Pastina Soup

Pastina Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Often a staple in Italian kitchens, this simple soup features tiny pasta called pastina, which absorbs the rich flavors of chicken broth and creates a soothing, light dish. The addition of eggs and Parmesan cheese adds creaminess and a savory depth, making this soup both nourishing and delicious. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving something warm and cozy, Pastina Soup is the ideal choice.

This soup is perfect for busy weeknights or even as a light starter before a larger meal. The beauty of Pastina Soup lies in its simplicity—it’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can be ready in just about 15 minutes. The delicate egg ribbons in the broth provide a silky texture, and the Parmesan cheese gives it a rich, umami flavor that elevates this otherwise humble dish. It’s comforting, wholesome, and versatile enough to be enjoyed by everyone, from children to adults.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pastina Soup is a wonderfully simple yet deeply satisfying meal that hits the spot every time. The light yet flavorful broth is complemented by the small pasta, making it hearty without being too heavy. The eggs create a silky texture, and the Parmesan cheese adds richness and depth to the soup. It’s also an incredibly quick recipe to make, perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something warm and comforting. This soup is both nostalgic and easy to customize, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients

• Pastina
• Chicken broth
• Eggs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this soup.
• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition and flavor, add diced carrots, celery, or onions to the broth before adding the pastina.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced chili pepper to bring a bit of heat to the soup.
• Herb Flavor: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, basil, or rosemary for added depth of flavor.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk toward the end of cooking for a creamier texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Cook the Pastina

Once the broth is boiling, add the pastina. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 4-6 minutes, until the pasta is tender.

Step 3: Beat the Eggs and Parmesan

In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese until fully combined.

Step 4: Add the Egg Mixture

Slowly pour the egg and cheese mixture into the soup, stirring constantly to create egg ribbons throughout the broth. Be sure to stir gently to avoid scrambling the eggs.

Step 5: Season the Soup

Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your liking. Adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Stir Constantly: When adding the egg mixture, stir constantly to ensure that the eggs create delicate ribbons in the soup rather than clumping together.
• Check the Pasta: Pastina cooks quickly, so be sure not to overcook it. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally.
• Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a more brothy soup, you can add more chicken broth as needed. If you like it thicker, reduce the amount of broth.
• Add Extra Cheese: If you love cheesy flavors, feel free to add more Parmesan to taste or top each bowl with a little extra grated cheese.

How to Serve

Pastina Soup is best served hot, especially on chilly days when you need something comforting. It’s perfect as a light meal on its own or as a starter to a larger meal. You can serve it alongside some crusty bread or a simple salad for a well-rounded dish. For an extra touch, add a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pastina Soup is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the broth as it sits, so you may need to add a bit more broth when reheating.

Freezing

Because of the eggs and pasta, this soup does not freeze well. It’s best to enjoy it within a couple of days of making it.

Reheating

To reheat, place the soup in a pot over medium heat and add a little more chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Stir occasionally until heated through. You may need to adjust the seasoning before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! If you can’t find pastina, you can substitute it with any small pasta, such as orzo or acini di pepe.

2. Can I make this soup without eggs?

You can make the soup without eggs, though you will miss the silky texture that the eggs create. You could try adding a splash of cream or milk to achieve a similar richness.

3. Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Yes! You can add diced carrots, celery, or onions to the broth for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté the vegetables before adding the broth to enhance their taste.

4. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

The soup is best served immediately, but you can prepare the broth and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just add the egg mixture and Parmesan cheese just before serving.

5. How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling in the soup?

To prevent scrambling, be sure to stir the egg mixture into the soup slowly and constantly while pouring it in. This will create the desired egg ribbons instead of clumps.

6. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of this soup.

7. Can I add some protein to this soup?

You can add cooked chicken, sausage, or beans to the soup to make it more hearty and filling.

8. Is this soup gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free pastina or another gluten-free pasta, this soup can be made gluten-free.

9. How long will this soup last in the refrigerator?

Stored in an airtight container, the soup will last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to store the soup in individual portions for easier reheating.

10. Can I freeze this soup?

It’s not recommended to freeze this soup due to the eggs and pasta, as they do not reheat well once frozen.

Conclusion

Pastina Soup is the epitome of comfort food—simple, quick, and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a cozy dish to warm you up on a cold day, this soup hits the spot. With its delicate pastina, silky egg ribbons, and savory chicken broth, it’s a dish that’s both easy to make and deliciously comforting. Enjoy this nourishing soup with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley for a flavorful meal that the whole family will love.

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