Italian Pastina Soup is a classic, comforting dish that many Italian families have cherished for generations. With its tiny star-shaped pasta and light vegetable broth, it’s a perfect meal for chilly nights or when you’re craving something warm and simple. What’s great about this soup is that it can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights. This vegetable-packed version adds a nutritious twist while keeping the traditional flavor that makes pastina soup so beloved.
What is Pastina Soup?
Pastina, which translates to “little pasta,” refers to a variety of tiny pasta shapes commonly used in Italian soups. The most popular shape is stelline, or little stars, though there are many others like acini di pepe or orzo that can be used as well. Italian Pastina Soup is traditionally made with a basic broth, but by adding vegetables, we can create a heartier version while still maintaining the dish’s simplicity and elegance.
Ingredients for Italian Pastina Soup
- ½ cup pastina (stelline, orzo, or acini di pepe)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version)
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup spinach or kale (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for a 25-Minute Italian Pastina Soup
- Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by finely chopping all the vegetables to ensure they cook quickly and evenly. Dice the onion, carrots, celery, and zucchini. You can also prep the garlic by mincing it, which will add a fragrant base to the soup. - Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing them until they become fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. - Add the Carrots and Celery
Next, toss in the diced carrots and celery. Stir everything together and cook for another 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the soup, giving it a rich, savory taste. - Pour in the Broth
Add the vegetable broth to the pot and bring it to a gentle boil. If you’re using homemade broth, this is a great time to showcase its depth of flavor. For those in a hurry, store-bought broth works wonderfully too. - Cook the Pastina
Once the broth is boiling, stir in the pastina. These tiny pasta shapes cook quickly—usually within 6-8 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pastina from sticking to the bottom of the pot. As the pasta cooks, it absorbs the flavors of the broth, making every bite a delightful experience. - Add the Zucchini and Spinach
With just a few minutes left on the clock, add the diced zucchini and leafy greens like spinach or kale (if you’re using them). These vegetables need very little time to cook, and adding them near the end ensures they maintain their vibrant color and nutrients. - Season and Serve
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a pop of color and flavor, so sprinkle them on top before serving. For an extra touch of indulgence, you can also grate some Parmesan cheese over each bowl.
Why This Italian Pastina Soup Is Perfect for Any Occasion
Quick and Easy
This Italian Pastina Soup is designed to be ready in just 25 minutes. Whether you’ve had a long day or simply want something cozy and satisfying without much effort, this recipe will save the day. The use of small, quick-cooking pasta ensures the soup comes together swiftly, while the light broth provides a warming and comforting base.
Healthy and Nutrient-Packed
Incorporating vegetables like carrots, celery, zucchini, and spinach makes this pastina soup not only delicious but also nutritious. You can enjoy this meal guilt-free, knowing it’s packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s a wonderful way to sneak more vegetables into your daily diet, especially for kids or picky eaters.
Versatile for Any Season
Though traditionally served in colder months, this Italian Pastina Soup is light enough to be enjoyed year-round. In the winter, it offers warmth and comfort, while in the summer, the fresh vegetables provide a light and refreshing quality. Plus, it’s versatile—swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.
Great for the Whole Family
Pastina is often one of the first solid foods given to Italian children, thanks to its small size and soft texture. This makes Italian Pastina Soup a family-friendly dish that both kids and adults will love. The simplicity of the flavors makes it appealing to even the pickiest eaters, and you can easily adjust the recipe by adding meat, beans, or extra spices to suit your family’s preferences.
Tips for Making the Best Italian Pastina Soup
- Use Quality Broth: The broth is the backbone of any good soup, and this one is no exception. Whether you use vegetable or chicken broth, make sure it’s full of flavor. Homemade is always best, but store-bought can work in a pinch—just opt for a low-sodium version and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Pastina cooks very quickly and can become mushy if overdone. Keep an eye on the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure the pasta retains a pleasant texture.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to customize this soup with your favorite vegetables. Peas, green beans, or even diced tomatoes can add a unique twist while boosting the nutritional content.
- Make It Heartier: If you’re looking for a more filling meal, add some protein like shredded chicken, turkey sausage, or even white beans for a vegetarian option.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: There’s nothing like a warm bowl of soup served with a piece of crusty bread on the side. It’s the perfect way to soak up the delicious broth!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this soup?
Yes, if you can’t find pastina, small pasta shapes like orzo, acini di pepe, or even broken spaghetti work well.
Is this soup gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the pastina with gluten-free pasta, and ensure the broth you use is also gluten-free.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! However, pastina tends to absorb liquid as it sits, so you may need to add more broth when reheating.
What vegetables can I substitute in this recipe?
You can swap the zucchini for bell peppers, peas, or green beans, depending on what’s in season or available.
How can I make this soup creamier?
To add a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end of cooking.
Can I freeze Italian Pastina Soup?
While the soup can be frozen, the pasta may become overly soft upon reheating. For best results, freeze the soup without the pastina and add it fresh when reheating.
Conclusion
Italian Pastina Soup is a quick and nourishing meal that can be made in under 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a little comfort. This vegetable-packed version adds a healthy twist while still keeping the traditional flavors that make this dish a beloved staple in Italian households. Whether you’re cooking for kids, need a simple lunch, or want to cozy up with something warm, this Italian Pastina Soup is a go-to recipe that will always satisfy. Buon appetito!