Save A rich and aromatic pasta dish featuring nutty brown butter, crispy sage, and tender ditalini, perfect for a quick yet elegant meal.
I love making this dish when I want a simple yet impressive meal on the table fast.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g ditalini pasta 2 liters water 1 tbsp kosher salt
- Sauce: 100 g unsalted butter 20 fresh sage leaves 1 small garlic clove, finely minced 50 g grated Parmesan cheese Zest of 1 lemon (optional) Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Garnish: Extra grated Parmesan cheese Lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring 2 liters of water to a boil in a large pot. Add kosher salt and ditalini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain pasta.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks, heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add sage leaves. Continue cooking, swirling the pan, until the butter turns golden brown and the sage leaves become crisp (about 3 to 4 minutes). Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Step 3:
- Remove sage leaves with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel. Add minced garlic to the brown butter and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Add drained ditalini to the skillet with the brown butter and garlic. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.
- Step 5:
- Remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan, black pepper, and lemon zest if using. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately, garnished with crispy sage leaves and extra Parmesan.
Save This recipe always brings my family together around the table for a cozy meal.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic. Substitute pecorino for Parmesan if preferred. Excellent with a glass of dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio. Try adding roasted butternut squash or peas for a heartier meal.
Required Tools
Large pot Large skillet Slotted spoon Grater (for cheese and lemon) Colander
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk (dairy). Ensure Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly if needed. Check all labels for potential allergens.
Save This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress.