Ever wondered how a small pasta shape can make your cooking amazing? Ditalini pasta, from southern Italy, is short and tube-like. It’s perfect for making quick, tasty meals.
This pasta is known in the U.S. as smooth lisci, but you can also find the ribbed version, rigate ditalini, in specialty stores. It keeps its shape well, making it great for many dishes, like stews or salads. Cooking it takes only 8 to 9 minutes, so it’s quick. Plus, it’s a great base for many delicious recipes that are easy to make.
In this article, we’ll share easy ditalini pasta recipes that are both simple and tasty. So, get your ingredients ready and let’s start exploring quick pasta meals that will impress everyone!
Why You’ll Love Ditalini Pasta recipes
Ditalini pasta recipes are perfect for family meals. They are simple and quick to make. You can cook ditalini fast, with just 5 minutes of prep and 12 minutes of cooking. This means you can enjoy a meal in only 17 minutes for four people.
These recipes are also very versatile. You can mix them with proteins, sauces, and vegetables. This makes them great for even the pickiest eaters. Plus, each serving has about 420 calories, so it’s a healthy choice.
These features make ditalini pasta a top pick for your weeknight dinners.
Ditalini Pasta with Tomato and Basil
Are you ready for a dish that’s easy and tastes great? Ditalini pasta with tomato and basil is perfect for any meal. It’s a vegetarian dish that uses fresh ingredients, making it great for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- ½ lb ditalini pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed Italian tomatoes
- Fresh basil leaves
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the ditalini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the tomato mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Garnish with fresh basil and season with black pepper and salt as desired.
This dish is a simple yet flavorful addition to your pasta recipes. It makes 10 servings, ideal for sharing or enjoying later. You can prepare it in just 45 minutes, so it’s quick and delicious. Enjoy a taste of Italy with this easy vegetarian dish!
Ditalini Pasta Salad
Looking for a refreshing twist to your meal prep? Ditalini pasta salad is just the answer. It’s perfect for picnics or an easy lunch. This dish combines delightful ingredients for a colorful, flavorful salad. It’s filled with nutritious choices, making it a top pick among cold pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces of ditalini pasta
- 1 cup of chopped grape tomatoes
- 1 large zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 (2.25 ounce) can sliced black olives, drained
- 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella pearls or chopped fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup of diced provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup of chopped salami
- 1/2 cup of chopped pepperoncini peppers
- 1 (16-ounce) bottle of Zesty Italian Dressing, divided
- 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese
- Optional: Chopped fresh basil and parsley
Instructions:
- Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions; typically, it takes about 8-10 minutes to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
- While the pasta cooks, dice the vegetables and prepare the other ingredients.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and allow it to cool. For best results, refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, grape tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, black olives, mozzarella, provolone, salami, and pepperoncini.
- Drizzle half of the Zesty Italian Dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Taste and adjust with more dressing as needed.
- Sprinkle with grated parmesan and fresh herbs if using. Chill for at least 1 hour for flavors to meld.
Each serving contains approximately 272 calories, along with 31g of carbohydrates, 14g of protein, and 10g of fat. It’s a satisfying choice for your easy lunch recipes. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and cooking time of 7 minutes, this dish offers a quick yet delightful option for busy days.
Ditalini Pasta with Sausage and Peppers
This dish brings together the rich tastes of ditalini sausage peppers with the fresh crunch of bell peppers and onions. It’s a meal that hits the spot for those craving hearty pasta and Italian flavors. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 16 oz Italian pork sausage links
- 12 oz ditalini pasta
- 10 fl. oz tomato sauce
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 oz peas
- 2 oz grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning blend
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, brown the Italian pork sausage links over medium heat. Ensure they are cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until the vegetables are tender, roughly 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, peas, and cooked ditalini pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together and heat until warmed through.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
This dish serves four and takes about 25-35 minutes to make, perfect for busy evenings. Each serving has around 730 calories, with 71g of carbs, 35g of fat, and 37g of protein. It’s a filling meal that pairs well with a side salad for a complete dinner.
Ditalini Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Try this creamy mushroom ditalini for the ultimate comfort food. It combines earthy mushrooms with a rich sauce. This dish is easy to make and fills you up with wholesome goodness.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups ditalini pasta
- 3 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 medium shallots, chopped
- 1 package (8 oz) cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 package (8 oz) fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 3 cups milk
- 1 cup Extra-Sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- â…” cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Grana Padano cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the ditalini pasta until al dente, following package instructions.
- In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and shallots, sauté until soft.
- Add red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and sliced cremini mushrooms to the skillet, cooking until mushrooms are tender.
- Stir in the fresh thyme, spinach, and flour for a few minutes, allowing the flour to soak up the flavor.
- Pour in the milk, whisking until a creamy sauce forms. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine the pasta with the mushroom sauce, mixing well to coat.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with panko bread crumbs, and sprinkle with Grana Padano cheese.
- Broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes until the top is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
This recipe makes about 8 servings. It takes 1 hour and 15 minutes to prepare and cook. Each serving has 655 kcal, 47g carbs, 22g protein, and 42g fat, including 19g saturated fat. It also has 102mg of cholesterol and 672mg of sodium per serving. You can store it in the fridge for up to three to four days. Enjoy a comforting dish full of flavor!
Ditalini Pasta and Bean Soup
Warm up with a hearty bowl of ditalini pasta and bean soup, perfect for chilly evenings. This dish satisfies your hunger and is a nutritious vegetarian option. It has cannellini beans, chickpeas, garlic, tomatoes, and ditalini pasta. Each spoonful brings rich flavors. Simmered in a robust broth, it goes great with crusty Italian bread, making it a delightful family meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cannellini beans, and chickpeas. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the ditalini pasta, dried basil, and dried oregano. Reduce heat to simmer.
- Cook for approximately 15 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
This ditalini soup recipe is a comforting and quick vegetarian meal, ready in under 50 minutes.
Ditalini Pasta with Pesto
Need a quick and tasty dish? Try this pesto ditalini recipe. It takes less than 20 minutes and only a few ingredients. You’ll get a meal full of flavor with tender pasta, fresh basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Let’s start cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ditalini pasta
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the ditalini pasta until it’s al dente. Then, drain and set it aside.
- In a big bowl, mix the cooked pasta with basil pesto. Make sure the pasta is well coated.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and gently mix them in.
- Serve the pasta warm or keep it in the fridge for a cool meal. Before serving, add Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
This pesto ditalini dish is perfect for weeknights or gatherings with friends. It makes eight servings, ideal for family dinners or potlucks. Quick pasta recipes like this can turn into delicious meals that everyone loves. Remember, the best part is enjoying the time with your loved ones over a great meal!
Ditalini Pasta with Spinach and Ricotta
This spinach ricotta ditalini adds a new twist to your meals. It’s packed with spinach and creamy ricotta. This recipe is quick, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 300g uncooked ditalini pasta
- 1 lb ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 10 oz thawed frozen chopped spinach
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp dried basil
- 1/8 tsp crushed red pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the ditalini pasta until al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain it well.
- In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, garlic, egg, spinach, nutmeg, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, red pepper, and dried basil.
- Layer the baking dish with marinara sauce, half the pasta, the spinach-ricotta mix, and half the mozzarella cheese.
- Add another layer of marinara sauce, the rest of the pasta, and top with the remaining marinara and mozzarella.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden on top.
- You can make this dish a day ahead. Just cover it and refrigerate. Reheat it before serving. You can also freeze leftovers for easy dinners later.
The Spinach Ricotta Pasta Bake is a hit, with a 4.88 out of 5 rating. It’s loved for its delicious fava beans, adding extra texture.
Ditalini Pasta with Lemon and Shrimp
Lemon shrimp ditalini is a fresh and zesty dish that brightens any meal. It features shrimp cooked to perfection with a burst of lemon. This recipe is perfect for light summer dishes, thanks to its quick prep and great taste.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz uncooked ditalini pasta
- 1 lb large, peeled and deveined shrimp, cut in half
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- ½ cup frozen peas
- ¼ cup shredded spinach leaves
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ditalini pasta for 9 minutes or until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes until they turn pink. Incorporate the cherry tomatoes, celery, and zucchini, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.
- Toss in the frozen peas, shredded spinach, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- In a separate bowl, combine the mayo, lemon juice, and fresh dill. Mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
- Combine the cooked ditalini pasta with the shrimp mixture and pour the dressing over everything. Toss to ensure an even coating.
- Refrigerate the dish for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld, or serve immediately for a delightful, fresh experience.
This dish is a delightful way to enjoy summer’s bounty. It serves 12 and is perfect for warm weather dining. Share it with friends and family to enjoy this refreshing seafood pasta together.
Ditalini Pasta with Roasted Vegetables
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this colorful dish. It’s perfect for those looking for a flavorful and healthy meal. This recipe is easy to make and ideal for vegetarians.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. ditalini pasta or your choice of small pasta
- 2 zucchinis, diced small
- ½ lb. chopped asparagus
- 1 cup of peas
- 6 to 8 cherry tomatoes, quartered
- ¾ cup grated pecorino romano (or Parmigiano Reggiano), plus extra for garnishing
- 2 garlic cloves, grated
- 1 heaping tablespoon of butter
- 1 cup good breadcrumbs
- Olive oil for lining
- Basil and parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a skillet, sauté garlic in butter until fragrant, then add diced zucchinis, chopped asparagus, peas, and cherry tomatoes. Cook until tender.
- Combine the sautéed vegetables with cooked ditalini pasta in a large bowl. Add grated cheese, stirring to mix well.
- In a 9-inch round bowl, line with olive oil and sprinkle some breadcrumb mix evenly.
- Transfer the pasta and vegetable mixture into the bowl and top with remaining breadcrumbs and cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Allow to rest for 15 minutes before unmolding onto a platter.
- Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, and additional grated cheese. Enjoy your delicious roasted vegetable ditalini!
This meal serves 8, with about 247 calories per serving. It also has 31g of carbs and 7g of protein. You’ll enjoy a mix of flavors and get a boost of vitamins A and C. It’s a great dish to impress your guests.
Ditalini Pasta with Bolognese Sauce
Prepare for a hearty meal with bolognese ditalini, a classic Italian dish. It’s a comforting twist on traditional pasta, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe makes 6-8 servings and combines ground beef, tomatoes, and herbs for a rich sauce. The cooking time is about 30 minutes, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner.
The secret to this sauce is simple: lean ground beef, tomato sauce, and beef broth create a hearty base. Dried basil and oregano add depth. Ditalini pasta cooks in the sauce, making each bite a protein-rich delight. Top it off with Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lean ground beef | 1 lb |
| Yellow onion, finely chopped | 1 |
| Diced carrots | 2 medium |
| Diced celery | 3 ribs |
| Minced garlic | 3 cloves |
| Tomato sauce | 3 (8 oz) cans |
| Beef broth | 5 (14.5 oz) cans |
| Petite diced tomatoes | 1 (14.5 oz) can |
| Water | ½ cup |
| Granulated sugar | 2 teaspoons |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Ditalini pasta | 8 oz |
| Dark red kidney beans | 1 (15 oz) can |
| Cannellini beans | 1 (15 oz) can |
| Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Parmesan cheese, freshly grated | for serving |
| Kosher salt and black pepper | to taste |
This dish is a true Italian classic, full of flavors and textures. It’s perfect for bringing your family together. Every spoonful is a taste of comfort and satisfaction.
You’ll Also Love
If you love ditalini pasta, you’ll enjoy trying other pasta dishes too. Cavatappi’s spiral shape is great for creamy sauces. Farfalle’s bowtie design adds a fun touch to meals. Orzo pasta is quick to make, taking under 20 minutes, and goes well with salads or broths.
Explore more pasta recipes with unique ingredients and techniques. Baked Feta Pasta with Chickpeas combines viral recipes into one tasty dish. Shrimp and Roasted Fennel Ditalini is low in calories but full of flavor. For soup lovers, try Lentils and Ditalini Pasta Soup, where the pasta soaks up the flavorful broth.
Don’t just stick to ditalini; try Pasta Fagioli, a classic since 1949, for a satisfying meal. Or go for Creamy Ditalini Pasta, an easy yet delicious option. These variations on ditalini will surely become new favorites for your dinner table.
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FAQ
What is ditalini pasta?
Ditalini pasta is a small, tube-like shape. It’s great for soups and salads. It’s versatile, working well with many sauces and ingredients.
How long does it take to cook ditalini pasta?
Ditalini pasta cooks fast, usually in under 10 minutes. This makes it perfect for quick meals on busy nights.
Can I use ditalini pasta in salads?
Yes! Ditalini pasta salads are refreshing and simple to make. Just combine cooked ditalini with your favorite veggies and dressing for a tasty, cold dish.
What are some easy sauces to pair with ditalini?
Choose quick and tasty sauces! Ditalini goes well with tomato sauce, creamy mushroom sauce, or basil pesto. These sauces boost the pasta’s flavor without adding complexity to your cooking.
Is ditalini pasta suitable for vegetarian dishes?
Definitely! Ditalini is great for vegetarian meals. Combine it with spinach, ricotta, and fresh veggies for a nutritious, fulfilling dish.
How can I make ditalini pasta more exciting?
Be creative! Add seasonal veggies, proteins like shrimp or sausage, or mix in various sauces. Your imagination is the only limit for making ditalini dishes exciting!
Can I prepare ditalini pasta dishes in advance?
Yes, many ditalini recipes can be made ahead! Prepare dishes like pasta salad or soups early and keep them in the fridge. This makes dinner easy on busy days.
What are some health benefits of eating ditalini pasta?
Ditalini pasta is a healthy choice because it’s low in fat. Pair it with nutrient-rich ingredients like veggies, beans, and lean proteins for a balanced meal.
Where can I buy ditalini pasta?
You can find ditalini pasta at most grocery stores in the pasta aisle. It’s also available online at places like Amazon or specialty shops focused on Italian ingredients.
