our Baked Beans Recipe That Hits the Sweet & Smoky Spot Every Time, or if you’re in the mood for an innovative twist on a classic, check out the Cheeseburger Onion Ring Roll: The Ultimate Flavorful Twist on a Classic.
Serving Suggestions for Your Hearty Ditalini Pasta Recipe
This comforting ditalini pasta recipe is satisfying on its own, but simple additions can create a complete and delightful meal.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious tomato broth.
- Fresh Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a robust meal, serve alongside roasted asparagus or broccoli.
- Wine Pairing: A light-bodied red wine like Sangiovese or a crisp white like Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully.
Embrace the Comfort of This Easy Ditalini Pasta Recipe
From its humble ingredients to its incredibly satisfying flavor, this ditalini pasta recipe is a testament to the power of simple, wholesome cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you’ll find joy in preparing this quick, comforting, and customizable dish. It’s the perfect answer to “what’s for dinner?” when you need something delicious and easy. So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite ditalini pasta recipe. Enjoy every spoonful!