If you are craving a warm, comforting meal, cozy Italian pastina soup for chilly nights is the answer. This classic Italian comfort food is simple, nourishing, and deeply soothing. Made with tiny pasta simmered in rich broth and finished with egg, butter, and Parmesan cheese, this soup is often lovingly called Italian penicillin for good reason. It is gentle, satisfying, and perfect for cold evenings, sick days, or anytime you need a bowl of comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Italian Pastina Soup
This Italian pastina soup is incredibly easy to make with just a handful of pantry staples. It comes together in one pot, making cleanup minimal and stress-free. The texture is soft and creamy without using cream, and the flavor is savory, rich, and cozy.
Another reason to love this recipe is how versatile it is. You can keep it traditional and simple, or add vegetables and protein to make it more filling. It is equally loved by kids and adults, making it a great family friendly option when the weather turns cold.
Ingredients for Italian Pastina Soup
Soup Base
- 6 cups chicken broth
- ¾ cup pastina (tiny star or grain pasta)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons finely diced onion
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Ingredient Notes
Pastina is very small pasta, often shaped like stars or tiny grains. If you cannot find pastina, acini di pepe or orzo broken in half work well as substitutes.
Chicken broth gives the soup its signature flavor, but vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version. Use a high quality broth since it is the foundation of the dish.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and adds richness. Pre shredded cheese does not melt as well and can affect texture.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Broth
Pour the chicken broth into a medium pot and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. If using garlic or onion, add them to the broth and let simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Pastina
Add the pastina directly to the boiling broth. Stir frequently and cook according to package directions, usually 5 to 7 minutes, until the pasta is very tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg
While the pastina cooks, beat the egg in a small bowl until smooth. This step ensures the egg incorporates evenly into the soup.
Step 4: Temper the Egg
Reduce the heat to low. Slowly ladle a small amount of hot broth into the beaten egg while whisking constantly. This prevents the egg from scrambling.
Step 5: Finish the Soup
Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot, stirring continuously. The soup will become slightly creamy. Add butter and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
- Stir frequently while cooking pastina to prevent sticking.
- Always temper the egg slowly for a smooth texture.
- Keep the heat low once the egg is added.
- Use good quality broth for the best flavor.
- Serve right away, as pastina thickens quickly as it sits.
Flavor Variations
- Lemon Pastina Soup: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for brightness.
- Chicken Pastina Soup: Stir in shredded cooked chicken for extra protein.
- Vegetable Pastina Soup: Add finely chopped carrots or spinach for added nutrients.
- Garlic Parmesan Pastina: Increase garlic and Parmesan for a bolder flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Italian pastina soup with crusty bread or crackers for dipping. It also pairs well with a simple green salad if you want to round out the meal. This soup works beautifully as a starter or as a light main dish.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Pastina soup is best enjoyed fresh, as the pasta continues to absorb liquid. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add extra broth when reheating to loosen the texture.
Freezing is not recommended, as the pasta can become mushy once thawed.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Why is it called Italian penicillin?
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 |
| Protein | 11 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
FAQ About Italian Pastina Soup
What is pastina?
Pastina is a very small type of pasta traditionally used in Italian soups. It cooks quickly and creates a soft, comforting texture.
Italian pastina soup is often served when someone is sick because it is warm, gentle, and nourishing. The nickname reflects its comforting and healing reputation.
Can I make pastina soup without egg?
Yes, you can skip the egg and add extra butter or Parmesan for richness. The soup will still be flavorful, just less creamy.
Is this soup good for kids?
Absolutely. The mild flavor and soft texture make it a favorite for children, especially on cold or sick days.
Italian Pastina Soup
Equipment
- medium pot
- wooden spoon
- small bowl
- whisk
- ladle
Ingredients
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 3/4 cup pastina (tiny star or grain pasta)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- salt, to taste
- black pepper, to taste
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- 2 tbsp finely diced onion (optional)
- fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Pour the chicken broth into a medium pot and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. If using garlic or onion, add them and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the pastina to the boiling broth. Stir frequently and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the pasta is very tender.
- While the pastina cooks, beat the egg in a small bowl until smooth.
- Reduce heat to low. Slowly whisk a small amount of hot broth into the egg to temper it.
- Slowly stir the egg mixture into the soup. Add butter and Parmesan, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
This cozy Italian pastina soup for chilly nights is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Warm, comforting, and easy to make, it is the kind of recipe you will return to again and again when you need comfort in a bowl.
