If you’re looking for a bowl of pure comfort, Italian Pastina Soup is the answer. This beloved classic is the kind of meal that warms you from head to toe, with its delicate pasta pearls swimming in a golden, savory broth, crowned with a swirl of silky egg and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Italian Pastina Soup is a dish that proves simplicity is often at the heart of the most delicious memories—one taste and you’ll see why generations have turned to this soul-soothing staple for coziness and cheer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how easy it is to create something so nourishing and nostalgic with just a handful of key ingredients. Each one brings its own magic: the broth forms a rich base, pastina gives the perfect texture, and eggs with Parmesan blend in for silky, cheesy ribbons.
- Chicken Broth: The backbone of Italian Pastina Soup, use a good-quality low-sodium broth for rich flavor that’s not too salty.
- Pastina (or small pasta): Tiny pasta like acini di pepe or classic pastina lets every spoonful bring a little joy; the pasta absorbs the broth and creates the soup’s signature silky body.
- Unsalted Butter: Just a touch gives the soup velvety richness and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Egg: When whisked with cheese and streamed in, it creates those irresistible egg ribbons, making every mouthful feel extra special.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Real Parmesan brings savory depth and dreamy creaminess to each spoonful.
- Salt and Pepper: Add to taste so the soup is perfectly seasoned to your liking.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional): For a bright pop of color and fresh herbal note to finish things off prettily.
How to Make Italian Pastina Soup
Step 1: Bring the Broth to a Boil
Begin by pouring your chicken broth into a medium saucepan and set it over medium-high heat. Bringing the broth to a lively boil is essential, as it sets the stage for your pastina to cook up plump, tender, and full of flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Pastina
Once the broth is bubbling, stir in the pastina (or your favorite tiny pasta). Keep an eye on the pot and cook according to the package, usually about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring every so often so the pasta stays separated and perfectly tender.
Step 3: Stir in the Butter
When the pasta is just right, nudge the heat down to a gentle simmer and slip in that tablespoon of butter. As it melts, it gives Italian Pastina Soup a silken texture and enriches the broth for that classic comfort factor.
Step 4: Create the Egg and Cheese Mixture
In a small bowl, crack the egg and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Give it a brisk whisk until well combined; this mixture is about to transform your soup with golden ribbons and creamy richness.
Step 5: Stream in the Egg Mixture
With one hand stirring the soup in a gentle swirl, slowly pour in the egg-Parmesan blend. Keep stirring as you add—this is how you get those signature lacy egg threads that make Italian Pastina Soup so special. The eggs cook instantly in the hot broth, mingling with the cheese for a delicate texture.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste your soup and add salt and pepper until every spoonful sings with flavor. Ladle the piping-hot soup into bowls, and if you like, scatter some chopped parsley and extra Parmesan on top. Your Italian Pastina Soup is ready to bring comfort to the table!
How to Serve Italian Pastina Soup
Garnishes
Nobody can resist a bowl dressed with a little flourish! Sprinkle fresh parsley over your Italian Pastina Soup for color and a whisper of herbal freshness. Finish with another dusting of Parmesan or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil for even more depth.
Side Dishes
This gentle soup pairs perfectly with a thick slice of rustic bread or warm focaccia—the better to soak up every last drop. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a crisp Italian salad or some roasted veggies tossed with a little lemon and olive oil.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to make your Italian Pastina Soup extra charming, try serving it in espresso cups for a fun appetizer, or set up a “soup bar” with little bowls of toppings: extra cheese, fresh herbs, even a squeeze of lemon for brightening each bowl to personal taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Italian Pastina Soup will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta might absorb more broth as it sits, but that just makes it even cozier—just stir in a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up before serving.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the soup, though the pasta’s texture may soften further. Cool the soup completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
To reheat, pour the soup into a saucepan over medium heat and warm until hot but not boiling, stirring frequently. If it’s thickened up, simply add a bit more broth or water and taste for seasoning before serving again.
FAQs
Can I make Italian Pastina Soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just switch the chicken broth for your favorite vegetable broth. You’ll still get all the creamy, savory comfort you crave, minus the meat.
What other pasta shapes can I use if I can’t find pastina?
Mini stars, acini di pepe, orzo, or even broken bits of angel hair pasta all work beautifully if you can’t find classic pastina. The idea is to use something tiny that cooks quickly and absorbs the broth easily.
Is the egg necessary in Italian Pastina Soup?
The egg adds lovely texture and creaminess, but if you prefer, you can skip it for a simpler bowl. You might want to add a touch more cheese for richness, or even stir in a splash of milk at the end.
Can I add vegetables or chicken to make it heartier?
Definitely! Stir in diced cooked chicken, a handful of baby spinach, or some tiny diced carrots and celery for a more substantial meal. Just add them in before the egg step so everything has time to heat through.
Why is Italian Pastina Soup considered a comfort food?
For many, this soup is a nostalgic taste of home and childhood, thanks to its warmth, simplicity, and the soothing, gentle flavors. Italian Pastina Soup has been lovingly served to little ones and adults alike for generations, especially when a boost of comfort is needed.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving honesty and comfort in a bowl, Italian Pastina Soup is sure to hit the spot. Give it a try the next time you want to wrap yourself—and your loved ones—in cozy, nourishing tradition. Every spoonful is like a warm hug from the heart of Italy!
Print
Italian Pastina Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and flavorful Italian Pastina Soup recipe that features delicate egg ribbons in a savory chicken broth base, perfect for chilly days or when you need a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ¾ cup pastina (or other small pasta like acini di pepe)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the pastina and cook according to the package instructions (usually 5–7 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Once the pasta is tender, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir in the butter.
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg and Parmesan cheese together. Slowly drizzle the egg mixture into the soup while stirring continuously to create delicate egg ribbons.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- This comforting soup is perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
- For a heartier version, stir in cooked chicken or vegetables.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
