Pastina Soup
If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty dish that warms the soul, look no further than pastina soup. This delightful Italian classic features tiny pasta shaped like stars or dots, swimming in a savory broth. Perfect for rainy days or when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup is simple to make and incredibly satisfying. Gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this comforting bowl of goodness!
Ingredients
– 1 cup pastina pasta
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, diced
– 1 celery stalk, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
– Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 150 calories, 5g protein, 2g fat, 28g carbohydrates, and 1g fiber. This is based on using chicken broth and without added cheese.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the diced carrot and celery, cooking until slightly softened.
5. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
6. Add the pastina pasta to the boiling broth.
7. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
10. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute pastina with other small pasta shapes like orzo or small shells. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken. Fresh vegetables can also be added for extra nutrients.
Serving and Pairings
Pastina soup pairs beautifully with crusty Italian bread or a fresh green salad. It can also be served alongside a classic Caesar salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup. Freezing is not recommended as the pasta may become mushy.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente when added to the soup.
- Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
- Don’t skip the sautéing step; it builds flavor.
- Be cautious with seasoning until the end to avoid oversalting.
- Always taste before serving to adjust flavors.
Helpful Tips
- For extra richness, add a splash of cream or a pat of butter just before serving.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for unique flavors.
- Garnish with a bit of lemon zest for brightness.
- Use homemade broth for the best flavor.
FAQs
What is pastina?
Pastina refers to tiny pasta shapes, often used in soups or as a base for various dishes. It’s a staple in Italian cooking and ideal for creating comforting meals.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, other small pasta shapes like orzo, ditalini, or even small shells can be used in place of pastina. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is pastina soup healthy?
Pastina soup can be a healthy option, especially if made with low-sodium broth and fresh vegetables. It’s a comforting dish that can be nutritious as part of a balanced diet.
Can I make pastina soup ahead of time?
While you can prep ingredients ahead, it’s best to cook the soup fresh. The pasta can become mushy when stored in the broth.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Adding fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, or grated cheese can elevate the flavor profile. Experiment with your favorite ingredients for a personalized touch.
Conclusion
Pastina soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s perfect for both busy weeknights and cozy weekends. With its simplicity and delicious taste, you’ll find this recipe becoming a staple in your home. Enjoy every spoonful!
Pastina Soup
Ingredients
- 1 cup pastina pasta
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 carrot diced
- 1 celery stalk diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the diced carrot and celery, cooking until slightly softened.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the pastina pasta to the boiling broth.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan if desired.
