Italian Pastina Soup: A Comforting Classic

Italian Pastina Soup is a heartwarming dish that embodies the essence of Italian home cooking. With its tiny pasta and wholesome vegetables, this soup is perfect for any season, providing comfort and nourishment. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply in need of a cozy meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Recipe Overview

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories per Serving: Approximately 150 kcal
  • Weight Watchers Points: Approximately 4 points per serving (depending on specific ingredients)

Ingredients

  • 1 cup pastina pasta (stelline or similar shape)
  • 1 brown onion, roughly chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and roughly chopped
  • 2 celery sticks, roughly chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bay leaf (optional)
  • 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Garnish (optional): Chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, drizzle of olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

  1. Chop the Vegetables: Begin by roughly chopping the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic cloves. There’s no need for precision; the goal is to create a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Simmer the Broth

  1. Combine Ingredients in Pot: In a large pot, pour in the vegetable broth. Add the chopped vegetables and the bay leaf if you’re using it.
  2. Season the Broth: Generously season the mixture with salt and black pepper. This will enhance the flavors of the vegetables as they cook.
  3. Cover and Simmer: Place the lid on the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Let it cook for approximately 20 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and infuse the broth with their flavors.

Step 3: Blend the Vegetables

  1. Check for Doneness: After 20 minutes, use a fork to check if the vegetables are tender. They should be soft enough to blend easily.
  2. Discard the Bay Leaf: Remove the bay leaf from the pot, as it’s not meant to be eaten.
  3. Strain the Vegetables: Using a slotted spoon or colander, strain the vegetables from the broth.
  4. Blend Until Smooth: Transfer the cooked vegetables to a blender. Add ½ cup of water and blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Blended Vegetables

  1. Return to Pot: Pour the blended vegetable mixture back into the pot with the vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
  2. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. This is a good time to enhance the flavors before adding the pasta.

Step 5: Cook the Pastina

  1. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat and bring the soup back to a gentle boil.
  2. Add the Pastina: Carefully add the pastina pasta to the boiling broth. Stir immediately to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
  3. Stir Regularly: Cook the pastina according to package instructions, usually about 5-6 minutes, stirring every minute to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Serve the Soup

  1. Check Pasta for Doneness: After the cooking time, check that the pastina is al dente.
  2. Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls. This soup is best enjoyed hot, offering a soothing warmth.

Step 7: Optional Garnishes

  1. Add Garnishes: For an extra touch of flavor and presentation, garnish each bowl with chopped parsley, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. These garnishes not only enhance the soup’s flavor but also make it visually appealing.

Step 8: Enjoy Your Creation

  1. Savor the Flavors: Take a moment to appreciate the aroma of your Italian Pastina Soup before diving in. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal.

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: Approximately 150 kcal per serving
  • Total Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 5g

Weight Watchers Points: Approximately 4 points per serving, depending on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Tips for Success

Ingredient Variations

  • Broth Options: For a richer flavor, consider using chicken broth instead of vegetable broth. Alternatively, low-sodium options can help manage your sodium intake.
  • Vegetable Choices: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand. Spinach, peas, or even diced zucchini can make delightful additions to this soup.

Cooking Tips

  • Pasta Cooking Time: Be sure to check the pastina regularly to avoid overcooking. It can become mushy if left unattended for too long.
  • Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much.

Serving Suggestions

  • As a Light Meal: This soup makes a satisfying light meal on its own or can be paired with a slice of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a more filling dinner.
  • Kid-Friendly: The small size of the pastina makes this soup appealing to children. Serve it with a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Italian Pastina Soup is a timeless dish that warms both the body and the soul. Its simple ingredients come together to create a meal that is both comforting and nourishing. Whether you’re sharing it with family on a chilly evening or enjoying it solo, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home.

By following this detailed recipe, you can easily recreate this comforting classic and enjoy the flavors of Italy right in your kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, this soup embodies the love and warmth of home-cooked meals. Enjoy the process of making it and the joy of sharing it with others!