There’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of Italian Pastina Soup. Loved for generations, this traditional Italian recipe is the epitome of comfort food. Whether you’re looking for an easy soup recipe to get through a chilly evening or a quick homemade dish to soothe a cold, pastina soup ticks all the boxes.

With its tiny star-shaped pasta and flavorful broth, it’s no wonder this dish is a household favorite in Italy and beyond! Below, you’ll find an easy-to-follow recipe broken down into clear steps, along with tips to ensure your kitchen prep is a breeze.

Preparation and Cooking Time

One of the best things about Italian Pastina Soup is how quickly it comes together. Even if you’re short on time, this recipe is ready to rescue your evening!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

With just half an hour of effort, you’ll have a delicious homemade soup that the whole family will love. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions!

Essential Kitchen Tools for Easy Cooking

Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when equipped with the right tools. To prepare Italian Pastina Soup efficiently, make sure you have these kitchen essentials on hand:

Medium-sized pot: Perfect for cooking pasta and simmering the broth. Opt for stainless steel or non-stick for easy cleanup.
Ladle: Essential for serving soup without spilling.
Fine mesh strainer: Handy for rinsing fresh herbs like parsley or draining cooked pasta.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise amounts of broth, pastina, and seasonings for the best flavors.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot.

Once you’ve gathered your tools, you’re already halfway there to creating a bowl of this warm and delicious pastina soup!

Ingredients for Italian Pastina Soup

To whip up this cozy comfort food, you’ll need basic, wholesome ingredients. Many of these are already pantry staples, making this recipe even easier to prepare!

1 cup pastina pasta (tiny star-shaped pasta works best)
6 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 large egg (optional, for an egg-drop-style touch)
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding diced carrots, celery, or even shredded chicken for more variation!

How to Make Italian Pastina Soup?

Italian pastina soup is a warm and comforting dish made with tiny pasta, rich broth, and simple seasonings. It’s a classic Italian comfort food that’s easy to prepare and perfect for chilly days. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a delicious bowl of homemade pastina soup!

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by gathering the ingredients on your kitchen counter. Chop the parsley finely, mince the garlic, and measure out the pastina pasta. This ensures everything is ready for a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic

Heat the olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as this can make the soup bitter.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring occasionally. Bring it to a gentle simmer to infuse the garlic’s rich flavor into the liquid.

Step 4: Cook the Pastina

Once the broth is simmering, add the pastina pasta to the pot. Stir occasionally to stop it from sticking to the bottom. The pasta usually cooks within 5-7 minutes but always check the package instructions for exact timing.

Step 5 (Optional): Create an Egg Drop Effect

For a twist inspired by traditional Italian recipes, whisk an egg in a small bowl. Slowly drizzle the egg into the simmering soup while gently stirring. This step is optional but adds a creamy, hearty touch!

Step 6: Season to Perfection

Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Keep in mind that Parmesan cheese is naturally salty, so go light on additional seasoning if you plan to use the cheese.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese. Ladle the soup into bowls while it’s still hot, garnish with extra parsley or cheese, and serve immediately.

Tips for the Perfect Bowl of Pastina Soup

Broth matters: A high-quality chicken broth enhances the soup’s flavor. Opt for homemade or store-bought low-sodium varieties for better control over salt levels.
Cook with care: Pastina cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. Mushy pasta can affect the soup’s texture.
Customize it: For a heartier bowl, add cooked chicken, diced vegetables, or even baby spinach. This makes the soup even more nutritious and filling!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Pastina Soup?

Italian Pastina Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Here’s why it’s loved by so many families worldwide:

Comfort food at its finest: With its simple, wholesome ingredients, this soup has all the charm of traditional Italian recipes.
Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a last-minute dinner idea.
Loved by kids and adults alike: The tiny pasta shapes like stars or letters make it appealing to young kids, while the rich flavor keeps the adults coming back for seconds.
Affordable: With a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious meal without breaking the bank.

Conclusion:

Italian Pastina Soup embodies everything we love about traditional Italian recipes – simplicity, flavor, and heartwarming comfort. With just a few ingredients and minimal time, you can create a meal that feels like home. Share this easy recipe with friends and family, and bring a little bit of Italian tradition to your table.

Whether you’re looking for an easy soup recipe to warm up your weekdays or a timeless comfort food to soothe your soul, this homemade pastina soup won’t disappoint. Try it out today, and get ready to make it a staple in your recipe collection!