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.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 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.