Description: A comforting and nourishing Italian soup featuring tiny star-shaped pasta (pastina) simmered in a flavorful broth with softened tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. This simple yet satisfying soup is known for its soothing properties and is often referred to as “Italian Penicillin” due to its ability to comfort and heal.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Chicken Broth (low sodium preferred, can substitute with vegetable broth)
- 1 1/2 cups Pastina pasta (small star-shaped pasta, also known as Stelline)
- 6 Cherry tomatoes (ripe and firm)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Broth: Pour the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) into a large pot. Place the pot over high heat and bring the broth to a rolling boil. Using low-sodium broth is recommended to control the salt levels in the final dish, as Parmesan cheese also contributes to the sodium content. If using regular broth, taste it before adding any additional salt later in the recipe.
Step 2: Blanch and Peel the Tomatoes: While the broth is heating, wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Using a paring knife, carefully make a shallow X-shaped incision at the bottom (stem end) of each tomato. This incision will make it easier to peel the tomatoes after blanching.
Step 3: Soften the Tomatoes: Heat water in a kettle or saucepan until boiling. Transfer the boiling water to a heatproof bowl. Gently place the cherry tomatoes into the hot water and let them soak for 2 to 3 minutes. This process, called blanching, loosens the skin of the tomatoes.
Step 4: Peel and Chop: After soaking, carefully remove the tomatoes from the hot water with a slotted spoon. Allow them to cool slightly for a moment, then use a paring knife to peel the skin away from the incision. The skin should slip off easily. Once peeled, roughly chop the tomatoes. The texture can be diced or cut into quarters.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Pastina: Once the broth is boiling vigorously, add the chopped tomatoes to the pot. The tomatoes will infuse their flavor into the broth as it simmers. Next, add the pastina pasta to the boiling broth. Stir gently to ensure the pastina doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
Step 6: Cook the Pastina: Reduce the heat to medium and maintain a gentle simmer. Cook the pastina according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still slightly firm to the bite (al dente). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. It’s crucial to monitor the cooking time closely, as pastina can overcook quickly and become mushy.
Step 7: Finishing Touches: Once the pastina is cooked to your liking, turn off the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The heat from the soup will melt the cheese, creating a creamy and flavorful broth. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the soup.
Step 8: Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Remember that Parmesan cheese is salty, so add salt sparingly. Serve the Pastina Soup immediately in warm bowls.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Pastina Soup recipe is incredibly comforting and easy to make, making it a perfect choice for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or when you are feeling under the weather. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavors of the broth, tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese to shine through. The tiny star-shaped pastina adds a delightful texture to the soup, making it appealing to both children and adults. Beyond its delicious taste, Pastina Soup is also believed to have healing properties, thanks to the nourishing broth and easily digestible pasta. It’s truly a bowl of warmth and comfort that will leave you feeling satisfied and rejuvenated. The quick cooking time makes it ideal for busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Pastina Soup piping hot in a soup bowl.
- Garnish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the broth.
- For a heartier meal, add cooked shredded chicken or meatballs to the soup.
- A simple side salad pairs well with Pastina Soup for a balanced meal.
- For added freshness, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil.
Tips:
- Broth Quality: Use a high-quality broth for the best flavor. Homemade broth is ideal, but good-quality store-bought broth works well too.
- Pastina Type: While stelline (star-shaped) is the most common type of pastina, other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe (peppercorns) or orzo can also be used.
- Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the pastina, as it can become mushy. Cook it until it’s al dente.
- Cheese Options: Pecorino Romano cheese can be used instead of Parmesan cheese for a slightly sharper flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini for a vegetarian version.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the broth ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add the pastina just before serving.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Lemon Juice: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Sodium: 400-600mg (depending on the broth used)
Conclusion:
Pastina Soup, affectionately known as “Italian Penicillin,” is more than just a simple soup; it’s a heartwarming tradition that brings comfort and nourishment. Its quick preparation, comforting flavors, and easily customizable ingredients make it a staple in many households. Whether you’re seeking a soothing remedy for a cold or simply craving a delicious and satisfying meal, this Pastina Soup recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the simplicity and warmth of this classic Italian soup!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different type of pasta if I don’t have pastina?
- Yes, absolutely! While stelline (star-shaped) pastina is the traditional choice, you can easily substitute it with other small pasta shapes such as acini di pepe (peppercorns), orzo, ditalini, or even broken pieces of spaghetti. The key is to choose a pasta shape that cooks quickly and provides a similar texture to pastina. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions for your chosen pasta.
- Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian/vegan?
- Yes, it is! To make Pastina Soup vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. For a vegan version, ensure that the vegetable broth is vegan-friendly (some may contain animal-derived ingredients). Also, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative. You can also add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the soup.
- Can I add protein to make this soup more filling?
- Definitely! Adding protein to Pastina Soup is a great way to make it a more substantial meal. You can add cooked shredded chicken, small meatballs, or even chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian/vegan option. Add the protein towards the end of the cooking process to heat it through without overcooking it.
- How can I store leftover Pastina Soup?
- Leftover Pastina Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the pasta will continue to absorb the broth as it sits, so the soup may become thicker over time. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency. It’s best to reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
- Why is it called “Italian Penicillin”?
- Pastina Soup has earned the nickname “Italian Penicillin” because it’s known for its soothing and comforting properties, especially when you’re feeling under the weather. The warm broth helps to hydrate and soothe a sore throat, while the easily digestible pasta provides a source of energy. The simple, wholesome ingredients make it a gentle and nourishing meal that can help you feel better when you’re sick. It’s a comforting tradition passed down through generations in many Italian families.
