Easy Pastina Recipe

Pastina, often referred to as “Italian penicillin,” is a beloved comfort food that has warmed hearts and soothed souls for generations. This tiny pasta, often shaped like little stars, is a staple in Italian households and is cherished for its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving a cozy meal, this pastina recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Let’s explore how to create this timeless dish!

Pastina is more than just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. This tiny pasta, cooked in a flavorful broth and often enriched with an egg or Parmesan cheese, is a go-to recipe for anyone seeking a quick, nourishing, and satisfying meal. Its simplicity makes it perfect for busy weeknights, while its comforting nature makes it ideal for those days when you need a little extra TLC.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the steps to create the perfect pastina dish. From selecting the right ingredients to mastering the cooking process, you’ll learn everything you need to know to make this Italian classic at home.

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite ingredients, like vegetables, herbs, or different types of broth.
• Comforting: The warm broth and tender pasta make it the ultimate comfort food.
• Nutritious: Made with wholesome ingredients like chicken broth and eggs, it’s both filling and nourishing.
• Kid-Friendly: The small pasta shapes and mild flavors are a hit with children.

Ingredients to make Pastina Italian 

Here’s what you’ll need to make pastina soup:

• 1 cup pastina pasta (or substitute with orzo or stelline pasta)
• 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought; vegetable broth works too)
• 1 large egg (optional, for added richness)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, to add a creamy touch)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Drizzle of olive oil (optional, for serving)

how to make this recipe step by step

Making pastina is a straightforward process that yields a comforting and delicious dish in just a few minutes. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect bowl of pastina:

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

1. Choose Your Broth: Use 4 cups of chicken broth for a classic flavor. You can also use vegetable broth or bone broth for a different twist.
2. Simmer the Broth: Pour the broth into a medium-sized pot and place it over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Avoid boiling it vigorously, as this can reduce the broth’s flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Pastina

1. Add the Pastina: Once the broth is simmering, add 1 cup of pastina pasta to the pot. Stir gently to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom.
2. Cook Until Tender: Let the pastina cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta should be soft yet firm, not overcooked. For a softer consistency, extend the cooking time by a minute or so.

Step 3: Add the Egg (Optional)

1. Whisk the Egg: In a small bowl, crack 1 large egg and whisk it thoroughly until smooth.
2. Temper the Egg: To prevent the egg from scrambling, take a ladleful of the hot broth and slowly pour it into the bowl with the egg while whisking continuously. This helps bring the egg to a similar temperature as the broth.
3. Combine with Pastina: Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture into the pot while stirring the pastina continuously. This creates a creamy, velvety texture that enriches the dish.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Butter

1. Add Parmesan Cheese: Turn off the heat and stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. The residual heat will melt the cheese and blend it seamlessly into the dish.
2. Incorporate Butter: For extra creaminess, add 1 tablespoon of butter and stir until it’s fully melted and combined.

Step 5: Season and Serve

1. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the pastina and add salt and pepper as needed. Be cautious with salt if your broth is already well-seasoned.
2. Drizzle with Olive Oil: For a finishing touch, drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top. This adds a subtle richness and enhances the flavor.
3. Serve Immediately: Pastina is best enjoyed hot. Ladle it into bowls and serve right away for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Notes:

• Stirring is Key: Continuously stir the pastina while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the pot.
• Broth Consistency: If the pastina thickens too much as it cools, add a splash of hot broth or water to loosen it up before serving.
• Egg-Free Option: If you prefer not to use an egg, simply skip Step 3. The dish will still be delicious with just the broth, cheese, and butter.

This step-by-step guide ensures your pastina turns out perfectly every time. It’s a quick, easy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips and Variations for Pastina recipes

Pastina is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some expert tips and creative variations to help you elevate your pastina game:

Pro Tips

1. Use High-Quality Broth: The broth is the foundation of this dish, so opt for homemade chicken broth or a high-quality store-bought version. This small change significantly enhances the overall taste.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pastina: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. Pastina should be tender with just a hint of firmness. Overcooking can make it mushy.
3. Temper the Egg Properly: If you’re adding an egg, temper it correctly by slowly mixing it with hot broth before adding it to the pot. This prevents the egg from scrambling.
4. Stir Frequently: Stir the pastina often while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
5. Adjust Consistency: If the pastina thickens too much as it sits, add a splash of hot broth or water to loosen it up before serving.
6. Salt Mindfully: Taste the broth before adding extra salt, especially if using store-bought broth, which can already be quite salty.

Variations

1. Vegetable-Packed Pastina:
   • Add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach to the broth while it simmers. This boosts the nutritional value and adds color and texture.
2. Creamy Pastina:
   • Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
3. Protein Boost:
   • Add shredded cooked chicken, diced ham, or even small meatballs to make the dish more filling and protein-rich.
4. Cheese Swap:
   • Experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or a mix of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
5. Egg-Free Version:
   • Skip the egg and focus on the broth and cheese for a lighter version of the dish.
6. Herb-Infused Pastina:
   • Add fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme at the end for a burst of freshness and aroma.
7. Spicy Twist:
   • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a subtle kick.
8. Gluten-Free Option:
   • Use gluten-free pastina or substitute with quinoa or rice for a gluten-free version.
9. Lemon Zest Upgrade:
   • Add a bit of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a bright, tangy flavor.
10. Kid-Friendly Fun:
    • Use fun-shaped pastina (like stars or animals) to make the dish more appealing to children. You can also add a sprinkle of colorful veggies.

Special Occasion Ideas

• Holiday Pastina: Add festive flavors like a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for a cozy holiday twist.
• Easter or Mother’s Day Brunch: Serve pastina as part of a special brunch menu, paired with fresh fruit and pastries.

These tips and variations allow you to tailor the pastina recipe to your preferences, making it a dish you can enjoy in countless ways.

Serving Suggestions

Pastina is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with these serving ideas:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
• Topped with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
• Pair with a Salad: Serve alongside a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Add Protein: Stir in shredded chicken or cooked meatballs for a heartier dish.

How to Store & Reheat

• Storing: Let the pastina cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the pasta. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

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Pastina Recipes

Jessica

If you have not yet tried Pastina recipe, you are missing out on the ultimate Italian comfort food. I'm here to show you a simple and easy recipe!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 2 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Soup

Cuisine Italian

Servings 2 Servings

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup pastina pasta or substitute with stelline or orzo
• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
• 1 large egg optional, for added richness
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano
• 1 tablespoon butter optional, for extra creaminess
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley optional, for garnish

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Broth: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil over medium heat. Season with a pinch of salt if needed.
• Cook the Pastina: Add the pastina to the boiling broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
• Add the Egg (Optional): In a small bowl, whisk the egg. Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour the egg into the soup while stirring continuously. This will create silky ribbons in the broth.
• Finish with Cheese and Butter: Turn off the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and combined.
• Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle the pastina into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 2g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Sodium: 800mg

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Conclusion

Pastina is a timeless dish that brings comfort and joy to every bite. Its simplicity, versatility, and nourishing qualities make it a must-have recipe in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this pastina recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and experience the magic of this Italian classic!

Pastina soup is not only a comforting meal but also a nutritious choice. According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), incorporating wholesome ingredients like chicken broth, eggs, and vegetables into your diet can provide essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins, and minerals. This simple yet nourishing dish is perfect for both children and adults, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.

FAQs 

This pastina recipe is easy, quick, and perfect for any occasion. Savor the cozy, comforting feeling it brings to your meal!