Pastina Soup is a light, flavorful soup made with small pasta (pastina) in a broth that’s often infused with the delicate flavors of vegetables and herbs. It’s a simple and nourishing dish, perfect for when you want something quick yet comforting. You can make it with just a few pantry staples and adjust the ingredients to your liking. It’s particularly soothing when you’re under the weather!

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup pastina (small pasta like acini di pepe, stelline, or orzo)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
  2. Add the broth and seasonings: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and stir in the oregano (or Italian seasoning). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  3. Cook the pastina: Add the pastina to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. If you’re adding greens like spinach or kale, stir them in about 2 minutes before the soup is done to let them wilt.
  4. Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you’d like it more flavorful, you can add more dried herbs.
  5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for garnish, if desired. Serve hot!

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 3mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Potassium: 450mg
  • Vitamin A: 90% DV
  • Vitamin C: 15% DV
  • Calcium: 6% DV
  • Iron: 8% DV

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

This Pastina Soup is easy to make and provides a light, comforting meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying.