Nothing quite proves a point faster than the comfort that hangs in the air with a wholesome ditalini pasta recipe. If you agree with me that pasta is the food of all bread and butter- simple yet filling- then you are on board with me in using ditalini pasta. This small, tubular pasta is ideal for soups, casseroles, and cream-based recipes. In this article, we discuss a very warm, comforting recipe for ditalini pasta that will impress your family and guests.
Why Ditalini Pasta?
Before getting straight to the recipe, let us discuss the suspension of ditalini pasta in such meals. Simply put, it is small and easy to use in the cooking pot and in blending sauces, vegetables, and meat. And it is a solid pasta choice that maintains texture well in soups or casseroles.
Furthermore, ditalini pasta recipe is something Italian very well. A classic example includes pasta e Fagioli, pasta, and bean soup. Then it goes well with creamy-cheesy sauce that lovingly coats the hollow center, giving an explosion of fun in every chew.
Ingredients for the Soul-Warming Ditalini Pasta Dish
To prepare this rich soul-food pasta, here are the ingredients needed:
- 1 pound ditalini pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 lb Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes, drained
- One cup of tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for the brave)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of chopped baby spinach
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Cooking Directions, Step by Step
Now everything is in place for the preparation of this delicious dish. Just follow these simple steps and have a mesmeric dinner for yourself.
Step 1: Cook Ditalini Pasta
To begin, bring a huge pot of salty water to a rolling boil. Add the ditalini pasta recipe and cook until al dente according to the instructions given on the packaging. Drain the pasta and set it aside. You may toss it lightly in some olive oil to prevent sticking if you like.
Step 2: Make the Flavour-Bursting Base
Meanwhile, in a large skillet set over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and sauté until translucent for about 3 minutes. Next, stir the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds to release the aroma.
Step 3: Crumble and Cook the Sausage
Now, add the Italian crumbled sausage to the skillet. Sauté, breaking up the sausage with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off excess fat if needed.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes And Spices
After preparing the sausage, it has been discovered that the next ingredients to add include the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. The final mixture is to remain cooking for about 10 minutes as it melds well together.
Step 5: Add Creamy Goodness
At this moment, the heat should be lowered, and heavy sweet cream poured in. Stir thoroughly to benefit the whole mixture, making it substantially creamy. Again, this sauce leaves to simmer for about 5 minutes longer.
Step 6: Combine All Ingredients
Now, add the cooked ditalini pasta recipe into the skillet, stirring gently until every piece is coated with the flavorful sauce. Then, toss in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts slightly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, take the skillet from the heat and garnish it with some fresh basil leaves and more Parmesan cheese. Serve the pasta hot, accompanied by crusty bread or light salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Serving the Best Ditalini Pasta
If you want your dish to turn out just right every time, consider these handy tips:
Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs, quality cheese and ripe tomatoes will go a long way toward enhancing the flavor of your dish.
Don’t Overboil The Pasta – Pasta needs to be cooked al dente to get that ideal texture to where it will not go to mush once mixed with the sauce afterward.
Modify Chop Alertness: Omit the crushed red pepper flakes if you like a mild dish; add a pinch more if heat is your thing!
Experiment with Proteins – Not a sausage enthusiast? Substitute ground beef or turkey or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Let the Sauce Simmer: A good simmer brings together flavors and makes them harmonious and rich in taste.
Why This Recipe is Impeccable for Any Occasion
Not only is this very tasty ditalini pasta recipe made with ditalini, but it is suitable for any occasion: as if you were going to prepare it for a weeknight meal, bonuses for family gatherings, or something to warm your insides on a chilly evening.
Goes well with storage! Leftover contents can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you reheat it, splash a little cream or broth to restore the creaminess.
Conclusion: A Comforting Dish Worth Making.
This dish is a simple and truly soul-soothing ditalini pasta recipe and a comforting dish for anyone who loves the meal-eating flavor. Its rich, creamy tomato sauce with seasonings makes this dish sure to soon become a comfort food favorite in your home.
