Pastina Soup
Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. Pastina soup is a delightful Italian dish that brings warmth to the soul. Made with tiny pasta, rich broth, and fresh herbs, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup is easy to prepare and absolutely satisfying. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this culinary gem!
Ingredients
– 1 cup pastina (tiny pasta)
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 1 celery stalk, diced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of pastina soup contains approximately 180 calories, 3g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, 7g of protein, and 2g of fiber. This nutritional information is based on a serving size of one bowl.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the dried thyme and oregano, cooking for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
5. Add the pastina and reduce the heat to a simmer.
6. Cook until the pastina is tender, about 7-9 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
9. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
10. Enjoy your comforting bowl of pastina soup!
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer, you can substitute pastina with any small pasta like orzo or acini di pepe. For a heartier version, add cooked chicken or beans for extra protein. Vegetable broth can replace chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
Serving and Pairings
Pastina soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad. It’s also delightful with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. For a complete meal, serve alongside a light antipasto.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pastina soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if the soup thickens. This soup can be frozen, but the pasta may become mushy upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the pastina; it can become mushy.
– Use fresh herbs for better flavor.
– Adjust seasoning after cooking to avoid over-salting.
– Use low-sodium broth to control salt content.
– Sauté vegetables until translucent for enhanced flavor.
– Add pastina only when the broth is boiling.
Helpful Tips
– For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the broth.
– Experiment with adding leafy greens like spinach or kale.
– Consider adding a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
– Use homemade broth for the best taste.
– Keep the soup covered while cooking to retain moisture.
– Garnish with herbs right before serving for a fresh touch.
FAQs
What is pastina?
Pastina is a type of tiny pasta, often used in soups or as a base for other dishes. It’s beloved for its quick cooking time and comforting texture, making it ideal for soups like pastina soup.
Can I make pastina soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any meat. This soup remains flavorful and delicious with just vegetables and herbs.
How do I store leftover pastina soup?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s best to keep the pasta separate if possible, as it can absorb too much liquid and become mushy.
Is pastina soup good for kids?
Yes! Pastina soup is a great option for kids due to its small size and mild flavor. It’s easy for them to eat and packed with nutrients.
Can I add protein to pastina soup?
Certainly! Cooked chicken, turkey, or even beans can be added to make the soup more filling and nutritious. Just add them during the last few minutes of cooking to warm through.
What herbs work well in pastina soup?
Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and basil complement the soup beautifully. Dried herbs work well too, but fresh herbs add vibrant flavor.
Can I freeze pastina soup?
Yes, you can freeze pastina soup. However, the pasta may become softer when reheated, so consider freezing the soup without the pasta and adding it fresh when reheating.
Conclusion
Pastina soup is a simple yet comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. With its ease of preparation and delightful flavors, this soup is perfect for any occasion, whether you need a quick meal or a cozy family dinner. Enjoy every soothing spoonful!
Pastina Soup
Ingredients
- 1 cup pastina
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 carrots diced
- 1 celery stalk diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the dried thyme and oregano, cooking for an additional minute.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the pastina and reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cook until the pastina is tender, about 7-9 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
- Serve hot in bowls, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
- Enjoy your comforting bowl of pastina soup!
