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 served this dish to friends and everyone loved the unique combination of Japanese miso and Italian pasta.
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 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 recipe always brings my family together especially on chilly evenings when comfort food is a must.
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 Enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other pasta shapes instead of ditalini?
Yes, small pasta shapes like elbows or orecchiette work well, holding the creamy miso sauce effectively.
- → How can I make this dish vegan?
Substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use a non-dairy cream alternative such as coconut or cashew cream.
- → What is the purpose of reserved pasta water in the sauce?
Adding reserved pasta water helps loosen and slightly thicken the sauce, creating a silky texture that clings to the pasta.
- → Can I add vegetables to enhance the dish?
Sautéed mushrooms or wilted spinach are excellent additions to introduce more texture and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
- → What garnishes best complement this dish?
Thinly sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil add fresh, nutty notes and visual appeal.
- → Is this dish spicy?
It is mild by default, but chili flakes can be added to introduce a subtle heat without masking the umami flavors.