Classic Italian Pastina Soup

Nonna's Hug in a Bowl: Discover the Magic of Italian Pastina Soup

Fancy a bowl of pure comfort? Have you ever tried italian pastina soup ? It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.

Honestly, it's the quickest way to cheer up a gloomy day.

A Taste of Tradition: What is Pastina Soup?

This Italian soup recipe has been a family favourite for generations. This simple soup, often made with Pastina pasta , originates from Italy and is a staple in many households.

It is easy soup recipe that takes about 20 minutes. This recipe will easily serve 4 people.

The Goodness Inside and Out: Why This Soup Rocks

This soup is not only delicious but also nourishing. Plus, with ingredients like chicken broth and parmesan, you get a good dose of protein and calcium.

It is the perfect recipe for a chilly evening or a comforting lunch and makes this comfort food soup extra special.

Alright, let's get this sorted: Ingredients You'll Need

Now, it's time to gather your ingredients and Nonna's soup recipe can come to life.

• 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium is best, innit?)
• 1/2 cup Pastina pasta (the star shaped ones, obviously)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese , plus extra for serving
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated carrot (for a bit of sweetness)

Based on the recipe and description, here's a list of 10 , blending what's given with some extra goodness to give that site a proper boost: Pastina pasta , Chicken broth , Parmesan cheese , Italian soup recipe , Comfort food soup , Star pasta soup , Easy soup recipes , Nonna's soup recipe , Italian comfort food , Quick

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Getting Started: Cooking Directions

1. Sauté onion and garlic until softened. About 5 mins should do it.
2. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
3. Stir in the star pasta soup and cook 'til tender. Usually around 8- 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan and parsley, and season.
5. Serve it up ladled into bowls. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan never hurts!

Seriously, this quick soup recipes is a breeze to make. Trust me, you’ll be slurping away in no time.

Ingredients & Equipment for Nonna's Hug in a Bowl

Alright, let's get this sorted. We're diving into the heart of our Italian pastina soup , and that starts with what you need! Trust me, it's all pretty straightforward.

This comfort food soup is so simple, even I can't mess it up!

Main Ingredients Breakdown

Here's the shopping list. Pay attention to the quality of the broth. It makes a HUGE difference!

• 6 cups (1.4 liters) chicken broth (low sodium is your friend)
• 1/2 cup (85g) Pastina pasta (the little stars are key!)
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil (go for good stuff)
• 1 small onion , finely diced (about 1/2 cup or 75g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is always best, innit?)
• 1/4 cup (15g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving (parmesan cheese must be aged over 24 months!)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated carrot (for a bit of sweetness)

Quality Tip: For the chicken broth, aim for a low-sodium version. You can always add salt, but you can't take it away! I once used a super salty broth, and the whole Italian soup recipe was ruined!

Seasoning Notes: Aromatic Magic

This Nonna's soup recipe relies on simple, but effective, flavors. The olive oil, garlic, and parmesan create the base. Seasoning is a must! Taste as you go.

• Essential combo: Olive oil and garlic is the magic.
• Flavor enhancers: Parmesan brings the saltiness, parsley the freshness.
• Substitution options: If you're out of parsley, try basil. Adds a different, but yummy, twist!

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

Don't overthink it. This easy soup recipe doesn't require much kit.

• Essential tools only
• Medium saucepan (a 2-3 quart size is perfect)
• Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring, obvs)
• Measuring cups and spoons (no guesswork here!)
• Knife and cutting board (for chopping your bits)
• Grater (for that all-important Parmesan)

Household Alternative: If you don't have a grater, just use a vegetable peeler to create thin Parmesan shavings. Works a treat! This is also one of the best quick soup recipes .

Cooking Method: Making Magic with Italian Pastina Soup

Alright, let's get this sorted. We're diving into the world of comfort food with a classic: Italian pastina soup . This isn't just any soup; it's a hug in a bowl, and honestly, it's easier than making toast.

You know? Trust me.

Prep Steps: Mise en Place, Sorted!

First things first, essential mise en place . That's fancy talk for "get your stuff ready." Chop one small onion and mince two cloves of garlic.

Measure out one-half cup of pastina pasta , and get your six cups of chicken broth ready. Oh my gosh, don't forget about the Parmesan cheese ! A quarter cup, grated, plus extra for serving.

Time saving tip? Dice the onion and garlic while the kettle boils for your cuppa. Safety? Don't cut yourself. Simple as.

step-by-step Process: Simplicity Itself

1. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in your pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté the onion until softened, about 5 minutes .
3. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute . Watch it so it doesn't burn!
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the pastina pasta. Cook for 8- 10 minutes , or until tender.
6. Remove from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan and two tablespoons of fresh parsley.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy your warm italian comfort food .

The pasta should be tender, but not mushy. Aim for that perfectly soft, comforting texture.

Pro Tips: Elevating Your Soup Game

Honestly, the broth quality matters . Use good stuff! Homemade is brilliant, but a decent store-bought one will do.

Common mistake? Overcooking the pasta. Pastina cooks fast, so keep an eye on it.

make-ahead? You can prep the onion and garlic beforehand, but I think it's best served fresh. Trust me, it's quick! This easy soup recipe will be your new go-to.

Nonna's soup recipe is a treasure, and this version is a modern take on the classic. Enjoy this quick soup recipe !

Recipe Notes for the Perfect Italian Pastina Soup

Alright, let's get this sorted with some extra tips for Italian pastina soup , yeah? I swear, once you nail this, you'll be making it all the time! This isn't just an easy soup recipe ; it's therapy in a bowl.

Serving Suggestions: Make it a Meal!

Plating wise, nothing fancy needed. A simple bowl, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese , and a sprig of parsley. If you're feeling posh, a drizzle of good olive oil works wonders.

Presentation matters, even when it's comfort food.

For sides, think simple. Crusty bread for dunking is a must. A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness.

Honestly, I sometimes just have it with a nice glass of white wine. You know? Treat yourself!

Storage Tips: Keeping the Comfort Going

This Italian pastina soup is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers are still yummy. Stick it in the fridge in an airtight container, and it will last for 2-3 days .

Freezing isn't ideal, as the pasta can get a bit mushy. But if you must , undercook the pasta slightly before freezing.

When reheating, add a splash of broth to loosen it up. Gently simmer until heated through, not boiling .

Variations: Mix it Up!

Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth .

Add some chopped veggies like carrots or zucchini.

Got dietary needs? For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pastina. It's really that simple! And for Italian comfort food , feel free to experiment with different herbs.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bowl

One serving of this star pasta soup comes in around 200 calories. It's packed with protein and carbs to keep you going. The broth hydrates, and the Parmesan cheese adds calcium.

Honestly, this Italian soup recipe is more than just a meal. It’s a hug in a bowl. My nonna used to make this.

This is more than just a quick soup recipe , it's a tradition. Think of it as a nutritional safety net.

So there you have it! Some extra notes to make your Italian pastina soup absolutely perfect. Don't be afraid to experiment.

This isn't rocket science, so give it a go!. Have fun, and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is Italian pastina soup, and why is it so popular?

Italian pastina soup is a simple, comforting soup made with tiny, star shaped pasta called pastina, typically simmered in chicken broth. It's popular because it's quick to make, easily digestible, and evokes a sense of nostalgia, often being a go-to meal for children or when feeling under the weather.

Think of it as the Italian equivalent of chicken noodle soup a true hug in a bowl!

My Italian pastina soup turned out a bit bland. How can I boost the flavor?

Bland soup is a common woe, but easily fixed! Ensure you're using a good quality chicken broth; homemade is best, but a low-sodium store-bought option with added herbs works well too.

Sautéing the onions and garlic until properly softened and fragrant is crucial for building flavour at the base, and don't be shy with the salt and pepper! A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can also brighten the flavour.

Can I make Italian pastina soup ahead of time, or is it best served immediately?

Pastina is best enjoyed fresh because it tends to absorb a lot of liquid and can become mushy if left sitting for too long. If you must make it ahead, cook the pastina separately and add it to the heated broth just before serving.

Otherwise, prepare the broth base in advance and cook the pastina right before you plan to eat.

I'm looking for variations on classic Italian pastina soup. Any suggestions?

Absolutely! For a richer soup, try stirring in a whisked egg at the end to create a creamy egg drop effect. You could also add finely diced vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini for extra nutrients and texture. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick, and a dollop of pesto is a fresh, vibrant addition.

You can also substitute orzo or acini di pepe if pastina is not available. Be adventurous and experiment with your own favorite flavors!

How do I store leftover Italian pastina soup, and for how long will it keep?

Store leftover Italian pastina soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will generally keep for 2-3 days. Be aware that the pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so the soup may become thicker. When reheating, you might need to add a little extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Is Italian pastina soup suitable for babies or people with dietary restrictions?

Yes, Italian pastina soup is often given to babies and young children due to its mild flavor and small pasta size! For babies, ensure the soup is cooled and the pastina is very soft. If you have dietary concerns, you can easily adapt the recipe.

Use gluten-free pastina for gluten intolerance, vegetable broth for vegetarians, and adjust the salt content as needed for low-sodium diets. As always, consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian if you have specific dietary concerns.