Description
Pastina Soup is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tiny pasta in a savory, clear broth. This classic Italian soup is quick to prepare, making it the perfect light meal or appetizer for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. With its soothing flavors and easy-to-digest ingredients, this heartwarming dish is perfect for all ages and customizable to your taste.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
1 cup pastina pasta (tiny pasta stars or any small pasta)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
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Prepare the Broth Base: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Cook the Pastina: Stir in the pastina pasta and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Be sure to check the pasta’s cooking time on the package, as it may vary slightly.
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Season the Soup: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
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Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
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For added flavor, sauté carrots, celery, or spinach with the onion at the beginning.
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To make the soup creamy, stir in a little milk or cream at the end of cooking.
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If you want to add protein, cooked chicken or beans can be added to the soup.
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Use orzo or small shells if you can’t find pastina. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 5min
- Cook Time: 15min
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
