Italian Pastina Soup

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Warm, nourishing, and as comforting as a hug in a bowl, Italian Pastina Soup is a staple in many homes for good reason. This tiny star-shaped pasta is simmered in a savory broth with simple ingredients, resulting in a soup that’s perfect for sick days, chilly evenings, or when you just need a little soul-soothing goodness. It’s the kind of meal that reminds you of grandma’s kitchen, where love and food always went hand in hand.

What makes pastina soup so special is its pure simplicity. You don’t need fancy ingredients to create something deeply satisfying. Just a handful of pantry staples come together in a way that feels like magic. It’s one of those recipes that can be whipped up quickly, yet delivers maximum comfort with every spoonful.

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What Kind of Pastina Should I Use?

Traditional pastina is made with tiny star-shaped pasta, but you can easily substitute other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, orzo, or ditalini if needed. The key is using a pasta small enough to absorb the broth and nestle perfectly into each bite. Make sure not to overcook it, as these tiny shapes can turn mushy fast.

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Ingredients for the Italian Pastina Soup

Chicken Broth – The heart of the soup. A rich, homemade or good-quality store-bought broth forms the base and delivers most of the flavor.

Pastina (or tiny pasta) – The star of the dish. Choose traditional star-shaped pastina or any small pasta shape for a similar effect.

Carrots – Add sweetness and texture. Finely diced or shredded works best for quicker cooking.

Celery – Brings an aromatic, savory element and balance to the carrots.

Garlic – One or two cloves minced to infuse the broth with warmth and depth.

Olive Oil – Used to sauté the vegetables and add that classic Mediterranean flavor.

Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle on top adds a nutty, salty finish that ties it all together.

Fresh Parsley – Adds a touch of color and brightness to the bowl right before serving.

Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning. Adjust to taste.

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How To Make the Italian Pastina Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor.

Step 3: Stir in the Pastina

Add your pastina (or preferred small pasta) to the bubbling broth. Stir to prevent sticking. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook according to the pasta package instructions, usually 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

Once the pastina is tender, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an extra 2 minutes so the flavors come together.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy, nostalgic comfort.

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Serving and Storing Italian Pastina Soup

This soup is best served immediately while the pastina is tender and the broth is hot. Pair it with warm crusty bread or a simple side salad for a light yet filling meal.

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the pasta will continue to absorb the broth over time. If it thickens too much, just add a splash of broth or water when reheating.

Freezing is not recommended, as the pasta can become overly soft when thawed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of pastina?

If you can’t find traditional pastina, small shapes like acini di pepe, orzo, or ditalini work beautifully.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Use a good-quality vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for a satisfying vegetarian version.

Is this soup good for kids?

Yes! It’s actually a favorite for children. The tiny pasta is easy to eat and the mild flavors are kid-friendly.

Can I add chicken or other protein?

Definitely. Shredded rotisserie chicken or diced cooked turkey adds heartiness. Stir it in with the pasta for a protein boost.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding extra broth as needed to loosen the texture.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture, cook the pasta separately and combine just before serving to prevent it from soaking up too much broth.

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Want More Soup Ideas?

If this cozy bowl of Italian Pastina Soup hit the spot, here are more comforting soups you should try next:

• Creamy Shrimp Chowder for rich seafood flavor in every spoonful.
• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for a spicy, hearty twist.
• Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup if you’re craving something exotic and fragrant.
• Zesty Tuscan Artichoke Soup for a Mediterranean flavor adventure.
• Mediterranean White Beans & Greens when you want something wholesome and plant-based.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Nina Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try it with orzo or stick to pastina? Did you toss in some shredded chicken?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Feel free to share tips, tweaks, and your favorite add-ins!

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