Description
This recipe for Easy Ditalini Pasta is a simple, comforting, and versatile dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Ditalini, with its small, thimble-like shape, is excellent at capturing flavors and is wonderful in both light and hearty sauces. This version uses basic ingredients you likely already have, making it a go-to meal for busy days. It’s easily customizable, allowing you to add vegetables, meats, or cheeses to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
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Pasta:
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1 pound ditalini pasta (about 4 cups dry)
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Sauce:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
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1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon dried basil
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1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
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1 teaspoon sugar (optional to cut acidity)
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Optional Add-Ins:
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
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1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
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1/2 cup cooked Italian sausage, crumbled
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1 cup spinach or other greens, chopped
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1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
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1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
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For Serving:
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Additional grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh basil leaves
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Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes).
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Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
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Add Tomatoes and Season: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. If the sauce is too acidic, add 1 teaspoon sugar.
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Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the cooked pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Add the pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you get your desired consistency.
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Add Optional Ingredients (if using): Stir in any optional add-ins such as Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, cooked sausage, spinach, or peas. Cook for a few more minutes, until everything is heated through and the spinach is wilted.
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Serve: Serve the Easy Ditalini Pasta immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Notes
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Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save some of the pasta cooking water! It’s great for adjusting the sauce’s consistency and helps it adhere better to the pasta.
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Customization: This recipe is very adaptable. Feel free to use different types of canned tomatoes (diced, whole, etc), add different vegetables or proteins, or experiment with different cheeses.
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Garlic: Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference.
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Spice Level: Adjust or omit the red pepper flakes for a mild sauce or a spicier kick.
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Sauce Thickness: For a richer sauce, let it simmer longer and/or use tomato paste to thicken.
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Make-Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, cook the pasta, reheat the sauce, and combine.
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Serving Size: This recipe serves four people comfortably.
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Doubling: This recipe is easily doubled or tripled to serve larger groups.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 2-2.5 cups
- Calories: 450-550
- Sugar: 8-12 grams
- Sodium: 800-1100 mg
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 5-8 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 10-12 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 60-70 grams
- Fiber: 5-7 grams
- Protein: 15-20 grams
- Cholesterol: 10-30 mg (if no sausage or cheese added)
Keywords: Easy Pasta Recipe, Ditalini Pasta, Italian Pasta, Quick Dinner, Weeknight Meal, Tomato Sauce, Pasta with Red Sauce, Vegetarian Pasta, Simple Pasta Recipe