Italian Pastina Soup is the ultimate comfort food, a heartwarming bowl of rich broth, tender vegetables, and tiny pasta that melts in your mouth. This classic Italian dish is affectionately known as “Italian penicillin” because of its ability to soothe and nourish, making it a go to meal during chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. The combination of creamy pureed vegetables and the slight chew of pastina makes every bite both delicious and deeply satisfying.
What makes this soup even better is its versatility. You can customize it with additional seasonings, extra veggies, or even a protein boost by adding shredded chicken or Italian sausage. Whether served as a light meal with crusty bread or as a starter for a hearty dinner, this cozy soup is a simple yet flavorful way to bring warmth and comfort to your table.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 yellow or white onion, roughly chopped
- 2 carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 celery sticks, roughly chopped
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 Parmesan rind
- 1 cup pastina pasta (or any small pasta like acini di pepe or stelline)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- In a large pot, combine the chopped onion, carrots, celery, broth, and Parmesan rind. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and let simmer for 20-30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Remove the vegetables from the pot and blend them with ½ 1 cup of broth until smooth. Use either a blender or an immersion blender.
- Return the pureed vegetable mixture to the pot and stir in the pastina. Simmer for 7-9 minutes until the pasta is cooked.
- Turn off the heat and season with grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Italian Pastina Soup: The Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl
A Timeless Italian Classic
Italian Pastina Soup is one of those heartwarming dishes that brings back childhood memories for many. Affectionately known as “Italian penicillin,” this simple yet nourishing soup has been a staple in Italian households for generations. Traditionally made with tiny pastina pasta, a flavorful broth, and often a blend of pureed vegetables, this dish is both comforting and nutritious. It is particularly popular during the colder months, on sick days, or whenever you need a little extra warmth and care.
The beauty of Italian Pastina Soup lies in its simplicity. It is made with minimal ingredients but delivers a deep, rich flavor that feels like a warm hug in every spoonful. Unlike heavier soups and stews, pastina soup is light yet filling, making it a versatile dish that can be served as a starter or a complete meal on its own.
What is Pastina?
Pastina, which means “little pasta” in Italian, refers to tiny pasta shapes that are often used in soups. The most common varieties include:
- Stelline (little stars) – A kid favorite that makes the soup visually appealing.
- Acini di Pepe (tiny round pasta) – Small pearls of pasta that add texture to the broth.
- Orzo – Rice shaped pasta that provides a slightly chewier bite.
Pastina is often associated with childhood meals in Italy, as it is easy to digest and comforting. Parents often prepare a simple bowl of pastina with broth, butter, and Parmesan cheese for their little ones, making it one of the first solid foods many Italian children eat.
Why This Soup is Called “Italian Penicillin”
Like chicken soup in many cultures, Italian Pastina Soup is often recommended for those feeling under the weather. The warm broth helps soothe a sore throat, while the blend of vegetables and pasta provides nourishment without being too heavy on the stomach. The Parmesan rind, a key ingredient, adds an umami depth to the broth, making it even more flavorful.
Many believe that the combination of warm liquid, gentle carbs, and fresh ingredients in this soup helps support the immune system, making it a go to meal for recovery. Whether or not the science backs it up, one thing is certain: a steaming bowl of pastina soup always makes you feel better.
A Versatile and Customizable Dish
One of the best things about Italian Pastina Soup is how easily it can be adapted to different tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few ways to customize this classic dish:
1. Make it Heartier
If you’re looking to make this soup a complete meal, consider adding proteins such as:
- Shredded rotisserie chicken
- Crumbled Italian sausage
- A poached or soft boiled egg on top
2. Add More Vegetables
While the base recipe already includes carrots, celery, and onion, you can pack in even more nutrients by adding:
- Spinach or kale for extra greens
- Zucchini or mushrooms for more texture
- Diced tomatoes for a slight acidity that balances the flavors
3. Switch Up the Broth
While traditional pastina soup is made with chicken broth, you can easily swap it for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian. Bone broth is another excellent option, adding extra protein and collagen for additional health benefits.
4. Boost the Flavor
A simple soup like this allows for endless seasoning variations. You can enhance the taste by adding:
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
- A drizzle of lemon juice for brightness
- A spoonful of pesto for a fresh, herby kick
Serving Suggestions
Italian Pastina Soup is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with other dishes for a complete meal. Here are some ideas for serving:
With Bread
A warm bowl of soup and crusty bread go hand in hand. Consider serving it with:
- Freshly baked Italian bread
- Garlic toast for added flavor
- A slice of focaccia for a soft, chewy contrast
As a Starter
This light soup makes a great first course before heartier Italian dishes like:
- Lasagna
- Chicken Parmesan
- Eggplant Rollatini
With a Side Salad
Balance the warmth of the soup with a refreshing side salad, such as:
- A simple arugula and Parmesan salad
- A classic Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil
- A citrusy fennel salad for a fresh and slightly sweet contrast
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you plan on making a big batch of pastina soup, here are some tips to ensure it stays delicious when stored:
- Keep the Pasta Separate: If you expect leftovers, store the broth and pastina separately to prevent the pasta from soaking up too much liquid and becoming mushy.
- Refrigeration: The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: While the broth and pureed vegetables freeze well, pastina does not. If you plan to freeze the soup, do so before adding the pasta, then cook and add fresh pastina when reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the soup over low heat on the stove. If the broth has thickened too much, add a splash of water or extra broth to reach the desired consistency.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
There are many reasons why Italian Pastina Soup is worth adding to your meal rotation:
Easy to Make – Requires minimal ingredients and simple steps.
Comforting & Nourishing – A warm and cozy meal for any time of the year.
Kid-Friendly – Soft and easy to eat, making it great for little ones.
Customizable – Can be adapted to different tastes and dietary needs.
Perfect for Leftovers – Can be stored and reheated easily.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea, a soothing meal for when you’re feeling sick, or simply a taste of traditional Italian comfort food, this pastina soup is the answer.
Conclusion:
Italian Pastina Soup is a timeless dish that embodies the warmth and simplicity of home cooked meals. From its humble ingredients to its ability to comfort and nourish, this soup is a testament to the power of traditional recipes passed down through generations.
Whether you make it as a quick weekday meal, a remedy for a cold, or just to enjoy a bowl of something cozy, this soup is sure to become a staple in your home. So grab a pot, gather your ingredients, and let this Italian classic fill your kitchen with warmth and love.
Buon appetito!