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 enjoyed this fusion dish when experimenting with Japanese and Italian flavors in my kitchen, and it quickly became a family favorite for weeknight dinners.
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.
Save This dish brings my family together on busy evenings with its comforting flavors and quick preparation time.
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.
Save This creamy miso ditalini recipe is the perfect quick fusion meal to satisfy your cravings with minimal effort.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → What pasta types work well besides ditalini?
Small shapes like elbows or orecchiette make great substitutes, holding the creamy sauce nicely.
- → How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Sautéed mushrooms or wilted spinach blend seamlessly into the sauce for extra texture and nutrition.
- → What enhances the flavor of the miso sauce?
Garlic, ginger, and soy sauce provide layered umami notes that complement the miso's rich savoriness.
- → Can this be made vegan-friendly?
Yes, swap butter and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives to maintain creaminess without dairy.
- → What garnishes best finish the dish?
Fresh scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sesame oil add brightness, crunch, and aroma.
- → How should I cook the pasta for best results?
Boil salted water and cook pasta al dente, reserving some cooking water to adjust sauce consistency.