As the first chill of autumn settles in, I often find myself longing for cozy meals that warm both body and soul. That’s when I turn to my beloved Italian Pastina Soup. Known fondly as “Italian penicillin,” this creamy delight is a gentle hug in a bowl, featuring tiny pasta and blended veggies. What I adore most is how quickly it comes together—just 30 minutes! Not only is it nourishing and comforting, but it also offers endless possibilities for customization. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or needing a quick solo dinner, this soup is the answer. Curious to see how you can whip up this delightful dish? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Is Italian Pastina Soup So Special?
Comfort at its finest: This dish brings warmth to chilly days, evoking fond memories of home-cooked meals.
Quick & Easy: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a hearty bowl without the lengthy prep.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins, making each bowl a unique experience! For something equally comforting, check out my Chicken Poblano Soup.
Nourishing: Packed with wholesome vegetables, it’s not just a meal but a nutrient boost for body and soul.
Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters can’t resist the comforting allure of tiny pasta in creamy broth!
Italian Pastina Soup Ingredients
For the Base
• Yellow or White Onion – Provides foundational flavor; can substitute with shallots for a sweeter taste.
• Carrots – Adds sweetness and color; use parsnips for a different flavor profile.
• Celery Sticks – Contributes to the mirepoix base; omit for a simpler soup.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth (6 cups) – Forms the soup base; homemade or store-bought works well.
• Parmesan Rind – Infuses the soup with a rich umami flavor; can be replaced with a splash of soy sauce for a similar depth.
For the Pasta
• Pastina Pasta (1 cup) – Tiny pasta adds heartiness; swap with other small pasta like acini di pepe or stelline.
For Creaminess
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup) – Enhances creamy texture and flavor; nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste; adjust according to the broth’s saltiness.
For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, optional) – For garnish; swap with basil for a different herbaceous note.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Pastina Soup
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
Begin by roughly chopping one yellow or white onion, two carrots, and two celery sticks. In a large pot, combine these chopped vegetables with six cups of chicken or vegetable broth and a Parmesan rind. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent, and the aroma fills your kitchen, signaling a robust flavor foundation for your Italian Pastina Soup.
Step 2: Simmer the Base
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes. This simmering process allows the vegetables to become tender and infuses the broth with essential flavors. You’ll know it’s ready when the carrots and celery are fork-tender, creating a comforting base for your soup.
Step 3: Blend the Vegetables
Once the vegetables are tender, carefully remove them from the pot using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a blender. Add ½ to 1 cup of the simmering broth to the blender for a smoother consistency. Blend until the mixture reaches a creamy puree. This step transforms your Italian Pastina Soup into a rich and velvety delight that enhances the overall texture.
Step 4: Combine the Puree and Pastina
Return the vegetable puree back to the pot with the remaining broth. Stir the blend thoroughly until combined, then add one cup of pastina pasta. Increase the heat slightly and let the soup simmer again for about 7 to 9 minutes until the pastina is cooked al dente. You’ll see the pasta float in the soup, eagerly awaiting to absorb all those delicious flavors.
Step 5: Final Touches
Once the pastina is perfectly cooked, reduce the heat and stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts, adding creaminess to your Italian Pastina Soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Keep the soup on low until you’re ready to serve, enjoying the delicious aroma wafting through your home.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot Italian Pastina Soup into bowls and top each serving with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired. This lovely garnish adds a pop of color and freshness to your comforting dish. Enjoy your warm bowl of soup, perfect for chilly days and cozy family gatherings!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Italian Pastina Soup ahead of time is a real time-saver, especially for busy weeknights! You can chop your vegetables (onion, carrots, and celery) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, feel free to prepare the vegetable puree a day ahead too—just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to finish your soup. On the day of serving, when you’re ready to enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness, combine the puree with the broth and pastina, and simmer for about 7-9 minutes until the pasta is cooked. This way, you’ll have homemade Italian Pastina Soup that tastes just as delicious as when made fresh, allowing you to indulge in cozy comfort with minimal effort!
Italian Pastina Soup Customizations
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and make this cozy soup your own with delightful variations!
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Garlic Infusion: Add minced garlic with the vegetables for an aromatic kick. This simple addition brings a savory depth to each spoonful.
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Leafy Greens: Incorporate kale or spinach to boost the nutrition and add a lovely vibrant green. The greens will wilt perfectly, adding both color and goodness.
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Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Just a pinch can elevate your soup into something delightfully unexpected.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile. Each herb brings its unique character, transforming your comforting bowl.
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Protein Boost: Stir in cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas for added heartiness. This makes the soup a filling, one-pot meal the whole family will love.
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Citrus Brightening: A squeeze of lemon juice before serving brightens the entire dish and lifts the flavor. It’s a refreshing twist that adds a touch of zing.
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Cheese Lovers Delight: Try different cheeses for garnishing—grated pecorino or even crumbled feta can provide a fun twist to the classic Parmesan. The variety adds a rich layer of deliciousness.
For extra comforting recipes, don’t miss my Reuben Soup Comforting or the wholesome Gouda Broccoli Soup. Enjoy experimenting with these ideas, and let each bowl of Italian Pastina Soup tell your unique culinary story!
Expert Tips for Italian Pastina Soup
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the soup’s flavor significantly; make sure to choose vibrant veggies for the best taste.
• Don’t Skimp on Broth: A good-quality chicken or vegetable broth makes all the difference; homemade is best for rich, deep flavors in your Italian Pastina Soup.
• Watch the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pastina while it simmers; overcooked pasta can mush up quickly, so aim for al dente texture.
• Freeze Smartly: When storing leftovers, freeze the soup without pasta; adding pasta later keeps it from becoming soggy when reheating.
• Experiment Wisely: Feel free to adapt by adding proteins or different veggies, but adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain balance in your Italian Pastina Soup.
How to Store and Freeze Italian Pastina Soup
Fridge: Store your Italian Pastina Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: To freeze, transfer the cooled soup to a freezer-safe container without the pasta. It lasts for up to 3 months; just remember to label it with the date!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove, adding more broth as needed to restore creaminess.
Pasta Tip: If you’ve stored leftovers, cook fresh pastina separately when reheating to ensure the best texture and flavor in your Italian Pastina Soup.
What to Serve with Cozy Italian Pastina Soup
Warm your heart and elevate your cozy meal with these delightful pairings that complement each comforting spoonful of Italian Pastina Soup.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, this rustic loaf adds a satisfying crunch to the creamy soup, making each bite a pleasure.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette brings a bright contrast to the soup’s richness, balancing textures beautifully.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, garlicky delights are an irresistible side, perfectly mopping up the soup while adding a delicious flavor boost.
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Parmesan Crisps: Crunchy and savory, these cheese crisps provide an enjoyable bite and echo the cheesy goodness of the paste in the soup.
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Roasted Veggies: Caramelized seasonal vegetables offer a sweet and smoky depth, enhancing the soup’s nourishing qualities with wholesome flavors.
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Herbed Rice: A side of fluffy herbed rice, seasoned with fresh parsley or basil, complements the soup, soaking up its comforting broth beautifully.
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Dry White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully, cutting through the richness of the soup with its crisp acidity.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these indulgent treats deliver a sweet finale, contrasting the savory soup and bringing warmth to the meal.
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Fruit Sorbet: A light and refreshing sorbet offers a lovely palate cleanser after the richness of the soup, ending your meal on a bright note.
Italian Pastina Soup Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ingredients?
Absolutely! For the freshest flavors, choose firm, vibrant carrots and firm celery with no dark spots. Onions should be dry and have no signs of sprouting. If you can find a Parmesan rind, it’s usually found at the cheese counter and can enhance the soup flavor remarkably!
How long can I store Italian Pastina Soup?
You can keep your Italian Pastina Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools down completely before sealing it to avoid any condensation from making it watery.
Can I freeze Italian Pastina Soup?
Very much! To freeze, make sure to let your soup cool entirely, then pour it into a freezer-safe container, but leave out the pastina to prevent mushiness. It can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
What if the soup is too thick after reheating?
No worries! If your soup thickens too much after sitting or freezing, simply add a bit of chicken or vegetable broth while gently reheating it on low heat. Stir until you achieve your desired consistency, and it’s just as comforting as the first bowl.
Is there a dietary restriction I should be aware of?
The Italian Pastina Soup can be a wonderful meal for everyone! However, if anyone in your household has allergies, note that Parmesan cheese contains dairy. For a dairy-free alternative, you can easily substitute it with nutritional yeast, which still offers a great flavor!
Can pets eat Italian Pastina Soup?
While the soup is made from wholesome ingredients, think twice before sharing with your pets. The salt and any cheese can be harmful, so it’s best to stick to their regular food and only share small bits of plain, cooked vegetables.
Soul-Warming Italian Pastina Soup for Quick Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by roughly chopping one yellow or white onion, two carrots, and two celery sticks. In a large pot, combine these chopped vegetables with six cups of chicken or vegetable broth and a Parmesan rind. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Once the vegetables are tender, carefully remove them from the pot using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a blender. Add ½ to 1 cup of the simmering broth to the blender for a smoother consistency. Blend until you reach a creamy puree.
- Return the vegetable puree back to the pot with the remaining broth. Stir the blend thoroughly, then add one cup of pastina pasta. Increase the heat slightly and simmer for about 7 to 9 minutes until the pastina is cooked al dente.
- Once the pastina is perfectly cooked, reduce the heat and stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the hot Italian Pastina Soup into bowls and top each serving with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy!
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