Save 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 first tried this recipe on a chilly evening and it quickly became a family favorite thanks to its unique fusion of Japanese and Italian flavors.
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 denti 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 23 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.
Save This meal often brings the family together as we share stories over bowls of this creamy, comforting pasta.
Notes
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
Save This creamy miso ditalini is perfect for weeknight dinners or when entertaining guests seeking something flavorful yet comforting.
Common recipe questions
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce well. Elbows or orecchiette are good substitutes.
- → How can I adjust the sauce consistency?
Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to your preferred creamy texture without diluting the flavor.
- → Can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Yes, replace butter with plant-based alternatives and use a vegan cream substitute for a dairy-free version.
- → What garnishes enhance the finished dish?
Thinly sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil provide fresh, nutty layers in the final presentation.
- → How long does it take to prepare and cook?
The preparation takes about 10 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes of cooking, making it ready in approximately 25 minutes.