Classic Italian Pastina Soup

Ah, Pastina Soup—this dish holds a special place in my heart. There’s something about the simplicity of tiny pasta in a warm, savory broth that immediately brings comfort. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving something cozy, Pastina Soup is the ultimate hug in a bowl. And best of all, it’s ridiculously quick to make! Perfect for busy nights when you need something wholesome and satisfying without too much fuss. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Pure Comfort: It’s like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. Pastina, with its delicate texture, is perfect for soothing both body and soul.
2. Fast and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe doesn’t require any fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
3. Family-Friendly: Kids love it! The tiny pasta shapes are fun to eat, and the simple flavors make it a hit with picky eaters.
4. Versatile: You can easily adapt this soup by adding veggies or swapping out the chicken broth for veggie broth to make it vegetarian.

Taste Profile

The magic of Pastina Soup lies in its delicate simplicity. The tiny pasta absorbs the rich chicken broth, while the egg adds a velvety texture, reminiscent of egg-drop soup. Parmesan brings a subtle nuttiness, while the butter adds a silky finish. Each spoonful feels like a warm, savory embrace.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup pastina (tiny pasta, like stars or orzo)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Kitchen Tools

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Ladle
• Serving bowls

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pastina

• In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
• Add the pastina and cook according to package instructions, usually around 5-7 minutes, until tender.

2. Prepare the Egg Mixture

• While the pastina is cooking, whisk together the egg, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl.

3. Combine and Serve

• Once the pastina is done, reduce the heat to low.
• Stir in the butter until melted.
• Slowly pour the egg mixture into the soup while stirring constantly to form small ribbons of cooked egg throughout the broth.
• Cook for another minute to ensure the egg is fully set.
• Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately!

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Veggies: Add spinach, carrots, or peas for extra nutrition.
• Broth Variations: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Herbs: Experiment with basil or thyme to add a different flavor profile.

What to Serve with Pastina Soup

This soup is lovely on its own, but pairing it with a crusty loaf of bread is divine! Garlic bread or a simple side salad would also complement the meal beautifully. For something heartier, you could serve this alongside a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort combo.

Tips for Perfect Pastina Soup

1. Stir Constantly: When adding the egg mixture, make sure to stir continuously to prevent large clumps of egg. You want delicate ribbons of egg throughout.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Pastina can get mushy if overcooked, so keep an eye on the timing.
3. Season to Taste: The amount of salt and pepper you need will depend on your broth, so always taste and adjust accordingly.

Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb more broth as it sits, so you might want to add extra broth when reheating.
• Freezing: This soup doesn’t freeze well due to the delicate nature of the pasta, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Orzo, acini di pepe, or any small pasta works just as well. The key is to use a pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the broth.

2. What if I don’t eat eggs?

No problem! You can skip the egg entirely, and the soup will still be delicious. You could add extra Parmesan for more creaminess, or even stir in a splash of heavy cream.

3. How do I prevent the pasta from soaking up all the broth?

If you plan to store the soup, cook the pasta separately and add it to individual servings. This prevents it from soaking up too much liquid over time.

Conclusion

This Classic Italian Pastina Soup is a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a soothing bowl when you need a little extra comfort. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a must-have in your recipe repertoire. I encourage you to give it a try, and don’t forget to pair it with some crusty bread for the full Italian experience!

Looking for More Cozy Soup Recipes?

If you loved this Pastina Soup, you might want to try:

• Mexican Shrimp Cocktail: A zesty and refreshing delight!
• Old-School Spaghetti: A nostalgic classic made easy.
• Seafood Bisque: A luxurious dish with crab, shrimp, and lobster.

Share Your Creations!

I’d love to see how your Pastina Soup turns out! Snap a photo and share it on Pinterest or leave a comment below. Your feedback and creativity are what make this journey so rewarding!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Enjoy this cozy and classic Italian soup! Buon appetito!

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