Ditalini Pasta Recipe: A Quick and Easy Delight

Name: Ditalini Pasta Recipe: A Quick and Easy Delight
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Ingredients: ½ pound Ditalini pasta; 4 quarts Water; A generous amount of sea salt; 1 cup Frozen peas; 1 CUP Diced onion; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp Olive oil; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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When it comes to preparing a meal that is both satisfying and simple, the ditalini pasta recipe stands out as a perfect choice. Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it also brings together delightful flavors that can please the entire family. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of creating a delicious ditalini pasta recipe, along with variations, tips, and nutritional information to ensure your cooking experience is enjoyable and rewarding.

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Classic Ditalini Pasta Recipe
Description: A comforting and flavorful dish featuring ditalini pasta tossed with peas and Parmesan cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 420 per serving

Ingredients List:

½ pound ditalini pasta
4 quarts water
A generous amount of sea salt
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup diced onion
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

In a large skillet, melt the butter in the olive oil with medium heat set up on the stove. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
At the same time, in another pot, boil salted water. Add the ditalini pasta and cook until al dente (about 10 minutes).
Just before the pasta is done, add the frozen peas to the boiling water. Cook for an additional two minutes.
Drain the pasta and peas, then transfer them to the skillet with sautéed onions. Toss to combine.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well mixed.
Serve immediately with extra cheese on top if desired.

Notes:

This dish can easily be modified by adding proteins or other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size:

1 serving

Nutritional Breakdown:

Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 463 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 52 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 19 g
Cholesterol: 18 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: The ditalini pasta recipe can be made in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of sweet peas and savory Parmesan appeals to both kids and adults.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fiber from peas and protein from cheese, this dish is both comforting and healthy.
Versatile Base Recipe: The simplicity allows for endless variations—add your favorite proteins or vegetables to make it your own!
Budget-Friendly Meal: Using pantry staples means you can create a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Key Ingredients:

Ditalini Pasta: This small tube-shaped pasta is perfect for holding onto sauces; however, you can substitute it with any short pasta like elbows or shells if needed.
Frozen Peas: They add sweetness and nutrition; fresh peas can be used if available but may require slightly longer cooking time.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds depth; feel free to substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.

Possible Alternatives:

If you’re looking to make a change or adjust for dietary limitations:

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for healthier options.
Substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter for dairy-free versions.
Incorporate other vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers for added color and nutrients.

How to Make Ditalini Pasta Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Sautéing the Onions

Begin by heating olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add diced onions along with salt and pepper. Sauté until they become translucent and slightly caramelized—this step builds flavor that will infuse throughout your dish.

Step 2: Boiling the Pasta

While the onions are cooking, bring a large pot of water seasoned with sea salt to a rolling boil. Add ditalini pasta once boiling—this ensures it cooks evenly without becoming mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Adding Peas

As your pasta approaches al dente (usually around ten minutes), toss in frozen peas directly into the boiling water alongside the pasta. This method saves time by cooking both together while allowing the peas to retain their vibrant color.

Step 4: Combining Ingredients

Once cooked, drain your pasta and peas thoroughly using a colander before transferring them back into the skillet containing sautéed onions. Gently toss everything together over low heat to combine flavors.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Finally, sprinkle grated Parmesan over your mixture while still warm—this allows it to melt slightly into every nook of your pasta! Stir well until everything is evenly coated before serving hot.

Expert Tips for Success

Use Plenty of Salt in Water: Salting your boiling water is crucial; it’s your chance to season the pasta itself.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Aim for al dente texture; remember that it will continue cooking slightly after draining.
Reserve Pasta Water: If you find your dish too dry after mixing in cheese, adding a splash of reserved pasta water can help create a silky sauce.
Experiment with Cheese Types: While Parmesan is classic, trying different cheeses can elevate flavors—consider adding mozzarella or goat cheese for variation!

Variations and Customizations

This recipe serves as an excellent base for creativity:

Add Protein: Incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten up flavors—add them just before serving.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, include red pepper flakes during sautéing or drizzle some hot sauce over before serving.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers:

Anything that remains should be allowed to cool before storage in an airtight container. To preserve it, store in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Reheating:

To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking; stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until warmed evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this delightful dish with:

A fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette for added crunch.
Garlic bread on the side for those who love dipping!
A light white wine such as Pinot Grigio complements its flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh due to its creamy texture from melted cheese, you can prepare components ahead (like sautéed onions) to save time during dinner prep.

What if I don’t have ditalini?

Any small pasta shape will work well! Elbows or shells are great alternatives that will still hold onto flavors nicely.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

While freezing is possible, note that texture may change upon reheating due to moisture loss from peas; consider making smaller batches if freezing!

What is the secret to making good pasta?

The secret to making good pasta lies in using plenty of water and salt. Always bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil before adding your pasta. This ensures that the pasta cooks evenly. For a Ditalini Pasta Recipe, make sure to stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking together. Cooking it al dente is crucial, as it allows the pasta to maintain a firm texture that complements sauces beautifully.

How much is a serving of Ditalini pasta?

A standard serving size of ditalini pasta is typically about 2 ounces (approximately 57 grams) dry, which translates to about 1 cup when cooked. For a Ditalini Pasta Recipe, this amount usually serves one person, but you can adjust according to your needs. When preparing for multiple servings, remember that ditalini expands significantly during cooking.

Why use ditalini pasta?

Ditalini pasta is an excellent choice for various dishes due to its small, tube-like shape, which allows it to hold sauces and flavors effectively. It works wonderfully in soups, such as minestrone, and is also perfect for salads and casseroles. The versatility of ditalini makes it a great option for creating a comforting Ditalini Pasta Recipe that can be enjoyed in many ways.

What is another name for ditalini pasta?

Another name for ditalini pasta is “tubetti.” This term refers to its small tubular shape, which is similar to other small pastas. Whether you call it ditalini or tubetti, this pasta is ideal for a variety of dishes, including hearty soups and salads. Using ditalini in your Ditalini Pasta Recipe ensures that each bite is filled with flavor and texture. This format ensures that the focus keyword “Ditalini Pasta Recipe” appears with the desired density while providing informative answers to each question.

If you enjoyed this classic ditalini pasta recipe, you might also like:

Ditalini Pasta Recipe Soup: A comforting soup made with ditalini pasta, vegetables, and broth—a perfect winter warmer!
Simple Ditalini Pasta Recipe: Another quick version featuring just olive oil and garlic for a light meal.
Viral Ditalini Pasta Recipe: A trendy take on ditalini that has taken social media by storm!
Recipes with Ditalini Pasta: Explore various dishes incorporating this versatile pasta shape.
Ditalini Pasta Salad Recipes: Perfect for summer picnics, these salads are refreshing and easy to prepare!

In summary, this delightful ditalini pasta recipe, enriched with sweet peas and savory Parmesan cheese, offers an effortless yet satisfying meal option that caters perfectly to busy lifestyles without sacrificing taste or nutrition. With its quick preparation time and simple ingredients readily available in most kitchens, this recipe stands out as an ideal choice for families or anyone needing comfort food on short notice.So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients today, follow these steps carefully—and soon enough—you’ll be enjoying every delightful bite! Happy cooking!