Pastina Soup
Experience the comforting embrace of pastina soup, a classic Italian dish that warms the soul. This simple yet flavorful soup features tiny pasta and fresh vegetables, making it a delightful meal for all ages. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re under the weather, pastina soup is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, bringing a taste of Italy right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
– 1 cup pastina pasta
– 1 medium carrot, diced
– 1 celery stalk, diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 180 calories, 5g protein, 30g carbohydrates, 3g fat, and 2g fiber. This nutritional information is based on a single serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add a splash of olive oil to the pot.
3. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
6. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a boil.
7. Once boiling, add the diced tomatoes and dried oregano.
8. Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes.
9. Stir in the pastina and cook until al dente, about 5 minutes.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily swap pastina with other small pasta shapes like orzo or acini di pepe. For a heartier version, add cooked chicken or beans. Vegetables can also be adjusted based on what you have on hand, such as spinach or zucchini.
Serving and Pairings
Pastina soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad. It can also be topped with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. While this soup can be frozen, the texture of the pasta may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much broth can make the soup watery.
- Overcooking the pastina can lead to mushiness.
- Not seasoning adequately can result in bland flavor.
- Skipping the sautéing step may reduce the depth of flavor.
- Forgetting to garnish can make the dish less appealing.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning.
- Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Use homemade broth for the best flavor.
- Consider adding greens like kale for added nutrition.
FAQs
Can I make pastina soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure that any additional ingredients are plant-based.
How long does pastina soup last in the fridge?
Pastina soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Can I freeze pastina soup?
While you can freeze pastina soup, the texture of the pasta may change when reheated. It’s best to add fresh pasta after thawing.
What can I serve with pastina soup?
Crusty bread or a side salad complements pastina soup beautifully. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can enhance the flavors too.
Is pastina soup healthy?
Yes, pastina soup is nutritious and can be adapted to include various vegetables, making it a wholesome option for any meal.
Conclusion
Pastina soup is a delightful and nourishing dish that brings comfort to any table. Its simplicity and versatility make it a favorite for families and individuals alike. Whether enjoyed on a cold day or as a nourishing meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Pastina Soup
Ingredients
- 1 cup pastina pasta
- 1 medium carrot diced
- 1 celery stalk diced
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 oz
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil.
- Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the diced tomatoes and oregano.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the pastina and cook until al dente, about 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.