Easy Vegan Ditalini Pasta Recipe

Easy Vegan Ditalini Pasta Recipe

Ditalini pasta is a small tube-shaped pasta that’s often used in soups, stews, and creamy one-pot meals. In this recipe, we’re making a vegan version of the classic comfort dish by cooking Ditalini pasta in chicken-less broth, adding creamy non-dairy milk, and finishing it with vegan Parmesan.

The name “Ditalini” comes from the Italian word ditale, which means “small thimble” and that’s exactly what these tiny pasta pieces look like! This type of pasta has roots in Southern Italy and is still a popular choice for hearty family meals.

In this article, you’ll learn how to make this simple yet delicious pasta step-by-step using easy ingredients. You’ll also find useful tips, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions, so you can make the perfect bowl of vegan Ditalini every time.

Details

Servings

3-4

Prep time

10min

Cooking time

15min

Nutrition Facts

4 servings per container


  • Amount Per ServingCalories200
  • % Daily Value *
  • Total Fat 1g 2%
    • Cholesterol 0mg 0%
    • Sodium 5mg 1%
    • Total Carbohydrate 42g 15%
      • Dietary Fiber 2g 8%
      • Sugars 1g
    • Protein 7g 15%

    • Iron 10%
    • Folate 25%
    • Magnesium 8%

    * The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

    Health Notes:

    • A good source of complex carbohydrates for energy.
    • Naturally low in fat and sugar.
    • Provides plant-based protein.
    • Fortified pasta adds essential vitamins like folate and iron.

    Ingredients

    • 2 cups Ditalini pasta

    • 3 to 4 cups chicken-less broth

    • ½ cup non-dairy milk (oat, almond, or soy work great)

    • 1–2 tablespoons minced garlic

    • A drizzle of olive oil

    • ½ cup shredded vegan Parmesan

    • Pepper, to taste

    • Vegan butter (optional but delicious)

    Step-by-Step Instructions

    1. Start with olive oil and garlic

    In a medium pan, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat.
    Add in the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.

    2. Add the Ditalini pasta

    Toss in your Ditalini pasta and stir well so it gets coated with the garlicky oil.
    Let it cook for another minute to slightly toast the pasta.

    3. Pour in the broth

    Add chicken-less broth (start with 3 cups) and bring everything to a boil.
    Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low.

    4. Let it simmer

    Let the pasta simmer in the broth. Stir occasionally.
    If the pasta absorbs too much liquid before it’s fully cooked, just add a bit more broth.

    Tip: You’re not draining the pasta, so keep an eye on the texture.

    5. Add non-dairy milk

    Once your pasta is nearly done, pour in the non-dairy milk.
    Stir everything together and let it simmer until the sauce begins to thicken.

    6. Add vegan butter (optional)

    If you’re using vegan butter, stir in about 2 tablespoons now.
    This step gives the dish a richer, creamier texture.

    7. Melt in the Parmesan

    Turn off the heat and stir in the vegan shredded Parmesan.
    Mix until it melts into the sauce and everything looks creamy and glossy.

    8. Final touch: season with pepper

    Add black pepper to taste.
    Top with a bit more Parmesan and fresh cracked pepper before serving.

    Time to Serve

    Serve your creamy vegan Ditalini pasta hot and fresh.
    This comforting pasta dish is perfect as a main meal or a cozy side.

    Quick Cooking Tips

    • Use a good-quality vegan chicken broth for best flavor.
    • If you love spice, add a pinch of red chili flakes before serving.
    • Leftovers? Reheat with a splash of non-dairy milk to keep it creamy.

    Why This Recipe Works

    • One pot vegan dinner – minimal cleanup!
    • Ditalini pasta cooks directly in broth for full flavor.
    • No draining makes this recipe beginner-friendly.
    • Uses simple pantry ingredients and quick steps.

    Cooking Tools You’ll Need

    1. Large Pot – For boiling ditalini pasta evenly without sticking.
    2. Colander / Strainer – To drain the cooked pasta quickly and keep it from getting mushy.
    3. Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – Gentle stirring to prevent pasta from breaking.
    4. Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board – For chopping vegetables, herbs, or proteins to add into the recipe.
    5. Measuring Cups & Spoons – To ensure accurate portions of pasta, broth, or seasonings.
    6. Mixing Bowl – If you’re making pasta salad or tossing pasta with dressing/sauce.
    7. Saucepan / Stockpot – For preparing tomato sauce, soups, or stews with ditalini.
    8. Ladle – Helpful when serving soups like pasta e fagioli.
    9. Airtight Containers – To store leftovers safely in the fridge or freezer.

    Conclusion about Ditalini Pasta Recipe

    Ditalini pasta is a versatile and comforting dish that fits perfectly into both simple and hearty meals.

    Whether you enjoy it in a warm soup like pasta e fagioli, a refreshing pasta salad, or tossed with a rich sauce, its small tube shape holds flavors beautifully.

    It’s quick to prepare, nutritious, and adaptable to different ingredients making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

    With the right tools and fresh ingredients, you can create a satisfying ditalini pasta recipe that is both wholesome and delicious.

    About Author

    Ethan Caldwell

    Hi, I’m Ethan Caldwell, a professional chef and recipe blogger with a passion for creating simple, flavorful meals. I’ve trained at Le Cordon Bleu and the Culinary Institute of America, earning diplomas in Culinary Arts and International Cuisine. After working in kitchens across Europe and the U.S., I now share my favorite recipes, tips, and cooking hacks on my blog. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cook, I’m here to make cooking fun and approachable.

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