Warm your soul with this delightful and comforting Pastina Soup recipe. Indulge in a bowl of creamy goodness that combines tiny pasta, flavorful broth, and a medley of vegetables. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a comforting meal, this recipe will surely satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling nourished.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Serving: 4
- Yield: Approximately 6 cups
- Calories: 280 per serving
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (200g) pastina (small pasta)
- 6 cups (1.4 liters) vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1/2 cup (75g) frozen peas
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: In a large pot, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a boil over medium heat.
Step 2: In the meantime, heat the olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the diced carrot and celery to the pan and cook for a few more minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 4: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the boiling broth. Stir in the frozen peas and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Add the pastina to the pot and stir well. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pastina is cooked al dente and the flavors have melded together.
Step 6: Once the soup is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Tips and Tricks:
- For a creamier consistency, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the soup just before serving.
- Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables of your choice, such as corn or diced zucchini.
- To make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, use vegetable broth and omit any animal-based ingredients.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 280 per serving
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Protein: 9g
- Fiber: 4g
Final Thoughts:
This Pastina Soup recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for a comforting meal. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day or simply craving a bowl of hearty goodness, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy the creamy goodness and savor every spoonful!
FAQ:
Q1: What is Pastina Soup?
Pastina Soup is a delicious and comforting soup made with tiny pasta, flavorful broth, and a combination of vegetables.
Q2: Can I use a different type of pasta in Pastina Soup?
Yes, you can use any small pasta shape of your choice if you don’t have pastina. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q3: Can I make Pastina Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Pastina Soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.
Q4: Can I freeze the leftovers of Pastina Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover Pastina Soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop.
Q5: Can I add meat to Pastina Soup?
Certainly! If you prefer a meaty version, you can add cooked and shredded chicken, diced ham, or cooked ground meat to Pastina Soup.
Q6: Can I use beef broth instead of vegetable or chicken broth in Pastina Soup?
Yes, you can substitute beef broth if you prefer a richer flavor in Pastina Soup. It will add a different taste profile to the soup.
Q7: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas in Pastina Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas in Pastina Soup. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.
Q8: Can I make Pastina Soup spicy?
Yes, if you enjoy some heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to Pastina Soup for a spicy kick.
Q9: Is Pastina Soup suitable for kids?
Yes, Pastina Soup is generally kid-friendly. You can adjust the seasoning and spices according to your child’s taste preferences.
Q10: Can I use homemade broth instead of store-bought in Pastina Soup?
Definitely! Homemade broth will add an extra depth of flavor to Pastina Soup. Feel free to use your favorite homemade broth if you have it available.
Q11: Can I add cheese to Pastina Soup?
Yes, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar cheese on top of Pastina Soup before serving for an added cheesy touch.
Q12: Can I add herbs other than parsley to Pastina Soup?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other herbs such as basil, thyme, or oregano to enhance the flavor of Pastina Soup.
Q13: Can I make Pastina Soup gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pastina or any other gluten-free small pasta to make Pastina Soup suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Q14: Can I add other seasonings or spices to Pastina Soup?
Certainly! Feel free to add your favorite seasonings or spices such as dried basil, garlic powder, or onion powder to customize the flavor of Pastina Soup.
Q15: Can I double the recipe for Pastina Soup?
Of course! If you need to serve more people or want leftovers, you can easily double the ingredients for Pastina Soup and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
