Pastina soup is a classic Italian comfort dish that warms the soul. With tiny pasta shapes swimming in a savory broth, this soup is not just delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for a chilly evening or when you’re feeling under the weather, this pastina soup is sure to become a family favorite, offering both nourishment and nostalgia.
Ingredients
– 1 cup pastina (tiny pasta)
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 medium carrot, diced
– 1 celery stalk, diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Based on one serving (1 cup), pastina soup contains approximately 150 calories, 4g protein, 30g carbohydrates, 2g fat, and 3g fiber. This is a comforting and relatively low-calorie option for a light meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. 2. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery; sauté until softened. 3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. 4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. 5. Add the can of diced tomatoes and oregano; season with salt and pepper. 6. Once boiling, add the pastina and cook according to package instructions, about 5-7 minutes. 7. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 8. Once the pasta is tender, remove from heat. 9. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. 10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. 
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute pastina with other small pasta shapes like orzo or tiny shells if desired. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. Additionally, feel free to add leafy greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Pastina soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. For a heartier meal, consider adding some cooked chicken or beans for added protein and texture.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. This soup can be frozen, but the pasta may become softer upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the pastina; it should be al dente.
- Adjust the broth quantity for desired soup thickness.
- Always taste for seasoning before serving.
- Don’t skip the fresh herbs; they add vital flavor.
- Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, use homemade broth.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness.
- Experiment with different vegetables to customize your soup.
- Use leftovers to create a new dish by adding rice or quinoa.
FAQs
What type of pasta is best for pastina soup?
Pastina is specifically designed for this type of soup, but small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini can also work well. They provide similar textures and will absorb the broth nicely.
Can I make pastina soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and feel free to load it up with your favorite vegetables.
How can I thicken my pastina soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water or reduce the amount of broth used. Another option is to mash some of the cooked vegetables.
Is pastina soup suitable for kids?
Yes! The small pasta shapes and mild flavors make it a great option for children. You can customize it with their favorite vegetables or proteins.
Can I add meat to pastina soup?
Yes, cooked chicken or turkey can be added for extra protein. Just stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.
Conclusion
Pastina soup is a delightful and comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. With its simple ingredients and ease of preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Enjoy this classic recipe, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones!
Pastina Soup
Ingredients
- 1 cup pastina
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 medium carrot diced
- 1 celery stalk diced
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 oz
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
- Add diced tomatoes and oregano; season with salt and pepper.
- Once boiling, add pastina and cook according to package instructions.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the pasta is tender, remove from heat.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition
