Nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of Italian Pastina Soup—affectionately nicknamed “Italian Penicillin” for its comforting, restorative qualities. Whether you’re battling a winter cold, looking for a quick, hearty meal, or simply craving a warm bowl of nostalgia, this dish is a true lifesaver. It’s quick, simple, and endlessly customizable, making it a go-to comfort food for anyone, anytime.
Why We Love Pastina Soup This classic Italian soup is all about simplicity, but don’t let that fool you—every bite is loaded with flavor and heartwarming goodness. The tiny, star-shaped pastina pasta is the star (literally!), but what truly sets this dish apart is the rich chicken broth, creamy egg strands, and the salty tang of Parmesan cheese.
Growing up, this soup was my mom’s magic cure-all for every sniffle, bad day, or chilly evening. Just the aroma of simmering broth brings back cozy memories of sitting at the kitchen table, bundled up in a blanket, waiting for that first comforting spoonful. Trust me—this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen, too.
Step 1: Heat the Broth
Start by pouring 4 cups of chicken broth into a medium-sized pot. Homemade broth is always a bonus if you have it, but don’t stress—your favorite store-bought variety works perfectly. Set the pot over medium heat and let the broth come to a gentle boil. The goal here is to create a flavorful base that will soak into every bite of the pastina.
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in a few sprigs of fresh parsley or a pinch of nutmeg while the broth heats. These subtle additions bring a depth of flavor that feels oh-so-special without being overpowering.
Step 2: Cook the Pastina
Once your broth is bubbling gently, it’s time to add 1 cup of pastina pasta. These tiny stars cook quickly—about 6 to 8 minutes is all they need. Stir occasionally to keep them from sticking together, and watch them soak up that delicious broth.
Feeling extra hungry? This is the perfect moment to toss in some shredded chicken or diced veggies like carrots, celery, or zucchini for a heartier meal.
Italian Penicillin: Bringing Creamy Comfort to Pastina Soup
Now that your broth is bubbling and your tiny pastina stars are soft and tender, it’s time to elevate this humble soup with some creamy, cheesy magic. This next phase is where the dish transforms from a simple broth-based soup to a rich and satisfying bowl of comfort. Trust me—you’ll want to savor every silky, cheesy spoonful.
Step 3: Create Creamy Richness
Here’s where the magic happens! Reduce the heat to low and grab your beaten egg. Slowly drizzle the egg into the simmering soup while whisking continuously. This step is key to creating those beautiful, silky strands that float delicately in the broth. It’s an easy technique that adds a touch of elegance to this cozy dish.
Pro Tip: If you’re new to the whisk-and-drizzle method, don’t worry! Just pour the egg slowly and whisk with a steady hand—it’s practically foolproof. And if a few chunks form, they’ll still taste delicious!
Step 4: Stir in Butter and Parmesan Cheese
Next, it’s time to stir in the flavor powerhouses: butter and Parmesan cheese. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pot, letting it melt completely, and then sprinkle in ¼ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is beautifully combined. This step gives the soup a creamy texture and a salty, cheesy kick that pairs perfectly with the tender pastina.
Feel free to taste at this stage and adjust the seasoning. A pinch of salt and a generous grind of black pepper usually do the trick, but if you want to kick things up a notch, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of garlic powder.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Now comes the best part—serving! Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a little extra love. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a crack of black pepper take this dish from comforting to absolutely irresistible. If you’ve got fresh herbs like parsley or basil on hand, toss a pinch on top for a pop of color and a burst of freshness.
Pro Tip: Serve this soup piping hot with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. The combination of creamy broth and crunchy bread is nothing short of heavenly.
Customizing Your Pastina Soup This soup is endlessly versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative. Here are a few ways to make it your own:
- Add Protein: Shredded rotisserie chicken or diced cooked sausage turn this into a more filling main course.
- Boost the Veggies: Toss in a handful of spinach, kale, or diced zucchini for added nutrition.
- Make it Extra Cheesy: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or Pecorino Romano for an even cheesier flavor profile.
As you can see, this little bowl of Italian penicillin is much more than a quick meal—it’s a blank canvas for all your culinary creativity. But no matter how you customize it, one thing’s for sure: it’s going to be a hit at your dinner table.
Italian Penicillin: Perfecting Pastina Soup and FAQ
You’re almost a master of this soul-soothing dish! By now, you’ve brought together all the essential components—hearty broth, tender pastina, creamy egg ribbons, and the irresistible richness of butter and Parmesan. But before you ladle up another bowl, let’s address some common questions and share tips to make this recipe even more foolproof.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pastina Soup
1. Can I use a different type of pasta if I don’t have pastina?
Absolutely! While pastina’s star shapes are iconic, other small pasta varieties like orzo, acini di pepe, or even couscous work well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
2. What if I don’t eat eggs?
No problem! The egg adds a silky texture, but you can skip it entirely or substitute with a splash of heavy cream for a similar richness.
3. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. You’ll still get a flavorful base, and the soup will be just as comforting.
4. Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes, but keep in mind that the pastina will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, which can make the soup thicker. To avoid this, cook the pastina separately and add it to the reheated broth just before serving.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up and restore its original consistency.
6. Can I freeze pastina soup?
This soup freezes well, but again, the pasta may absorb more liquid during storage. If freezing, consider undercooking the pastina slightly so it doesn’t become mushy upon reheating.
7. What are some fun toppings or garnishes to try?
Aside from extra Parmesan and black pepper, try garnishing with crispy pancetta, fresh basil, or even a drizzle of truffle oil for an elevated twist.
Conclusion: A Bowl of Comfort Awaits
There’s a reason this dish is affectionately called “Italian Penicillin”—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re battling the sniffles or simply craving something cozy and nostalgic, pastina soup is the answer. Its simplicity and versatility make it a recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for any occasion.
Now it’s your turn to bring this Italian classic to life! Try it as is, or put your own spin on it with added veggies, proteins, or spices. And don’t forget to share your creations—I’d love to hear about the unique twists you bring to this comforting dish.
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Italian Penicillin: Pastina Soup
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Description
A comforting and simple Italian classic, Pastina Soup (often called “Italian Penicillin”) is the ultimate remedy for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather. With tiny star-shaped pasta, a velvety egg finish, and a touch of Parmesan, this quick and satisfying soup warms the soul.
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup pastina pasta (tiny star-shaped or pearl-shaped pasta)
- 1 egg, beaten
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Heat the Broth:
In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil over medium heat.
2️⃣ Cook the Pastina:
Add the pastina to the boiling broth. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
3️⃣ Create Creamy Richness:
Reduce the heat to low. Slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the simmering soup while whisking continuously to form silky strands.
4️⃣ Finish with Butter & Cheese:
Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
5️⃣ Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls, top with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For added flavor, toss in fresh herbs like parsley or a pinch of nutmeg.
- Customize by adding shredded chicken or diced vegetables for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
