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Pastina Soup Recipe

Why You’ll Love Pastina Soup?

Pastina soup is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and ready in just 20 minutes! This Italian classic is perfect for chilly nights, busy weeknights, or whenever you need a quick, nourishing meal. Its delicate star-shaped pasta and rich broth make it a favorite for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize it with your favorite veggies, proteins, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor. If you love easy, cozy meals, you’ll adore this Italian-inspired dish that brings warmth to every spoonful.

Ingredients to make pastina soup

• 1 cup pastina (or any small pasta like orzo or stars)
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium recommended)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Time needed to make pastina soup

This comforting pastina soup comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s the breakdown:

• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes

For other quick meal ideas that fit into tight schedules, check out our collection of easy ground turkey recipes that can be ready in 30 minutes or less.

Quick Steps to Make Pastina Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, minced garlic, and chopped carrots. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This builds the flavor base for your pastina soup.

Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, then stir in dried thyme, a bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. For extra richness, you can also add a parmesan rind while simmering.

Step 3: Cook the Pastina

Once the broth is boiling, stir in the pastina pasta. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender but still firm to the bite.

Step 4: Finish with Greens and Protein

If using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 2 minutes of cooking. For added protein, mix in shredded chicken or white beans. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the hot pastina soup into bowls. Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and chopped parsley. Serve immediately with crusty bread on the side.

Is pastina soup healthy and nutritious ?

Pastina soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. A typical bowl contains around 150–200 calories, with a balanced mix of carbs, protein, and healthy fats. The star ingredient, pastina (tiny pasta), provides energy-boosting carbohydrates, while the broth base keeps it light yet hydrating. Adding vegetables like carrots or spinach boosts fiber and vitamins, making it a wholesome choice. For protein, consider tossing in lean ground turkey or shredded chicken—both excellent options to enhance its nutritional profile.

If you’re looking for a heartier version, try pairing it with slow-cooker Italian meatballs for extra protein. For a vegetarian twist, check out this vegan split pea soup as a complementary dish. The simplicity of pastina soup also makes it easy to modify—swap regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives if needed. For more nutrient-dense meal ideas, explore our chicken cauliflower fried rice or this protein-rich steak bites recipe.

Can I make pastina soup healthier and still delicious?

Absolutely! Pastina soup can easily be transformed into a lighter, nutrient-packed meal without sacrificing flavor. Here are some simple swaps to boost its health benefits while keeping it just as comforting:

Use Whole Grain Pastina

Opt for whole wheat or chickpea-based pastina instead of the traditional refined version. These alternatives add fiber and protein, making your soup more filling and nutritious. For more high-protein meal ideas, check out these ground turkey recipes.

Load Up on Veggies

Add extra vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini for vitamins and minerals. Sauté them lightly before adding broth for deeper flavor. If you love veggie-packed dishes, try this vegetarian enchiladas recipe.

Choose Low-Sodium Broth

Reduce salt without losing taste by using homemade or low-sodium broth. Herbs like thyme and rosemary enhance flavor naturally. For more healthy cooking tips, explore these air fryer recipes.

Swap Cream for Greek Yogurt

Instead of heavy cream, stir in plain Greek yogurt at the end for creaminess with added protein. Learn more about balancing flavors in soups from this split pea soup guide.

With these tweaks, your pastina soup stays cozy but becomes a powerhouse of nutrition!

How to Serve Pastina Soup?

Pastina soup is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes. For a cozy meal, serve it with a slice of crusty bread or a simple vegetarian side dish to keep things light. If you’re craving extra comfort, try pairing it with cheesy pasta for a heartier spread.

For a refreshing contrast, add a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. If you love bold flavors, top your pastina soup with grated Parmesan, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil. For more inspiration, check out these easy side dishes or soup pairings to elevate your meal.

Avoid These Mistakes

Making pastina soup seems simple, but small errors can affect texture and flavor. Here are common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

Overcooking the Pastina

Pastina cooks quickly—just 4-5 minutes. Leaving it too long turns it mushy. For perfect pastina soup, stir frequently and taste-test early. If meal prepping, cook pasta separately and add it when reheating.

Using Weak Broth

Bland broth makes bland soup. Opt for high-quality chicken or vegetable stock. For depth, try simmering bones with aromatics like in this slow-cooker broth method. Or boost store-bought broth with a Parmesan rind.

Skipping the Finishing Touches

A drizzle of olive oil, fresh herbs, or grated cheese elevates pastina soup from basic to brilliant. For inspiration, see how restaurant-style garnishes transform simple dishes.

Storing Soup with Pasta

Pasta absorbs liquid when refrigerated. Store components separately, or expect a thicker texture. Learn pro storage tricks from our casserole storage guide.

Underseasoning

Salt in stages: season the broth, then adjust after adding pastina. For flavor-building tips, this soup recipe demonstrates layering spices effectively.

The best way to store leftover pastina soup

Pastina soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. To keep it fresh, transfer cooled leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to restore the soup’s creamy texture.

For meal prep, consider freezing individual servings for quick lunches—just thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove. If you love easy freezer meals, check out our slow-cooker Italian meatballs for another make-ahead option. For more storage hacks, this guide covers best practices for preserving soups and stews.

Pro tip: Avoid storing pastina soup with added dairy (like cream or cheese) for long periods, as it may separate upon reheating. Instead, stir in fresh dairy when serving. Craving more comfort food? Try our loaded bacon cheeseburger pasta or explore this vegan split pea soup for a hearty alternative.

Ready to give pastina soup a try?

This comforting pastina soup is the perfect quick meal for busy weeknights or chilly evenings. With its rich flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. If you love easy, hearty meals, check out our ground turkey recipes or Amish hamburger bake for more family-friendly options.

For a lighter twist, pair it with our chicken cauliflower fried rice, or explore other cozy dishes like loaded bacon cheeseburger pasta. Once you taste this pastina soup, it might just become your new go-to comfort food!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pastina soup?

Pastina soup is a comforting Italian dish made with tiny pasta (pastina), broth, and simple ingredients like vegetables or protein. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for cozy meals.

Can I use different pasta for pastina soup?

Yes! While traditional pastina soup uses tiny star-shaped pasta, you can substitute with orzo, ditalini, or even broken-up spaghetti for a similar texture.

How long does pastina soup last in the fridge?

Properly stored in an airtight container, pastina soup stays fresh for 3-4 days. The pasta may absorb more broth over time, so add a splash of water when reheating.

Is pastina soup good for meal prep?

Absolutely! Pastina soup reheats well, making it great for meal prep. For best results, store the broth and pasta separately if preparing more than 2 days in advance.

Can I make pastina soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip any meat additions. For extra flavor, add mushrooms or a Parmesan rind while simmering.