Introduction
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Pastina Soup, a delightful dish that’s as nourishing as it is simple. This Italian-inspired soup features tiny pasta, known as pastina, swimming in a savory broth, often enriched with vegetables and sometimes even egg or cheese. It’s a go-to recipe for those chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this soup is perfect for families, kids, or anyone craving a taste of home. Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe that will have you feeling cozy in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comforting and Nourishing: A warm bowl of soup that’s great for the soul, especially when you’re feeling under the weather.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
- Kid-Friendly: The small pasta is fun for kids to eat, making it a hit at the dinner table.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pot!
Ingredients List
- ✔️ 🔹 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- ✔️ 🔹 1 cup pastina (tiny pasta)
- ✔️ 🔹 1 medium carrot, diced
- ✔️ 🔹 1 celery stalk, diced
- ✔️ 🔹 1 small onion, diced
- ✔️ 🔹 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ✔️ 🔹 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ✔️ 🔹 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- ✔️ 🔹 Salt and pepper, to taste
- ✔️ 🔹 Optional toppings: grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or a squeeze of lemon juice
Note: For precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card on cookingforhome.com.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook Aromatics: Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Broth
- Pour in Broth: Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot and bring it to a boil.
- Season: Stir in the dried thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook the Pastina
- Add Pastina: Once the broth is boiling, add the pastina to the pot. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.
4. Adjust and Serve
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of cream or milk at this stage.
- Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with optional grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.
Pro Tip: For a heartier version, add cooked chicken or beans for extra protein!
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, peas, or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pastina or a similar small gluten-free pasta.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for a unique flavor profile.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Pastina Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. However, the pastina may absorb some of the broth upon thawing, so you may need to add a little extra broth when reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup if needed.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While pastina is traditional, you can substitute with any small pasta like orzo or ditalini.
Is this soup healthy?
Absolutely! It’s packed with vegetables and can be made with low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth and omit any meat. You can also add more vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
This Pastina Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your thoughts and any variations you make in the comments below! For more delicious recipes, visit cookingforhome.com and follow us on Facebook and Pinterest for more culinary inspiration. Enjoy your cozy bowl of soup! 🍲🥕✨
Print
Pastina Soup Recipe
This comforting Pastina Soup is a classic Italian dish, featuring tiny pasta and a flavorful broth, perfect for cozy nights or when you’re feeling under the weather.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup pastina (tiny pasta)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 medium carrots (diced)
- 2 celery stalks (diced)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and add the dried thyme and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the pastina and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Additional Tips: For a creamier soup, you can stir in a splash of cream or milk just before serving.
- Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pastina may absorb some broth, so you may need to add a little water or broth when reheating.
- Freezer-Friendly: This soup can be frozen, but the pastina may become mushy upon thawing. It’s best to freeze the broth and add freshly cooked pastina when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Soup
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Pastina Soup Recipe
