Traditional Italian Pastina Soup

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This Traditional Italian Pastina Soup is the kind of dish that wraps you up like a cozy blanket. It’s simple, humble, and deeply comforting—a classic Italian nonna recipe that brings back memories of being nurtured and cared for. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want something warm and satisfying, this little pasta soup does the trick every time.

Made with star-shaped pastina, a light tomato broth, and finished with a sprinkle of parmesan and herbs, this soup comes together with pantry staples and very little effort. Despite its simplicity, the flavor is wholesome and hearty. It’s ideal as a light meal, a starter, or even a feel-better remedy on chilly evenings.

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Why You’ll Love This Traditional Italian Pastina Soup

• Nostalgic & Nourishing: Perfect for when you need a little comfort in a bowl.
• Quick to Prepare: Takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples like broth, pastina, tomatoes, and parmesan.
• Kid-Friendly: The small pasta shape and mild flavor make it a hit with little ones.
• Versatile: Add shredded chicken, spinach, or a soft-cooked egg to make it heartier.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment:

• Medium Saucepan or Soup Pot: This is your go-to for evenly cooking the broth and pasta together. Nonstick or stainless steel both work great.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Helps stir the soup gently without breaking the delicate pasta.
• Ladle: For easy and clean serving into bowls.
• Microplane Grater: To freshly grate parmesan cheese, which enhances flavor and melts beautifully.
• Fine Mesh Strainer (optional): If you’re using homemade broth, this helps clarify it before using.

Each of these tools keeps the cooking process clean, smooth, and efficient. While it’s a straightforward recipe, a good setup makes it even easier.

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Ingredients for the Traditional Italian Pastina Soup

• Pastina (tiny star pasta): The heart of this dish, giving it its name and soft, silky texture.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: The base of the soup; opt for high-quality or homemade for best flavor.
• Crushed Tomatoes: Adds gentle acidity and a subtle richness to the broth.
• Garlic: Just a clove or two enhances the savory profile without overpowering.
• Olive Oil or Butter: For sautéing and adding smoothness.
• Salt and Pepper: To balance and season.
• Parmesan Cheese: A finishing touch that adds creaminess and depth.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Brings a pop of color and freshness.

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How To Make the Traditional Italian Pastina Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

In a medium pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Broth

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir to combine, then bring to a gentle boil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Add the Pastina

Once the broth is boiling, stir in the pastina. Lower the heat slightly and simmer uncovered for about 6-8 minutes, or until the pastina is tender.

Step 4: Finish the Soup

Remove from heat. Stir in grated parmesan and chopped parsley if using. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with more parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or even a poached egg if you like.

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Serving and Storing Traditional Italian Pastina Soup

Serve this soup piping hot with extra parmesan on top and a slice of crusty bread on the side. It makes a delightful lunch or light dinner.

For storing, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water since the pasta will continue to absorb liquid over time.

If you plan to freeze it, consider cooking the pastina separately and adding it fresh when reheating, as frozen pastina can become mushy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of pasta is pastina?

Pastina refers to tiny pasta shapes often used in soups. The most common is the star-shaped stelline, but acini di pepe or orzo can be used in a pinch.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the cheese or use a vegetarian-friendly version.

Can I add protein to make it more filling?

Yes, you can stir in shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked Italian sausage, or even a soft-boiled egg.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pastina or substitute with tiny gluten-free pasta or rice.

Is this safe for babies and toddlers?

Yes, it’s one of the most common first soups for kids. Use low-sodium broth and avoid adding salt until serving.

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Want More Soup Ideas?

If you’re into cozy bowls like this Traditional Italian Pastina Soup, check out these comforting dishes too:

• Hearty Italian Sausage Soup
• Easy Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup
• Authentic Tom Kha Gai Soup
• Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
• Mediterranean White Beans & Greens

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add veggies or some leftover roast chicken? Did you top it with egg or stick with classic cheese?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook with heart.

Find more daily comfort recipes on my Pinterest: Kitchen By Kate

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