Description
This Italian Pastina Soup is a simple yet comforting dish that combines tiny pasta (pastina), vegetables, and a savory broth. It’s the ultimate comforting meal that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for warming up on a cold day.
Ingredients
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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1 medium zucchini, diced (optional, for added veggies)
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1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
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4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
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1 cup pastina (or any small pasta like ditalini or orzo)
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)
Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables:
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In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
2️⃣ Add the Zucchini and Tomatoes:
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If using zucchini, add it to the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
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Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and cook for 1-2 minutes to let the flavors combine.
3️⃣ Add the Broth and Seasonings:
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Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
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Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4️⃣ Cook the Pastina:
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Add the pastina to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 6-8 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the broth.
5️⃣ Adjust Seasonings:
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Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired, to brighten up the flavors.
6️⃣ Serve:
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Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
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Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like spinach, kale, or peas for added nutrients.
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Broth: For a heartier soup, use chicken broth. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth.
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Protein Add-ins: You can add cooked chicken, beans, or sausage for a protein boost if desired.
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Make-Ahead: The soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Just add a little extra broth when reheating if the soup thickens too much.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min