Italian Pastina Soup
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth
or other broth or water
- 1 cup acini di pepe
or other tiny pasta
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
or Romano
- 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/8 tsp salt
optional
Directions
- 1
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth (or water) to a boil. If using water, add the salt.
- 2
Add the acini di pepe (or other tiny pasta) to the broth and stir.
- 3
Add in the cheese, stir, and cook according to the package instructions. For the acini di pepe, it’s about 9 minutes.
- 4
Once the pasta has cooked, add the olive oil and sprinkle some more cheese if you'd like.
- 5
Stir and serve warm.
Italian Pastina Soup
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About this Recipe
Craving a truly comforting meal that feels like a warm hug from your Nonna? This Italian Pastina Soup is the ultimate soul-soothing remedy, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a gentle pick-me-up. It's a simple, classic dish that brings pure warmth to your table. What makes this recipe truly special is how the tiny pasta transforms into a delicious risotto-like soup. The small pasta cooks down, releasing starch that thickens the broth, creating a wonderfully creamy texture without any actual cream. It’s a testament to how humble ingredients can create something profoundly satisfying. Prepare to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort. This Pastina soup offers a delicate, savory flavor profile, where the rich notes of chicken broth are beautifully complemented by the nutty, salty essence of grated Parmesan cheese. The small pasta provides a delightful, tender chew, reminiscent of a creamy risotto, while a touch of olive oil adds a subtle richness. It’s a simple yet deeply satisfying experience that feels both nourishing and indulgent. You have plenty of flexibility with this classic. Feel free to swap the chicken broth for another broth or even water if you prefer a lighter base. If acini di pepe isn't available, any tiny pasta will work wonderfully—think stellette, anellini, or even orzo for a slightly different texture. And for the cheese, grated Romano cheese is an excellent alternative to Parmesan, offering a sharper, saltier kick. This comforting pastina soup is ideal as a light lunch or a comforting starter before a heartier Italian meal. It's truly at its best served warm, ready to bring comfort with every spoonful.