Simple Italian Pastina Soup – A Comforting Classic

There’s something deeply nostalgic about a bowl of pastina soup. For me, this humble dish brings back memories of cozy afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the scent of simmering broth filled the air and a pot of pastina was always ready to soothe any ache — be it hunger or heart. Though this recipe is simple, it carries the soul of comfort food and a warm embrace in every spoonful.

In this article, you’ll discover how to prepare a traditional yet timeless pastina recipe that’s both quick and nourishing. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for anyone seeking a delicious, no-fuss meal with deep Italian-American roots.

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What is Pastina?

Pastina, meaning “little pasta” in Italian, refers to the smallest shapes of pasta. The classic “stelline” or star-shaped version is most commonly used in soups. For generations, Italian and Italian-American households have turned to pastina for its simplicity and comfort — often as a child’s first solid food, or as a go-to meal when feeling under the weather.

Although tiny in size, pastina holds a cherished place in Italian culinary tradition. It’s like a culinary lullaby — easy to digest, quick to prepare, and endlessly soothing.

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Why You’ll Love This Pastina Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 15 minutes with just a handful of ingredients.
• Comforting: A true warm hug in a bowl.
• Flexible: Can be dressed up with herbs, veggies, or even an egg for a heartier version.
• Family-friendly: Ideal for toddlers and adults alike.

Whether you’re feeling a little nostalgic or simply want something gentle and wholesome, this pastina recipe has you covered.

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Ingredients

To make two hearty servings of this simple Italian pastina soup, you’ll need:

• ¾ cup (120g) pastina (stelline or other small pasta shape)
• 3 cups (720ml) vegetable broth (low-sodium recommended)
• 4 tbsp (20g) finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp (15ml) extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Additional grated Parmesan
• Cracked black pepper

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Instructions

1. Simmer the Broth

In a medium saucepan, pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. If you’re using unsalted broth, season lightly with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Cover the pot to help it heat up more quickly.

2. Cook the Pastina

Stir in the pastina once the broth reaches a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and cook the pasta uncovered for 5 to 8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the tiny pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

You’ll know it’s ready when the pastina is tender but still holds its shape — don’t let it get mushy!

3. Finish with Parmesan and Olive Oil

Turn off the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and olive oil. The cheese will melt into the hot broth, adding richness and depth to the soup. Let it sit for 1 to 2 minutes to thicken slightly.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls. For extra flavor, top each bowl with a drizzle of olive oil, more grated Parmesan, and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. Serve warm, with crusty bread on the side if desired.

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Tips for the Perfect Pastina Recipe

• Use homemade broth if you have it — it adds layers of flavor and love.
• Try different pasta shapes like acini di pepe, orzo, or ditalini if stelline isn’t available.
• Make it creamy by stirring in a beaten egg after removing the pot from heat (known as “stracciatella”).
• Add vegetables like peas, finely chopped carrots, or spinach for a nutritional boost.

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Variations to Try

This pastina soup is a perfect blank canvas. Here are a few ways to personalize your bowl:

Egg Drop Pastina

Whisk an egg and drizzle it into the hot broth while stirring to create silky strands. A classic Italian twist that adds protein and texture.

Chicken Pastina Soup

Add shredded cooked chicken for a heartier meal — a great way to use leftovers.

Lemon & Herb Pastina

Brighten things up with a squeeze of lemon juice and a handful of fresh parsley or dill.

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 9g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate.

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Why This Pastina Recipe is an American Favorite

While pastina soup hails from Italian roots, it has long been a staple in American kitchens, especially among Italian-American families. Its popularity grew because of its simplicity, affordability, and versatility. It’s the dish that says “I care,” often prepared when someone’s sick, sad, or just in need of a little comfort.

This version, made with vegetable broth and finished with olive oil and Parmesan, is the essence of comfort with a whisper of indulgence.

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Share Your Bowl!

Have you tried this pastina recipe at home? Did you add your own twist — maybe a poached egg, some lemon zest, or a handful of spinach? I’d love to hear how you made it your own!

Leave a comment below or tag us on social media with your delicious creation. Your version might just inspire someone else to give this classic a try.

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The Heart of Italian Comfort Cooking

Italian cooking is often praised for its depth of flavor, yet it’s the simplicity and heart of the cuisine that leave a lasting impression. Few dishes capture this better than pastina soup. It’s not flashy or complex — it’s the kind of dish that relies on quality ingredients and a bit of patience. That’s the beauty of traditional Italian home cooking: it’s less about perfection and more about soul.

For generations, pastina has been the kind of meal prepared by nonnas (grandmothers) across Italy and in Italian-American homes around the world. It’s often the first dish given to toddlers and the last one served to the elderly — a quiet testament to how universally beloved it is. This soup carries generational stories, memories, and love, spoon by spoon.

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A Pantry Staple With Endless Possibilities

One of the reasons pastina soup has stood the test of time is its adaptability. The base ingredients are kitchen staples: pasta, broth, cheese, and olive oil. Yet from that base, the variations are endless.

Busy weeknight? Make it as-is in 10 minutes flat.
Cooking for kids? Add tiny peas or bits of soft carrots.
Trying to recover from a cold? Add garlic, a squeeze of lemon, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

With a little imagination, this dish can wear many hats — breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s also incredibly budget-friendly, making it a favorite among students, new parents, and anyone seeking wholesome nourishment without fuss.

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Choosing the Right Broth: The Flavor Foundation

In such a minimalist dish, every ingredient plays a starring role — especially the broth. While this pastina recipe calls for vegetable broth, you can easily substitute chicken broth or even a homemade stock if you have the time.

Here’s a quick broth breakdown:

• Vegetable Broth: Light, earthy, and perfect for a vegetarian option.
• Chicken Broth: Richer, with a more traditional comfort-food profile.
• Homemade Broth: Ultimate depth and control over sodium and flavor.

If you’re buying broth, opt for low-sodium so you can control the seasoning. And if you’re feeling extra crafty, simmering a few aromatics (onion, garlic, celery) into your store-bought broth can elevate the flavor tremendously.

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Parmesan Cheese: More Than Just a Topping

In Italian cuisine, Parmigiano-Reggiano is more than just a sprinkle of cheese — it’s a flavor enhancer. Its sharp, nutty, and umami-rich profile brings the broth and pasta together, adding body and savoriness.

For best results, use finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or Grana Padano. Avoid pre-packaged, powdered cheese as it may contain anti-caking agents that won’t melt well and can alter the texture of your soup.

Pro tip: Save your Parmesan rinds in the freezer and add one to your broth while it simmers — it infuses an irresistible depth of flavor.

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Olive Oil: The Liquid Gold of Italian Kitchens

Olive oil might seem like a minor detail in this recipe, but its role is critical. It enriches the texture of the soup, adds subtle fruitiness, and ties all the flavors together. A drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil just before serving turns this humble soup into something deeply satisfying.

If you enjoy bold flavors, experiment with robust, peppery varieties. For a more delicate touch, go for a buttery, mellow olive oil. A finishing drizzle right before serving is not just a garnish — it’s a final kiss of Italian sunshine.

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Kids Love Pastina — And Here’s Why

If you’re a parent, you’ll be glad to know that pastina is a kid-friendly superstar. The tiny size is fun to eat, it’s soft enough for toddlers, and the simple flavor is comforting and familiar. Even picky eaters often can’t resist it!

To make it more enticing for children:

• Add a pat of butter instead of olive oil.
• Use alphabet pasta for a fun twist.
• Stir in a soft-boiled or poached egg for extra protein.

This dish grows with your family, shifting from a toddler meal to a teen’s after-school snack to a cozy adult dinner. It’s a recipe that matures alongside the people who eat it.

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How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Pastina soup is best enjoyed fresh, as the tiny pasta absorbs broth quickly. However, if you have leftovers, here’s how to make the most of them:

To Store:

• Cool completely and transfer to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To Reheat:

• Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of additional broth or water to loosen it up.
• Stir frequently and add more Parmesan or olive oil before serving to restore creaminess.

Avoid freezing, as the texture of the pastina may become mushy after thawing.

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The History Behind Pastina

Pastina has humble origins in Southern Italy, where thrifty, resourceful cooking was a necessity. It was born out of the need to stretch ingredients and make simple meals feel filling and satisfying. Though the exact history is hard to trace, pastina’s presence in Italian-American cuisine soared in the 20th century, when immigrants brought it with them to the United States.

What started as a peasant dish became a comforting ritual across generations. Today, it’s still one of the most beloved forms of Italian comfort food in homes all over the world.

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What to Serve With Pastina Soup

While pastina soup is wonderfully satisfying on its own, here are a few light companions to round out your meal:

• Crusty sourdough or Italian bread
• Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables or garlic green beans
• Simple tomato bruschetta

Want to make it a multi-course Italian dinner? Start with this soup, follow with a light pasta or risotto, and finish with tiramisu or panna cotta.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is pastina gluten-free?

Traditional pastina is made with wheat semolina. However, gluten-free options made from rice or corn are available and work well in this recipe.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based Parmesan alternative or skip the cheese altogether. Just be sure your broth is vegan.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! This recipe scales beautifully. Just maintain the pasta-to-broth ratio and taste as you go when seasoning.

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