Pin It A comforting, creamy pasta dish featuring tender zucchini, ditalini pasta, and a touch of Parmesan—all made in a single pot for easy cleanup.
This dish quickly became a weeknight favorite for its simplicity and comforting flavors.
Ingredients
- Pasta & Vegetables: 250 g (9 oz) ditalini pasta, 2 medium zucchini, diced, 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Liquids: 750 ml (3 cups) vegetable broth, 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream
- Dairy & Cheese: 40 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving, 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Spices & Herbs: 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2 3 minutes until translucent.
- Step 2:
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add the diced zucchini and cook for 3 4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Step 4:
- Pour in the ditalini pasta and vegetable broth. Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Step 5:
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 8 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 6:
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook, uncovered, for 2 3 minutes more until the sauce is creamy and thickened.
- Step 7:
- Adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Pin It This recipe always brings my family together around the table with smiles and full plates.
Notes
For extra protein, add cooked cannellini beans or shredded rotisserie chicken. A sprinkle of lemon zest before serving brightens the dish. Wine pairing: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce.
Required Tools
Large pot or Dutch oven, cutting board and knife, wooden spoon, measuring cups and spoons, cheese grater
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), milk (dairy), and Parmesan cheese (milk). If using store bought broth or Parmesan, check labels for possible allergens.
Pin It This easy one pot meal is perfect for busy nights and will quickly become a family favorite.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other pasta shapes instead of ditalini?
Yes, small shells or elbow macaroni work well as substitutes, maintaining similar cooking times and texture.
- → How can I add protein to this dish?
Incorporate cooked cannellini beans or shredded rotisserie chicken to boost protein content without altering the creamy texture.
- → What herbs complement the flavors here?
Dried thyme enhances the savory notes, while fresh parsley adds a light, herbaceous garnish.
- → Can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Replace heavy cream and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth to keep it dairy-free.
- → What wine pairs best with this meal?
A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc nicely balances the creamy sauce and fresh zucchini flavors.
- → How do I achieve the creamy texture without curdling?
Stir in the cream and cheese off the heat or on low heat, cooking gently to prevent separation and maintain smoothness.