🍲 Pastina Soup (Italian Comfort Soup)

Pastina Soup is a classic Italian comfort dish made with tiny pasta, flavorful broth, vegetables, and a touch of Parmesan. Known as a cozy “soul-soothing” meal, it’s simple, nourishing, and especially loved as a family favorite.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4–6

---

🛒 Ingredients

Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Pasta & Finish

• 1 cup pastina (tiny star-shaped pasta) or another small pasta
• 2 large eggs (optional, for a richer Italian-style version)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

---

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetable Base

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery.
3. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
4. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Simmer the Soup

1. Pour in the chicken broth.
2. Add bay leaf, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a gentle boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes to develop flavor.

3. Cook the Pastina

1. Remove the bay leaf.
2. Add the pastina and cook according to package directions (usually 5–8 minutes).
3. Stir occasionally because tiny pasta can stick to the bottom.

4. Add the Egg & Cheese Finish (Optional)

For a traditional creamy texture:

1. Whisk eggs with Parmesan cheese.
2. Slowly drizzle the mixture into the hot soup while stirring.
3. Cook for 1–2 minutes until silky.

5. Serve

• Stir in butter and fresh parsley.
• Add extra Parmesan.
• Finish with a squeeze of lemon if desired.

---

🍽️ Optional Add-Ins

• Shredded cooked chicken 🍗
• Spinach or kale
• Peas
• Zucchini
• White beans
• Extra vegetables
• A swirl of olive oil before serving

---

🥣 Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Fiber: 3 g

(Nutrition varies depending on broth, pasta, and toppings.)

---

💡 Tips for the Best Pastina Soup

✅ Use homemade chicken broth for the deepest flavor.
✅ Cook pastina separately if storing leftovers—the pasta absorbs broth quickly.
✅ Add Parmesan rind while simmering for a richer, savory taste.
✅ For a protein boost, add shredded chicken or an extra egg.
✅ Serve immediately while the texture is creamy and comforting. 🍲✨