This Italian Pastina Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Tiny pasta stars swim in a tasty broth with fresh veggies, making it feel so comforting.
It’s super easy to whip up and perfect for chilly days. I love slurping it while wrapped in a cozy blanket. You almost can’t have just one bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a rich flavor to the soup. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use vegetable or canola oil. For a twist, try using flavored oils like garlic or chili oil.
Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and celery make a flavorful base known as a mirepoix. You can substitute shallots for onions or add bell peppers for a different taste. Any root vegetable can add a nice touch too.
Chicken Broth: This is great for depth of flavor. If you need a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works just as well. Homemade broth can elevate your soup even more!
Pastina Pasta: While small star-shaped pasta is traditional, any tiny pasta like orzo or ditalini will do. You can even use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Parmesan Cheese: For a dairy-free option, you could use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. If you can’t find Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are nice alternatives.
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Pastina?
Cooking pastina can be tricky, but it’s straightforward! The key is to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Wait until the soup is boiling before adding pastina; this helps it cook evenly.
- Follow the package instructions carefully, usually about 5 minutes is all you need.
- Test the pasta a minute or two before the time is up; it should be al dente, meaning it’s slightly firm when bitten.
Remember, pastina will continue to absorb liquid even after cooking, so if you’re planning to have leftovers, consider undercooking it slightly!
Italian Pastina Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Soup Components:
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1/2 cup pastina pasta (small star-shaped pasta)
Seasoning and Garnish:
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Italian Pastina Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and satisfying!
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, diced carrot, and diced celery. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and fragrant—around 5-7 minutes. This is your aromatic base!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, sprinkle in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute. You want that wonderful garlic smell to fill your kitchen!
3. Combine Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour the chicken broth into the pot along with the canned diced tomatoes and their juice. Increase the heat and bring your mixture to a nice boil.
4. Cook the Pastina:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Add the pastina pasta and let it cook according to the package instructions—usually about 5 minutes—until it’s tender but still has a little bite to it.
5. Season the Soup:
Stir in the chopped parsley, then sprinkle in some salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle your warm, comforting soup into bowls. Finish off each serving with a generous dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of extra parsley for garnish. It’s time to dig in!
Your Italian Pastina Soup is ready to bring joy and warmth on those chilly days. Enjoy every spoonful!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! If you can’t find pastina, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you use!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This will keep the soup flavorful and vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of broth or water since the pasta will absorb some liquid over time.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is flexible. Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as spinach, zucchini, or peas. Just adjust the cooking time so everything is well-cooked and tender!
