Description
This pastina soup recipe is a classic Italian comfort food, made with tiny pasta, rich broth, and simple ingredients Quick, warm, and nourishing, it’s perfect for cold days, easy dinners, or when you need a cozy meal
Ingredients
1 ½ cups pastina pasta (or small pasta like orzo, acini di pepe)
6 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
1 medium yellow onion chopped
2 carrots peeled and diced
2 celery stalks sliced
1 parmesan rind (for extra flavor)
1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
Grated parmesan cheese for serving
Optional Add-Ins
Shredded chicken for a heartier meal
Lemon juice adds freshness
Garlic & thyme enhances flavor
Butter or cream for a richer texture
Instructions
Prepare the Broth
In a large pot combine chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, and parmesan rind
Bring to a boil then simmer for 20-30 minutes
Blend for a Smooth Base (Optional)
Remove the parmesan rind
Blend some of the veggies with a little broth and return them to the pot for a creamier texture
Cook the Pastina
Bring the broth back to a boil
Stir in the pastina pasta and cook for 3 minutes until tender
Serve & Enjoy
Adjust seasoning if needed
Pour into bowls garnish with fresh parsley and grated parmesan and serve hot
Notes
Cook pastina separately if making ahead as it absorbs broth quickly
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days Reheat with extra broth if needed
For a vegetarian version use vegetable broth and add extra veggies
For a richer soup stir in butter or a splash of cream before serving
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: pastina soup recipe Italian pastina soup pastina in brodo homemade pastina soup tiny pasta soup comforting chicken broth soup easy Italian soup