This warm and cozy Italian Pastina Soup is perfect for chilly days! It features tiny pasta swimming in a flavorful broth with veggies and herbs that tickle your taste buds.
Whenever I make this soup, I feel like I’m wrapped in a warm blanket. It’s quick to whip up and always leaves a smile on my face—just like Grandma used to make! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive oil: This is the base for sautéing your veggies. If you don’t have olive oil, feel free to use canola or avocado oil. They both work well and won’t alter the taste too much!
Onion, Carrot, and Celery: These three are known as the holy trinity in many soups, bringing sweetness and depth. If you’re out of celery, you can skip it or use bell peppers for a similar effect.
Pastina: This tiny pasta is key to the soup’s charm! If you can’t find pastina, any small pasta will do like ditalini, or even couscous can be a fun substitute.
Broth: You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or homemade broth, if you have it. I always recommend low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of your soup.
Parsley and Basil: Fresh herbs add brightness! If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones can work—just use less, since they are more concentrated. I often add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for added flavor.
How Do You Make the Perfect Soup Base?
The soup base is vital for great flavor. Start by sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil. This step releases the flavors and builds a solid foundation for your soup.
- Heat the olive oil until shimmering, then add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery.
- Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they soften but don’t brown. Stir occasionally!
- Add garlic last, as it only needs a minute to release its aroma before adding the broth.
This method ensures all the flavors develop beautifully, giving your soup the heartwarming taste everyone loves!
Delicious Italian Pastina Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
Pasta & Seasoning:
- 1 cup pastina pasta (tiny star-shaped or acini di pepe)
- 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
For Garnishing:
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Italian Pastina Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, making a total of around 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and comforting meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, throw in the chopped onion, diced carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This step is crucial because garlic adds a fantastic aroma to the soup!
3. Bring the Broth to a Boil:
Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a robust boil. This is when all those lovely flavors start to come together!
4. Cook the Pastina:
Once boiling, add the pastina pasta and the canned diced tomatoes if you’re using them. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let the soup cook uncovered for about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick.
5. Season & Add Fresh Herbs:
After the pasta is tender, stir in the chopped parsley and dried oregano. Taste your soup and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and add fresh basil leaves for a pop of flavor, if you like. To finish, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. It’s wonderful to enjoy with some warm, crusty bread on the side!
This classic Italian Pastina Soup is an easy, nourishing dish that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your stomach. Perfect for any occasion or just because you want something comforting!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! If you can’t find pastina, any small pasta like ditalini or even orzo can work well. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, as larger pasta may take longer to become tender.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’re all set. This will keep the soup flavorful and perfect for vegetarians!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You may need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating, as the pasta will absorb some of the liquid.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to include other vegetables like spinach, peas, or zucchini. Just add them along with the broth to ensure they cook through. Enjoy experimenting!
