Cooking is often more than just preparing food; it’s about creating experiences in your kitchen and sharing them with your loved ones. Enter the delightful 7-Ingredient Ditalini with Peas and Parmesan – a simple yet delectable dish that captures the essence of comfort food. With just seven easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe proves that you don’t need a long list to create something truly special. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this dish is easy to navigate and guaranteed to impress.
Why We Love This 7-Ingredient Ditalini with Peas and Parmesan Recipe
You might be wondering what exactly sets this 7-Ingredient Ditalini with Peas and Parmesan apart from other pasta recipes. The answer lies in its balance of flavors and the sheer ease with which it can be prepared. With minimal ingredients, it allows the rich taste of Parmesan cheese and the sweetness of peas to shine through. Not only is this dish easy on the wallet and the schedule, but it’s also comforting and satisfying.
The creaminess delivered by the Parmesan, combined with the delicate texture of the ditalini pasta and the goodness of peas, makes for a perfect bowl of delightful goodness. Additionally, this recipe is versatile; whether you are making a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, it fits every occasion. It’s heartwarming yet sophisticated, striking the right chord for any meal.
Ingredients about 7-Ingredient Ditalini with Peas and Parmesan
To create this delicious dish, you’ll need just the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces Ditalini pasta
- 1 cup Frozen peas (or fresh if preferred)
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
These ingredients combine to bring out a beautiful medley of flavors while remaining wholesome and easy to source. Whether shopping in-store or online, you’re likely to find these items without breaking a sweat.
How to Make 7-Ingredient Ditalini with Peas and Parmesan Directions
Creating this dish is as delightful as eating it. Follow these simple steps to bring your 7-Ingredient Ditalini with Peas and Parmesan to life:
- Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once it’s boiling, add the ditalini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. This usually takes around 7-9 minutes, but check the package for specific timing.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, set aside a small cup (about ½ cup) of the pasta water. This water will come in handy later if you need to adjust the creaminess of your dish.
- Sauté Garlic: In a separate skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the minced garlic. Sauté this mix for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but keep a careful eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
- Add Peas: Now it’s time to incorporate the peas. Add them to the skillet and stir to coat them in the oil and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to thaw and soften slightly. If you’re using fresh peas, you may need a minute or two longer.
- Combine Ingredients: Drain the cooked ditalini and toss it into the skillet with the peas and garlic. This is where the magic begins! Ensure that you’re tossing them together, letting all the flavors meld beautifully.
- Add Parmesan and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well until the cheese becomes melty and creamy. If you find that the dish seems a little dry, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Taste your creation and season with salt and black pepper accordingly.
- Serve: Once everything is well combined and creamy, your dish is ready to serve!
How to Serve 7-Ingredient Ditalini with Peas and Parmesan
Presenting your dish beautifully can elevate the entire dining experience. Once you’ve plated your 7-Ingredient Ditalini with Peas and Parmesan, consider garnishing it with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a dash of freshly cracked black pepper for that added flair.
For a delightful meal, pair this pasta with a side of crusty bread or a light salad. A simple arugula or mixed green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette balances well with the richness of the pasta. This dish also shines as a standalone meal, perfect for lunch or dinner, and leftovers can be enjoyed throughout the week!
Tips for Presentation
- Color Contrast: A pinch of chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
- Serving Temperature: Serve the pasta hot for maximum enjoyment, as the flavors will be more pronounced and the cheese will be wonderfully creamy.
Expert Tips: 7-Ingredient Ditalini with Peas and Parmesan
To make this dish even more delightful, consider these expert tips:
- Perfect Pasta Cooking: Always cook pasta in well-salted water to enhance flavor. Salting your water transforms the entire dish, ensuring that the pasta itself adds to the overall taste.
- Quality Ingredients: The quality of the ingredients matters! Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese can dramatically improve the overall taste.
- Timing is Everything: Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing. Garlic can turn bitter if burned, so you want it just golden and fragrant.
- Don’t Skip Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is an essential element that helps bind the dish and elevate its creaminess, so always reserve some!
- Enhance Flavor: If you enjoy additional zest, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. It can brighten up the entire dish!
How to Store 7-Ingredient Ditalini with Peas and Parmesan
Should you find yourself with leftovers, storing your delicious ditalini dish is straightforward. Allow the pasta to cool completely before putting it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days.
If you want to store it for a longer duration, consider freezing it. Place your ditalini in a freezer-safe container, ensuring an airtight seal. When ready to enjoy again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of pasta water to bring back that creamy texture.
Variation of 7-Ingredient Ditalini with Peas and Parmesan
The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment and make it your own:
- Add Protein: Consider folding in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to amp up the nutritional value and create a heartier meal.
- Vegetable Medley: Get creative by adding other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or even artichokes for a colorful, nutrient-rich twist.
- Herb Infusion: Try tossed fresh herbs like dill or thyme for added flavor complexity.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy some heat, sprinkle a bit of red chili flakes during cooking, or serve a spicy sauce on the side.
- Creamy Version: For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche to the mix.
FAQ
What should I serve with 7-Ingredient Ditalini with Peas and Parmesan?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some crusty bread. You might also consider a side of roasted vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.
Can I make 7-Ingredient Ditalini with Peas and Parmesan ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pasta can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a great meal prep option.
How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
This recipe is already vegetarian, simply ensuring that you use vegetarian Parmesan or a suitable cheese alternative will keep it in line!
What kind of peas should I use?
You can choose either frozen or fresh peas for this recipe. Frozen peas are convenient and quick to prepare, while fresh peas add a bit more texture.
Can I modify the recipe to be dairy-free?
Yes! You can replace the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Ditalini with Peas and Parmesan
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 8 ounces Ditalini pasta
- 1 cup Frozen peas Fresh peas can be used if preferred
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Use high-quality cheese for best results
- 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil Quality oil enhances flavor
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Be careful not to burn while cooking
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil a pot of salted water and add the ditalini pasta. Cook according to package instructions for 7-9 minutes until al dente.
- Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
Cooking Garlic and Peas
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add peas to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the oil and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they thaw and soften.
Combining Ingredients
- Drain the cooked ditalini and add it to the skillet. Toss to combine with peas and garlic.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese is melty and creamy. If necessary, add reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste before serving.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and black pepper. Pair with a light salad or crusty bread.
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