Pastina Soup

Introduction

Pastina Soup is a comforting, simple, and heartwarming dish that is perfect for any time you need a little comfort. This classic Italian soup is made with tiny pasta (pastina) and a light, flavorful broth that is both soothing and satisfying. With a few basic ingredients, such as chicken broth, vegetables, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this soup is ideal for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather.

I first made this soup when I was looking for something cozy and nourishing, and it quickly became a go-to favorite. The delicate pastina pasta absorbs the flavors of the broth beautifully, and the warm soup is perfect for lifting your spirits. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing it with others, it’s a dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal.

It’s a childhood favorite for many and is often enjoyed as a nourishing meal for both adults and children alike. The best part is how simple it is to make—you can have a bowl of this soothing soup ready in no time, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

Perfect for:

• Cold weather
• Family dinners
• When you’re feeling under the weather
• A quick and easy meal
• Comfort food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Pastina Soup

Here’s why Pastina Soup will become your new favorite:

• Comforting and Soothing: This soup is the epitome of comfort food, with its warm, soothing broth and small, tender pasta that’s perfect for slurping.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this soup is perfect for a fast, weeknight meal or a cozy lunch.
• Customizable: You can add vegetables, herbs, or even a poached egg to make it your own.
• Light Yet Satisfying: The broth is light, but the pastina makes it hearty and filling without being heavy.
• Kid-Friendly: This simple, mild soup is a great option for young eaters, as it’s easy to digest and full of flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbs: 24g, Fat: 4g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Pastina Soup:

• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1 cup pastina (tiny pasta)
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (optional)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Pastina: The tiny pasta is the star of this soup, absorbing the broth and giving the soup its signature texture. You can use any small pasta if you can’t find pastina.
• Chicken Broth: The broth is the foundation of the soup’s flavor. Using a high-quality broth or stock makes all the difference in the taste.
• Carrots, Celery, and Onion: These classic aromatics bring depth of flavor to the soup base, making it savory and comforting.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a creamy, salty finish to the soup, making it even more delicious.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Pastina Soup:

Prepare the Soup:

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
3. Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the broth simmer for 10 minutes to allow the vegetables to cook through and the flavors to meld.
4. Add the Pastina: Stir in the pastina and cook according to the package directions, usually about 5-7 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
5. Season: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Add the fresh thyme if using, and stir to combine.
6. Finish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.

How to Serve Pastina Soup

Pastina Soup is perfect for serving on its own or with a few additional sides:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
• As a Side Dish: Serve as a side dish with a main course, such as grilled chicken or a simple salad.
• With a Poached Egg: Add a poached egg to each bowl for extra richness and protein.

Additional Tips for Pastina Soup

Here are some tips to ensure your Pastina Soup is perfect every time:

• Use Homemade Broth: If you have homemade chicken or vegetable broth, it will elevate the flavor of the soup. Otherwise, opt for a high-quality store-bought version.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like peas, spinach, or zucchini to make the soup even heartier.
• Adjust the Pasta: If you can’t find pastina, try using other small pasta like orzo or acini di pepe.
• Thicken the Soup: For a thicker soup, cook the pastina a bit longer so it absorbs more of the broth.
• Garnish: Don’t skip the Parmesan or fresh parsley—it adds a nice finishing touch that enhances the flavor.
• Use Pastina Sparingly: Pastina expands as it cooks, so add just enough to make the soup hearty, but not too much to make it overly starchy.
• Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add cooked chicken, turkey, or beans to the soup.
• Low and Slow: Cook the soup over low heat for a longer period to develop a deeper flavor.
• Serve with Bread: Pair your Pastina Soup with a slice of toasted bread or

Recipe Variations for Pastina Soup

Here are 5 variations you can try for Pastina Soup:

• Pastina Soup with Spinach: Add a handful of spinach to the soup towards the end of cooking for a boost of greens.
• Pastina Soup with Lemon: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors of the soup.
• Pastina Soup with Chicken: Add shredded cooked chicken to the soup to make it more filling and protein-rich.
• Pastina Soup with Garlic: Sauté minced garlic with the vegetables for a punch of flavor.
• Spicy Pastina Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a little heat.

Freezing and Storage for Pastina Soup

• Freezing: This soup can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the pasta. Store the soup base in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, heat the soup and cook the pasta separately, then combine.
• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.

Special Equipment for Pastina Soup

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Pastina Soup easier:

• Large Pot: A large soup pot or Dutch oven will be needed to cook the soup.
• Wooden Spoon: A wooden spoon is great for stirring the vegetables and broth.
• Measuring Spoons: Use these to measure your seasonings and thyme.
• Soup Ladle: A ladle helps to serve the soup into bowls without making a mess.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – To accurately measure ingredients like seasonings or pasta.
• Vegetable Peeler – To peel any vegetables for the soup base (if applicable).
• Garlic Press – If you’re adding fresh garlic to the soup.
• Slotted Spoon – For skimming impurities off the broth.
• Grater – For adding grated cheese (like Parmesan) on top of the soup.

Frequently Asked Questions for Pastina Soup

1. Can I make this soup without pastina?
   Yes, you can use any small pasta, like orzo or acini di pepe, as a substitute for pastina.
2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
   Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the Parmesan or use a vegetarian alternative.
3. How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
   Cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup just before serving, or undercook the pasta slightly so it doesn’t absorb too much of the broth.
4. Can I make this soup in advance?
   Yes, this soup keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days. The flavors actually improve as it sits.

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Conclusion

Pastina Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering warmth and nourishment with minimal effort. It’s a simple, flavorful soup that brings a sense of comfort and home to any meal. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, craving a cozy lunch, or just in the mood for something light yet filling, this soup is sure to hit the spot. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for the whole family to enjoy.

This recipe is as soothing as it is delicious, making it ideal for everything from casual family meals to moments when you need a bit of comfort. Whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner, Pastina Soup will bring a smile to everyone’s face.

I’d love to see how your Pastina Soup turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!