Description
Welcome to a cozy corner of Italian comfort food! If you’ve been searching for the perfect recipe to warm your soul, this Italian Pastina Soup is the answer. This creamy, nourishing dish is an all-time favorite for anyone who loves hearty, satisfying meals that are simple to make. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and learn why it deserves a spot on your dinner table tonight.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup pastina pasta (or other small pasta like acini di pepe)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Substitutions: For a vegan option, use vegetable broth and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery.
- Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil.
- Add the pastina and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for 7–10 minutes, or until the pastina is tender.
Step 4: Final Touches
- Stir in salt, pepper, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh vegetables for maximum flavor.
- Stir the pasta frequently while cooking to avoid clumping.
- For a richer texture, add a splash of cream or milk during the final step.