Description
Pastina Soup is a comforting and cozy Italian dish, perfect for chilly days or when you need a simple, soothing meal. Small, delicate pasta (pastina) is simmered in a flavorful broth, often with a touch of egg and Parmesan for added richness. A classic favorite, especially for those feeling under the weather!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1/2 cup pastina (small pasta, such as stars or tiny shells)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth:
- In a medium-sized pot, heat the chicken (or vegetable) broth over medium heat until simmering.
- Cook the Aromatics:
- In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Pasta:
- Once the broth is simmering, add the pastina to the pot and cook according to the package directions, typically about 5-7 minutes, or until al dente.
- Create the Egg Mixture:
- In a small bowl, beat the egg and mix it with the grated Parmesan cheese. Set aside.
- Finish the Soup:
- Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Slowly pour the egg and Parmesan mixture into the soup while stirring constantly. The heat from the soup will gently cook the egg, creating a creamy texture in the broth.
- Season:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a little extra Parmesan cheese on top for more flavor.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- For extra richness, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter.
- Feel free to add vegetables such as carrots or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- This soup is great with a slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 75mg