Description
Pastina Soup is a beloved Italian comfort dish made with tiny pasta stars, simple broth, and a touch of butter or cheese. It’s perfect for chilly days, sick days, or anytime you need a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
For the soup:
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6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
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¾ cup pastina (or other tiny pasta like acini di pepe or orzo)
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1 tbsp butter
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1 egg (optional, for extra richness)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
Optional additions:
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1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
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A squeeze of lemon juice
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A dash of olive oil
Instructions
1️⃣ Bring broth to a boil: In a medium saucepan, bring the broth to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Add the pasta: Stir in the pastina and cook according to package instructions, usually 5–7 minutes, until tender.
3️⃣ Add butter and cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the butter and Parmesan until melted and combined.
4️⃣ Optional egg step: If using, beat the egg in a bowl. Slowly drizzle it into the soup while stirring gently to create egg ribbons.
5️⃣ Season and serve: Add salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and top with parsley, lemon juice, or olive oil if desired.
Notes
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You can substitute pastina with orzo or other small pasta if unavailable.
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Add a handful of spinach or peas for extra nutrients.
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For a creamier version, stir in a splash of milk or cream.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 10 min