Pin this A fusion pasta dish combining the umami richness of miso with creamy sauce and the comforting bite of ditalini, finished with scallions and toasted sesame seeds.
This dish quickly became a family favorite due to its unique blend of Japanese and Italian flavors and quick preparation time.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g ditalini pasta, salt for pasta water
- Sauce: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 tablespoon ginger finely grated, 2 tablespoons white miso paste, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 200 ml heavy cream, 60 ml reserved pasta water
- Finish & Garnish: 3 scallions thinly sliced, 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil, 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds, freshly ground black pepper to taste, optional chili flakes for heat
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ditalini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 60 ml (¼ cup) of pasta water then drain.
- Step 2:
- While pasta cooks melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Stir in miso paste and soy sauce incorporating well.
- Step 4:
- Pour in heavy cream stirring until smooth and slightly thickened about 2 3 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed.
- Step 6:
- Add cooked ditalini to the skillet tossing to coat evenly in the creamy miso sauce.
- Step 7:
- Remove from heat. Drizzle with sesame oil and toss again.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately garnished with scallions toasted sesame seeds and black pepper. Add chili flakes if desired.
Pin this Sharing this dish reminds me of the joy of blending cultures at the family table on busy weeknights.
Notes
Substitute ditalini with small pasta shapes like elbows or orecchiette For a vegan version use plant-based butter and cream Add sautéed mushrooms or wilted spinach for extra vegetables Pairs well with crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or sake
Required Tools
Large pot Skillet Colander Measuring cups and spoons Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) dairy soy and sesame Check all labels for hidden allergens if unsure
Pin this This Japanese-inspired creamy miso ditalini is a perfect quick and flavorful meal that brings comfort with a unique fusion twist.
Recipe Questions
- → What pasta works as a substitute for ditalini?
Small pasta shapes like elbows, or orecchiette, provide a similar texture and work well with the creamy sauce.
- → Can this dish be made vegan?
Yes, by replacing butter with plant-based alternatives and using vegan cream, you can enjoy a vegan-friendly version.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
Reserve some pasta water and add it gradually to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
- → What garnishes enhance the final dish?
Thinly sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil add flavor and texture contrasts.
- → How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Sautéed mushrooms or wilted spinach are excellent additions that complement the creamy miso sauce.