Description
Pastina Soup is a comforting and nostalgic Italian classic made with tiny star-shaped pasta, a rich chicken broth, and simple ingredients. This quick and easy dish is perfect for cozy nights or when you need a soothing bowl of warmth. It’s loved by kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup pastina (or any small pasta like orzo)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables
- Dice the onion, carrot, and celery into small pieces. Mince the garlic and set everything aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the Broth
- Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring it to a gentle boil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the Pasta
- Add the pastina to the boiling broth. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a small bowl, whisk the eggs and Parmesan cheese together until smooth.
- Incorporate the Egg Mixture
- Slowly drizzle the egg mixture into the pot while stirring continuously to create delicate strands of egg throughout the soup.
- Garnish and Serve
- Stir in the fresh parsley and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, top with extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
- Broth Quality: Use homemade chicken broth or a high-quality store-bought option for the best flavor.
- Pasta Alternatives: If you can’t find pastina, use orzo, acini di pepe, or couscous.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Freezing Tip: Freeze the soup without the pasta, then cook and add fresh pasta when reheating.
- Additions: Include spinach, zucchini, or peas for extra nutrients and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: Italian