This comforting Italian Pastina Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! Tiny pasta pieces swim in a flavorful broth with vegetables, making it perfect for any chilly day.
You know it’s a hit when kids and grown-ups alike ask for seconds. I love adding a sprinkle of Parmesan on top—cheesy goodness at its finest! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is the base for sautéing the vegetables. If you don’t have olive oil, you can use vegetable oil or butter. Both will add flavor but with a different twist.
Onion, Carrot, Celery: This trio forms the flavor foundation known as soffrito. Shallots can replace onions, while bell peppers could substitute for carrots or celery if needed.
Pastina Pasta: Tiny pasta shapes are key here. If you can’t find pastina, small shapes like orzo, acini di pepe, or even finely broken spaghetti work well too!
Broth: Chicken broth adds a rich flavor, but vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian option. Homemade broth is always the best choice if you have it!
Parmesan Cheese: A must for that cheesy finish! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese substitute.
How Do I Make Sure My Pastina is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pastina just right can make all the difference in your soup. Here’s how to do it without a hitch:
- Start with a rolling boil before adding pastina to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Stir gently to prevent it from sticking together. This is especially important since pastina is so small!
- Follow the cooking time listed on the package, typically around 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and taste test a minute or two earlier.
- Once al dente (cooked but still firm), remove the pot from heat immediately. This prevents mushiness.
Perfectly cooked pastina will add a delightful texture to your soup!
How to Make Italian Pastina Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, peeled and finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup pastina pasta (tiny star-shaped or small rice-shaped pasta)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat
Time Needed:
This delightful Italian Pastina Soup will take about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. So, in just about 25 minutes, you’ll have a warm, comforting bowl of goodness ready to serve!
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 celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and smell delicious.
2. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. This will really enhance the aroma of your soup!
3. Add Broth and Bring to Boil:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring everything to a boil. This will be the base of your soup, so let those flavors mingle!
4. Cook the Pastina:
Once the broth is boiling, add the pastina pasta. Lower the heat to a simmer and stir occasionally. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the pastina is tender but still has a little bite to it—definitely avoid mushiness!
5. Season It Up:
Now it’s time to flavor the soup! Add salt, pepper, and if you’d like, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Stir well to combine.
6. Add Cheese and Parsley:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. This will add richness and freshness to the soup!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the pot from heat. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley for a lovely presentation.
8. Enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy every delicious spoonful of your homemade Italian Pastina Soup! It’s the perfect dish for a cozy lunch or dinner.
This soup is simple, yet filled with warmth and flavor—ideal for gathering around the table with loved ones. Buon Appetito!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pastina?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, there are several brands that offer gluten-free pastina or similar small pasta shapes made from rice or corn. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package to ensure the best texture.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes, definitely! Feel free to add more veggies like spinach, peas, or zucchini. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces, and you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on what you add. Add heartier vegetables earlier and softer ones later to maintain their texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, keep in mind that the pastina will continue to absorb broth, so you may need to add a splash of water or broth to thin it out before serving again.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth and skip the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy!