Pastina Soup

When the weather turns chilly or you’re in need of some comforting warmth, Pastina Soup is the perfect choice. This classic Italian soup combines tiny pasta with a savory broth and a touch of Parmesan cheese to create a bowl of pure comfort. Quick and easy to make, it’s ideal for those cozy days when you need a bit of extra warmth.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pastina (tiny pasta)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

1. In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
3. Stir in the pastina and cook until the pasta is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, beat the egg and Parmesan cheese together.
5. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the pot, stirring continuously to create thin strands of cooked egg throughout the soup.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 bowls
• Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per serving

Variations

• Vegetable Broth: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Add-ins: Incorporate cooked vegetables such as spinach or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
• Herbs: Add other herbs like thyme or basil for additional flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This soup is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. To avoid overcooking the pasta, you may want to freeze the soup without the pastina and cook it fresh when reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat until warmed through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of pasta?
   Yes, if you don’t have pastina, you can use small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini.
2. How can I make this soup creamier?
   Stir in a splash of cream or milk just before serving for a creamier texture.
3. Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time, but it’s best to add the pasta just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
4. Can I use homemade chicken broth?
   Absolutely, homemade chicken broth will add a rich and flavorful base to the soup.
5. How do I make this soup more filling?
   Add cooked chicken or beans for a more substantial meal.
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can use any cheese you like, such as Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano.
7. What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
   You can use dried parsley or simply omit it.
8. How do I avoid the egg from curdling?
   Ensure you add the egg mixture slowly while stirring to create a smooth texture.
9. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can cook the broth and pastina in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours. Add the egg and cheese mixture just before serving.
10. Is there a gluten-free option for this soup?
    Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the broth is gluten-free for a gluten-free version.

Conclusion

Pastina Soup is a simple yet delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any cold day. Its ease of preparation and heartwarming flavors make it a perfect choice for a quick meal or a comforting bowl when you need a bit of extra care. Enjoy this classic Italian soup as a nourishing treat that’s sure to please!

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