Pin It 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.
I enjoy preparing this dish when I want a quick yet flavorful meal that blends Japanese and Italian influences effortlessly.
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 It This dish often brings my family together as we share stories over hearty bites and flavorful aromas.
Notes
Substitute ditalini with small pasta shapes like elbows or orecchiette. For 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 It Enjoy this creamy miso ditalini as a quick comforting meal that merges flavors beautifully.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other pasta shapes?
Yes, small pasta like elbows or orecchiette work well to hold the creamy sauce evenly.
- → How can I make it vegan?
Substitute butter and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives to maintain creaminess without dairy.
- → What adds the umami flavor?
White miso paste combined with soy sauce delivers rich umami depth to the sauce.
- → Can I add vegetables?
Sautéed mushrooms or wilted spinach make excellent additions for extra texture and nutrition.
- → What is the best way to finish the dish?
Drizzling toasted sesame oil and scattering toasted sesame seeds and scallions enhances aroma and flavor.