Name: Classic Italian Pastina Soup – The Ultimate Comfort Food!
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: italian
Ingredients: 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1/2 cup pastina pasta; 2 eggs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp butter; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Short Description

Classic Italian Pastina Soup is a heartwarming dish that has been a staple in Italian households for generations. Made with delicate pastina pasta, a rich broth, and simple yet flavorful ingredients, this soup is the perfect remedy for chilly days or when you need a bowl of comfort. Easy to prepare and immensely satisfying, this traditional dish is ideal for kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Quick – This soup requires minimal ingredients and is ready in under 30 minutes.
Comforting and Nourishing – Perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather or need a warm, soothing meal.
Kid-Friendly – The tiny pastina pasta is easy to eat, making it a favorite among children.
Customizable – You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Budget-Friendly – Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients, making it a great meal for any time of the year.

Ingredients

Chicken or vegetable broth
Pastina pasta
Eggs
Parmesan cheese
Butter
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Broth: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Cook the Pastina: Add the pastina pasta to the simmering broth and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Whisk the Eggs: In a small bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined.
Temper the Eggs: Slowly drizzle a ladle of hot broth into the eggs while whisking continuously. This step helps prevent the eggs from scrambling when added to the soup.
Incorporate the Eggs: Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture into the soup, stirring constantly. The eggs will cook in the hot broth, creating a silky, rich texture.
Add the Butter and Cheese: Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until fully melted and incorporated.
Season to Taste: Add salt and black pepper to your preference.
Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley for added flavor and color. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations

Add Protein: Enhance the soup with shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked ground turkey for a heartier meal.
Vegetable Boost: Stir in diced carrots, celery, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Creamier Texture: Use milk or heavy cream in place of some of the broth for a richer consistency.
Cheese Lovers: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or add an extra handful of cheese for a more intense flavor.
Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest can add a bright, refreshing contrast to the rich broth.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Pastina tends to absorb liquid over time, so freezing is not recommended unless stored separately from the broth.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding extra broth or water as needed to maintain the desired consistency. Avoid microwaving at high temperatures to prevent overcooking the eggs.

FAQs

How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling?

Tempering the eggs by slowly whisking in hot broth before adding them to the soup helps prevent curdling.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! If you don’t have pastina, you can substitute with orzo, acini di pepe, or another small pasta variety.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Not traditionally, but you can make it gluten-free by using a small gluten-free pasta or rice instead of pastina.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Simply omit the butter and Parmesan cheese or replace them with dairy-free alternatives.

What broth works best for pastina soup?

Chicken broth gives the soup a richer flavor, but vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian version.

Can I add garlic or onions?

Absolutely! Sautéing a bit of minced garlic or onion before adding the broth can add extra depth of flavor.

What can I serve with pastina soup?

A slice of crusty Italian bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich pairs wonderfully with this comforting soup.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, but the pastina will absorb broth as it sits. Add extra broth when reheating to restore the desired consistency.

How can I make it more filling?

Adding cooked chicken, beans, or extra vegetables will make the soup heartier.

What is the best way to garnish pastina soup?

Freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil adds a finishing touch to enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

Classic Italian Pastina Soup is a warm, nostalgic dish that brings comfort with every spoonful. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving a simple yet satisfying meal, this soup is an easy-to-make, customizable recipe that the whole family will love. Try it today and experience the ultimate comfort food!

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