If you are craving a bowl of pure comfort that’s quick to make yet rich in tradition and flavor, this Italian Pastina Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic Italian dish brings together tiny pastina pasta swimming in a warm, golden chicken broth, harmoniously enriched by tender egg ribbons and a kiss of Parmesan. It’s the kind of soup that feels like a gentle hug from Nonna’s kitchen, nourishing both body and soul in just minutes. Whether you want a cozy starter or a light meal, this recipe delivers simple, heartwarming Italian goodness effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a few simple ingredients is all it takes to create this soul-soothing soup. Each item plays a pivotal role, whether it’s the savory depth from the chicken broth, the creamy texture from butter, or the delicate nuttiness of Parmesan cheese, creating layers of flavor that make this dish unforgettable.
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium): Provides the flavorful base and keeps the soup light yet savory.
- 3/4 cup pastina pasta: Tiny pasta like stelline or acini di pepe work wonderfully, adding that perfect tender bite.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the broth.
- 1 large egg: Whisked in to create silk-like egg ribbons, mimicking classic egg drop soup.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving): Infuses a savory umami punch and creamy texture.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing flavors.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Brings a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color.
How to Make Italian Pastina Soup Recipe
Step 1: Bring the Broth to a Boil
Start by pouring your chicken broth into a medium saucepan and warming it over medium heat until it reaches a gentle boil. A slow, steady boil is perfect—it’s enough to cook your pastina without rushing it, preserving that lovely broth flavor.
Step 2: Add the Pastina and Cook
Once boiling, stir in the pastina pasta. Most packages recommend 5 to 7 minutes of cooking for perfect tenderness, so keep an eye on the texture and avoid overcooking to prevent mushiness. The tiny pasta should remain al dente to give the soup a nice bite.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg and Parmesan Mixture
While the pasta cooks, combine the large egg and grated Parmesan cheese in a small bowl, whisking until smooth and creamy. This mixture will transform your soup into a silky masterpiece, elevating simple broth and pasta into something truly special.
Step 4: Create the Egg Ribbons
Lower the heat to low. Slowly drizzle the egg and Parmesan mixture into the hot soup, stirring constantly. This technique forms delicate thin strands of cooked egg, adding body and creamy richness that’s reminiscent of traditional egg drop soups but with a charming Italian twist.
Step 5: Finish with Butter, Seasoning, and Serve
Stir in the tablespoon of butter until it melts smoothly into the broth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Then ladle your irresistible Italian Pastina Soup Recipe into bowls, topping with extra Parmesan and optional fresh parsley for that bright finishing touch.
How to Serve Italian Pastina Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese never fails to impress, imparting a salty and creamy nuance that complements the soup’s flavors. A handful of chopped fresh parsley or a few basil leaves also adds a colorful, aromatic pop that visually brightens the bowl and lifts the palate.
Side Dishes
This soup shines wonderfully as a light meal on its own, but pairing it with a crunchy slice of garlic bread or a crisp green salad can turn it into a satisfying lunch or dinner. For a heartier experience, a small plate of roasted vegetables or an Italian antipasto platter pairs perfectly with the sophisticated simplicity of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the pasta in rustic bowls and top each portion with a tiny drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil and a grind of fresh black pepper. To impress guests, you can ladle the soup into mini espresso cups as an appetizer or garnish with edible flowers for a delightful burst of elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Italian Pastina Soup Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since pastina tends to soak up liquid over time, it’s best to keep the soup slightly brothy, adding a splash of broth or water when reheating to maintain the perfect consistency.
Freezing
Freezing this soup is possible but not always ideal due to the delicate pasta and egg ribbons. If you choose to freeze, do so before adding the egg mixture, and store the broth and cooked pasta separately if possible. When thawing, combine and whisk in the egg fresh upon reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Warm leftover soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to preserve the egg ribbons’ silky texture. If the soup has thickened, loosen it up with a bit of broth or water until it reaches the comforting, soupy bliss you love in this Italian Pastina Soup Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! Using vegetable broth makes the soup vegetarian-friendly while keeping it flavorful and light. Just choose a high-quality broth to maintain depth of taste.
What can I substitute for pastina if I can’t find it?
You can swap pastina for other small pastas like acini di pepe, stelline, or even tiny orzo. Each will offer a slightly different mouthfeel but maintain the charm of this delicate soup.
Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
To craft a vegan version, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, omit the egg, and use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan as a cheese alternative. This shifts the flavor but retains warmth and nourishment.
How do I get the egg to form thin strands without clumping?
The key is to whisk the egg and cheese well, then drizzle it slowly into the hot broth while constantly stirring. This technique helps create those signature delicate egg ribbons instead of clumps.
Can I add extra ingredients to make the soup more filling?
Certainly! Adding cooked shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or finely diced vegetables can turn this soup into a hearty meal without losing its comforting essence.
Final Thoughts
The Italian Pastina Soup Recipe is a treasured classic that you will find yourself returning to time and again. Its comforting warmth, subtle elegance, and delightful simplicity make it the perfect antidote for chilly days or when you need a quick, satisfying meal. So, grab your ingredients, fill your kitchen with the aroma of simmering broth, and treat yourself to a bowl of this timeless Italian comfort that feels like home in every spoonful.
Print
Italian Pastina Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This comforting Italian Pastina Soup is a simple and nourishing dish perfect for a quick meal or a soothing remedy for cold days. Featuring tiny pastina pasta cooked in flavorful chicken broth, enriched with Parmesan cheese and delicate egg strands, it’s a warm, satisfying bowl of goodness that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 3/4 cup pastina pasta (or any tiny pasta like acini di pepe or stelline)
Enrichment
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
Seasoning & Garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the broth and cook pasta: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir in the pastina and cook according to package directions, usually 5–7 minutes, until the pasta becomes tender but not mushy.
- Prepare egg mixture: Reduce the heat to low to keep the soup warm. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and grated Parmesan cheese until fully combined and smooth.
- Incorporate the egg strands: Slowly drizzle the egg mixture into the hot soup while stirring continuously to create delicate egg ribbons similar to traditional egg drop soup.
- Add butter and season: Stir in the unsalted butter until melted to enrich the soup. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth if possible.
- Add a handful of cooked shredded chicken or sautéed vegetables to make the soup more filling.
- Ideal as a light meal or a comforting remedy for colds and chills.
- To make vegetarian, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the egg.
