Picture this: a chilly evening, your favorite blanket, and a steaming bowl of Pastina Soup warming your hands and your heart. This recipe isn’t just about tiny star-shaped pasta swimming in a rich, flavorful broth—it’s about creating moments of comfort, one spoonful at a time. Pastina Soup is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug from someone you love, and it’s surprisingly easy to make.
For me, Pastina Soup brings back memories of my grandmother bustling around the kitchen, the aroma of sautéed garlic and onion filling the air. She’d insist on using the freshest ingredients, and while I’ve added a few modern touches, this recipe still carries that timeless, homey vibe.
If you’ve never made this soup before, you’re in for a treat. It’s hearty without being heavy, versatile enough to suit any season, and most importantly, it’s made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting dish:
- 1 cup pastina: These tiny, star-shaped pasta bits cook quickly and make the soup feel extra special.
- 1 medium yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
- 2 carrots: For a pop of color and a hint of natural sweetness.
- 2 celery stalks: Provides a subtle earthy flavor.
- 4 garlic cloves: Minced to perfection for that aromatic touch.
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth: The heart of the soup. Go for low-sodium to control the saltiness.
- 1 Parmesan rind (optional): Trust me, this elevates the flavor to new heights!
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley: For a fresh, herby garnish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: A final flourish of cheesy goodness.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and a silky finish.
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by grabbing a large, sturdy pot and setting it over medium heat. Add a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil—just enough to coat the bottom. As the oil warms, toss in the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. The moment that garlic hits the oil, you’ll know you’re onto something special.
Stir occasionally, letting the vegetables cook for 5-7 minutes. You want them softened and fragrant, but not browned. This step builds the base of the soup’s flavor, so don’t rush it. The slow sauté brings out the natural sweetness of the onions and carrots while mellowing the sharpness of the garlic.
Step 2: Simmer the Broth
Next, pour in your chicken or vegetable broth. If you’re feeling adventurous (and have one on hand), add a Parmesan rind to the pot. This little trick infuses the broth with a rich, nutty undertone that’s absolutely divine. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.
Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where the magic happens—those veggies release their flavors into the broth, creating a base that’s as comforting as a favorite old sweater.
Bringing the Pastina Soup to Life
By now, your kitchen should smell absolutely heavenly—like a warm invitation to gather around the table. But we’re not done yet! This next part is where we bring all the comforting elements together to create a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Let’s continue, shall we?
Step 3: Cook the Pastina
Now it’s time for the star of the show: pastina. These adorable little pasta shapes cook quickly, so they’re perfect for soups. Stir in the pastina and let it cook according to the package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes.
Here’s a tip: Keep an eye on the pot and stir frequently. Pastina has a sneaky way of sinking to the bottom, where it can stick or clump if left unattended. A few gentle stirs now and then will ensure that your pasta is tender and evenly cooked.
While the pastina cooks, you’ll notice the soup thickening slightly—it’s like a cozy hug in liquid form. The starch from the pasta blends with the broth, creating a velvety texture that’s just irresistible.
Step 4: Season the Soup
Once the pastina is perfectly al dente, it’s time to fine-tune the flavors. Remove and discard the Parmesan rind (if you added one earlier). Then, grab a spoon and give the soup a taste.
Season it with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper, adjusting to your preference. If you want an extra kick, a dash of red pepper flakes can add some heat without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Pro tip: If you’re serving this soup to a crowd, hold off on adding too much salt initially. Let each person adjust the seasoning to their liking—especially if they’re planning to pile on the Parmesan cheese at the end!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
It’s time for the grand finale. Ladle the steaming hot soup into bowls, making sure to include a good balance of pasta, veggies, and broth in each serving.
Now for the fun part: the garnishes. Sprinkle each bowl with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a bright, herby note. Add a generous handful of grated Parmesan cheese—it melts beautifully into the soup, creating creamy pockets of cheesy goodness.
Finally, drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil on top. This simple touch not only enhances the flavor but also gives the soup a gorgeous, glossy finish.
Variations and Pro Tips
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, stir in shredded chicken, cooked sausage, or even a handful of white beans. These additions turn the soup into a complete main course.
- Vegetarian Boost: If you’re skipping the Parmesan rind and chicken broth, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a touch of miso paste to the vegetable broth for an extra umami punch.
- Make It Creamy: Want something extra indulgent? Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese before serving.
- Bulk It Up: For an even more filling dish, toss in some chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. The greens wilt beautifully and add a nutritious twist.
This Pastina Soup is a canvas for creativity, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability.
Perfecting and Serving Your Pastina Soup
You’ve made it to the final stretch! By now, you’ve crafted a pot of pure comfort that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it solo with a good book, Pastina Soup is here to warm your soul. But before we wrap things up, let’s answer some common questions about this recipe and offer a few tips to make sure every bowl is as magical as the first.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pastina Soup
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While pastina’s tiny, star-shaped pasta is a classic, other small pasta shapes like orzo, ditalini, or even pearl couscous work beautifully. Adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the pastina will continue to absorb the broth, so you may need to add more liquid when reheating.
3. Can I freeze Pastina Soup?
Yes, but with a caveat: the pastina can become mushy when frozen and reheated. To avoid this, cook and freeze the soup without the pasta. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pastina separately and stir it into the reheated soup.
4. What if I don’t have a Parmesan rind?
No problem! The Parmesan rind adds depth, but the soup is still delicious without it. You can boost the flavor by stirring in a little grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano during the simmering stage.
5. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip the Parmesan rind (or use a vegetarian-friendly version). You’ll still have a rich, flavorful base.
6. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can easily adapt it by using gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to check the package instructions for cooking times, as they can vary.
7. Can I add extra vegetables?
Of course! Zucchini, spinach, or peas are excellent additions. Add softer vegetables in the last few minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Recipe Again and Again
Pastina Soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a tradition, a comfort, and a way to bring people together. Its simplicity is its strength, allowing the flavors of fresh vegetables, savory broth, and tender pasta to shine through.
Whether you’re making it to soothe a cold, warm up on a winter night, or just because you’re craving something cozy, this soup is a guaranteed winner. And the best part? It’s endlessly customizable. Add your own twists, share it with family and friends, and let it become a cherished staple in your kitchen.
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Pastina Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
Warm, comforting, and easy to prepare, this Pastina Soup is a perfect blend of tender pasta, aromatic vegetables, and rich broth. It’s a hearty meal for chilly evenings or when you crave a simple, soothing dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pastina (tiny star-shaped pasta or any small pasta shapes)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 Parmesan rind (optional, for added depth of flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
- Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté the vegetables: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
2️⃣ Simmer the broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the Parmesan rind, if using. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3️⃣ Cook the pasta: Stir in the pastina and cook according to the package instructions (usually 6-8 minutes), until the pasta is tender. Stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
4️⃣ Season the soup: Remove and discard the Parmesan rind. Taste the soup and season it with salt and black pepper as needed.
5️⃣ Serve and garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each serving with freshly chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Notes
- Customizations: Add cooked shredded chicken or diced tofu for extra protein, or include other small vegetables like peas or zucchini.
- Storage: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of broth if it thickens.
- Parmesan rind: This optional ingredient adds a rich, savory flavor to the broth. Save the rinds from blocks of Parmesan cheese for soups like this!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
