Pastina Soup
If you’re seeking a quick, nutritious meal that warms the heart, look no further than pastina soup. This Italian classic combines tiny pasta with a rich broth, making it a favorite for both children and adults. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, pastina soup is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring some warmth to your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 cup pastina (tiny pasta)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 cup): 180 calories, 5g protein, 28g carbohydrates, 4g fat, 2g fiber. This nutritional information is based on one serving of pastina soup.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrot, and celery; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the broth to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the pastina and reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the pastina is al dente.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy your comforting bowl of pastina soup!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute pastina with other small pasta shapes like orzo or acini di pepe. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Pastina soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty bread or a side salad. It’s also delicious with a sprinkle of lemon juice on top to brighten the flavors.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. While pastina soup can be frozen, the pasta may become mushy upon thawing, so consider freezing the broth separately.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the pastina; it can become mushy.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Make sure to sauté the vegetables properly for maximum flavor.
- Don’t skip the garnish; fresh herbs enhance the taste!
Helpful Tips
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of cream or milk before serving.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for varied flavors.
- For a heartier soup, add cooked chicken or beans.
- Make a larger batch for meal prep; it reheats well.
FAQs
What is pastina?
Pastina refers to tiny pasta shapes commonly used in soups. They are perfect for quick cooking and are often enjoyed by children and adults alike.
Can I make pastina soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you can add more vegetables for flavor and nutrition.
How long can I store pastina soup?
You can store pastina soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Can I freeze pastina soup?
Yes, but the pasta may become mushy when thawed. It’s best to freeze the broth separately if you want to maintain texture.
What can I serve with pastina soup?
Pastina soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.
Conclusion
Pastina soup is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. Its simplicity and versatility make it a perfect choice for busy days or cozy evenings at home. With easy-to-find ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and again. Enjoy every bowl of this heartwarming soup!
Pastina Soup
Ingredients
- 1 cup pastina
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 carrot diced
- 1 celery stalk diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrot, and celery; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the broth to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the pastina and reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the pastina is al dente.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy your comforting bowl of pastina soup!
