Pin A rich and aromatic pasta dish featuring nutty brown butter, crispy sage, and tender ditalini, perfect for a quick yet elegant meal.
This recipe has become my go-to when I crave something quick but special. The combination of browned butter and sage is irresistible and always impresses guests.
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.
Pin This dish always brings my family together around the table, enjoying the comforting flavors and each other's company.
Notes
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.
Pin With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a memorable and elegant meal in under half an hour.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I achieve the perfect brown butter for this dish?
Use medium heat and watch constantly as the butter melts and foams. Stir occasionally and remove from heat once it turns golden brown with a nutty aroma to avoid burning.
- → Can I substitute the ditalini pasta with another type?
Yes, small tubular or short pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells work well to hold the sauce.
- → What is the best way to get crispy sage leaves?
Cook sage leaves in the melted butter over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until crispy, then drain on paper towels to remove excess fat.
- → How can I adjust the sauce consistency?
Reserve some pasta water and add gradually to the brown butter while tossing, until the sauce reaches a silky, smooth texture.
- → Is the lemon zest optional and how does it affect flavor?
Lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy lift balancing the richness of brown butter and enhancing overall aroma but can be omitted if preferred.
