Ditalini Pasta Recipe
A rich, creamy, and flavorful ditalini pasta dish that’s perfect for weeknights. This easy one-pan meal comes together in just 30 minutes and is packed with savory tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. It's versatile, budget-friendly, and family-approved—perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner solution!
Equipment
- Large pot – For boiling the pasta
- Large skillet or saucepan – For making the sauce
- Colander – To drain the pasta
- Cutting board & knife – For chopping onions, garlic, and spinach
- Measuring cups & spoons – For precise ingredient measurements
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the sauce
Ingredients
- 2 cups ditalini pasta or gluten-free alternative
- 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped (about ½ cup)
- 2 garlic cloves minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes)
- 1 cup spinach chopped (or kale)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan version
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1️⃣ Cook the Pasta – Boil ditalini pasta in vegetable broth until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- 2️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics – In a skillet, heat olive oil, then sauté onions until soft. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- 3️⃣ Build the Sauce – Stir in diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- 4️⃣ Combine and Creamify – Add cooked pasta and stir in heavy cream (or coconut cream). Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
- 5️⃣ Add Greens & Cheese – Fold in spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in Parmesan until melted.
- 6️⃣ Serve & Garnish – Plate the pasta and garnish with extra cheese, olive oil drizzle, or red pepper flakes.
Video
Notes
❄️ Storage & Reheating Tips
🥶 Fridge Storage – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheating – Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to refresh the sauce.
❄️ Freezing – Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
🥶 Fridge Storage – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheating – Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to refresh the sauce.
❄️ Freezing – Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.