Italian Pastina Soup (Simple Vegetable Soup in 25 Minutes)

This Italian Pastina Soup (Simple Vegetable Soup in 25 Minutes) is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience. In just 25 minutes, this hearty soup brings together a flavorful broth and tender pastina pasta, making it perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a cozy pick-me-up. The combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs creates a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious, suitable for family dinners or quick lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be made in just 25 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and low-sodium broth, it’s a healthy choice for everyone.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or add protein to make it your own.
• Comforting: The warm broth and soft pastina offer a soothing effect that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: With its small pasta shape and mild flavors, it’s great for picky eaters.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful soup, you’ll need a few essential tools that make the cooking process smoother. Having the right equipment on hand ensures your Italian Pastina Soup turns out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Blender
• Slotted spoon or colander
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for simmering the broth and cooking the pasta all in one place.
• Blender: Essential for creating a smooth texture from the cooked vegetables, enhancing the soup’s flavor.
• Slotted spoon or colander: Helps in straining out solid ingredients easily without losing any liquid.

Ingredients

This Italian Pastina Soup has the power to soothe your soul. Ready in 25 minutes, with a simple broth that feels like a warm hug in a bowl!

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup pastina pasta (I’ve used stelline pastina shape)
• 1 brown onion
• 2 carrots
• 2 celery sticks
• 4 garlic cloves
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth) – I’ve used low-sodium
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients

• 1 bay leaf
• 1 parmesan rind

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Grated parmesan cheese (optional)
• Drizzle of olive oil (optional)

this recipe

How to Make Italian Pastina Soup (Simple Vegetable Soup in 25 Minutes)

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Roughly chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic cloves. You don’t need to be too precise; just ensure they are manageable sizes for cooking.

Step 2: Simmer the Broth

Pour the vegetable broth into a large pot. Add the chopped vegetables along with optional bay leaf and parmesan rind. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Cover and simmer over medium-high heat for about 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Blend the Vegetables

Once cooked, check that the vegetables are soft using a fork. Remove the bay leaf and parmesan rind from the pot. Strain out the solids using a slotted spoon or colander.

Step 4: Smooth Out the Mixture

Transfer the cooked vegetables to a blender. Add about ½ cup of water and blend until smooth. This step creates a creamy base for your soup.

Step 5: Combine Back into the Pot

Pour the blended vegetable mixture back into the pot with your remaining vegetable broth. Stir well to combine thoroughly. Taste for seasoning adjustments if needed.

Step 6: Cook the Pastina

Bring the soup back to a boil before adding in your pastina pasta. Stir frequently to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot. Cook until al dente, usually about 5-6 minutes.

Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnished with chopped parsley, grated parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy your soothing Italian Pastina Soup!

How to Serve Italian Pastina Soup (Simple Vegetable Soup in 25 Minutes)

Serving Italian Pastina Soup is as delightful as it is simple. This soup can be enjoyed in various ways, allowing you to customize each bowl to your liking.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley on top adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: A few whole basil leaves can elevate the flavor profile of the soup.

Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A light drizzle enhances the richness and gives a lovely finish to each bowl.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Serve slices of crusty bread alongside for dipping; it complements the soup perfectly.

Include Protein Boosters

• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adding freshly grated cheese enriches the soup’s flavor and adds creaminess.
• Cooked Chicken or Beans: For added protein, consider topping with shredded chicken or white beans.

Serve as an Appetizer

• Small Portions in Cups: Offer smaller servings in cups for guests as a warm appetizer at gatherings.

How to Perfect Italian Pastina Soup (Simple Vegetable Soup in 25 Minutes)

Creating the perfect Italian Pastina Soup requires a few simple techniques. These tips will help you achieve a comforting and flavorful dish every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with less salt and add more as needed during cooking to avoid over-seasoning.
• Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the vegetable mixture makes the soup creamy without using cream.
• Monitor Pasta Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the pastina while it cooks; overcooking can lead to mushy pasta.
• Experiment with Broth Types: Try different broths like chicken or vegetable for unique flavors that suit your taste.
• Store Properly for Later Use: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container; reheat gently on the stove.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Pastina Soup (Simple Vegetable Soup in 25 Minutes)

Italian Pastina Soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, this classic side is perfect for dipping into the broth.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing companion to the warm soup.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and herbs adds a delightful crunch.
4. Mixed Green Salad: Light greens tossed with a vinaigrette offer contrast to the rich soup.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs well, providing variety and indulgence alongside your soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with grains or meats add substance to your meal.
7. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring depth to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian Pastina Soup can be a breeze, but some common mistakes can affect the final outcome.

• Using the wrong pasta – Always choose pastina for this recipe. Other pasta shapes may alter cooking times and texture.
• Not seasoning properly – Ensure you season the broth well with salt and pepper. Taste as you go to avoid bland soup.
• Overcooking the vegetables – Cook veggies just until soft. Overcooked vegetables can lose their flavor and color.
• Skipping the blending step – Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture. Don’t skip this step for better mouthfeel.
• Neglecting garnishes – Garnishes like parsley and parmesan add flavor and visual appeal. Don’t forget to add them before serving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before placing it in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Freezing Italian Pastina Soup (Simple Vegetable Soup in 25 Minutes)

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Italian Pastina Soup (Simple Vegetable Soup in 25 Minutes)

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Pour soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop – Heat on medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a splash of water if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Italian Pastina Soup?

Italian Pastina Soup is a comforting vegetable soup made with small pasta called pastina, perfect for a quick meal.

How long does it take to make Italian Pastina Soup?

This simple vegetable soup can be made in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Can I customize Italian Pastina Soup?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to tailor the soup to your taste preferences.

Is Italian Pastina Soup healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is low in calories and packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables, making it a great choice for healthy eating.

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, using chicken broth will enhance the flavor while still keeping it deliciously comforting.

Final Thoughts

Italian Pastina Soup offers warmth and comfort, making it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Give this simple recipe a try, and enjoy its soothing qualities!

Print

Italian Pastina Soup

---

• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Italian Pastina Soup is a delightful and nourishing dish that captures the essence of comfort food. This simple vegetable soup can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The combination of tender pastina pasta, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a warm, flavorful broth that soothes the soul. Whether served as a quick lunch or as part of a hearty dinner, this soup is versatile enough to accommodate your favorite ingredients. Enjoy its heartwarming qualities on chilly evenings or whenever you need a comforting pick-me-up.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup pastina pasta (stelline shape)
• 1 brown onion
• 2 carrots
• 2 celery sticks
• 4 garlic cloves
• 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

---

Instructions

1. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic into manageable sizes.
2. In a large pot, combine the vegetable broth and chopped vegetables. Season with salt and pepper, then bring to a simmer for about 20 minutes until tender.
3. Remove any solids like bay leaves or parmesan rinds if used, then blend the cooked vegetables until smooth.
4. Return the blended mixture to the pot with remaining broth and bring to a boil.
5. Stir in pastina pasta and cook for 5-6 minutes until al dente.
6. Serve hot with optional garnishes like parsley or grated parmesan.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating your favorite protein such as shredded chicken or beans. Customize with seasonal vegetables for variety. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.