Italian Pastina Soup is a warm and cozy dish that’s perfect for chilly days. It features tiny pasta that cooks quickly in a simple broth with veggies like carrots and celery.
This soup is like a big hug in a bowl! 🍲 I love how it warms me up and makes me feel comfy inside. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—just simmer, stir, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or butter will work, but olive oil gives the best taste for this dish.
Pasta: Pastina is the star here, but you can swap it out for any small pasta like orzo or ditalini if you can’t find it. Just cook according to the package instructions!
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth adds depth. For a lighter option, use low-sodium broth or water combined with a bouillon cube. Homemade stock enhances flavor too!
Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan brings a nice saltiness and creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, nutritional yeast is a great option to give a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Vegetables?
Sautéing your veggies at the beginning of the cooking process is key. This method really brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall taste of the soup. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Heat olive oil in a pot on medium heat.
- Add your chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Stir occasionally for 5-7 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic and cook for an extra minute to unlock its full aroma.
Taking the time to sauté your vegetables helps create a flavorful base for your soup, making every spoonful delicious!
Italian Pastina Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup pastina pasta (tiny star-shaped or small pasta shapes)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this delicious Italian Pastina Soup will take approximately 30 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes chopping the veggies and another 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook these veggies for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become nice and soft.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. This will release a wonderful aroma that makes it even more appetizing!
3. Boil the Broth:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and raise the heat until it reaches a boil. This is where the soup begins to take shape.
4. Cook the Pastina:
Once your broth is boiling, add the pastina pasta and the dried Italian herbs. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
5. Season the Soup:
Now, it’s time to season! Add salt and pepper to taste, making sure it’s just right for you.
6. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and the 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until it’s all nicely combined.
7. Serve It Up:
Grab your soup bowls and ladle the warm soup into each one. If you like, sprinkle some extra Parmesan and parsley on top for garnish.
8. Enjoy!
Finally, enjoy this delightful soup hot, paired with some crusty bread for dipping. It’s a simple yet hearty meal that warms you up!
This comforting Italian Pastina Soup features tender tiny pasta in a flavorful broth with finely diced vegetables and fresh herbs, topped with Parmesan for that authentic Italian touch. Enjoy it warm as a simple and cozy meal! 😊
Can I Use Different Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you can’t find pastina, you can use any small pasta like orzo, ditalini, or even small shells. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Everything else in the recipe stays the same for a delicious meat-free meal!
Can I Prepare This Soup in Advance?
Yes! You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the pasta may absorb more broth as it sits, so you might need to add a little water or broth to loosen it up when reheating.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from getting too thick.