Pin A comforting, creamy pasta dish featuring tender zucchini, ditalini pasta, and a touch of Parmesan—all made in a single pot for easy cleanup.
This recipe quickly became a weeknight favorite due to its simplicity and delicious flavors.
Ingredients
- Ditalini pasta: 250 g (9 oz)
- Zucchini: 2 medium, diced
- Yellow onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Vegetable broth: 750 ml (3 cups)
- Heavy cream: 120 ml (1/2 cup)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 40 g (1/2 cup), plus extra for serving
- Unsalted butter: 1 tbsp
- Dried thyme: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tbsp (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 23 minutes until translucent.
- Step 2:
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add the diced zucchini and cook for 34 minutes until slightly softened.
- Step 4:
- Pour in the ditalini pasta and vegetable broth. Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Step 5:
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 810 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 6:
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook, uncovered, for 23 minutes more until the sauce is creamy and thickened.
- Step 7:
- Adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Pin This dish always brings the family together around the table, enjoying simple, hearty flavors.
Notes
For extra protein add cooked cannellini beans or shredded rotisserie chicken not vegetarian. Swap ditalini for small shells or elbow macaroni if desired. A sprinkle of lemon zest before serving brightens the dish. Wine pairing A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce.
Required Tools
Large pot or Dutch oven. Cutting board and knife. Wooden spoon. Measuring cups and spoons. Cheese grater.
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) milk (dairy) and Parmesan cheese (milk). If using store-bought broth or Parmesan check labels for possible allergens.
Pin This creamy zucchini ditalini is a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any weeknight.