Easy Pastina Soup

This Easy Pastina Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply in need of some comforting Italian flavors. Packed with wholesome ingredients and blended to create a smooth, nourishing broth, this soup is ideal for picky eaters as it disguises vegetables in a delicious way. Enjoy it on a chilly day or serve it as a light meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Healing: This soup wraps you in warmth and comfort, making it perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling unwell.
• Kid-Friendly: The hidden veggies make this an excellent choice for picky eaters who may shy away from traditional vegetable soups.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can enjoy this flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup by adding different small pasta shapes or adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
• Nutritious: Packed with vitamins from fresh vegetables, this soup offers health benefits while being deliciously satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Easy Pastina Soup requires just a few essential tools that make the process seamless. Having the right equipment will ensure you get the best results without any hassle.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Blender
• Slotted spoon
• Small pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the broth and cooking the vegetables until tender.
• Blender: Helps create a smooth texture by blending the cooked vegetables into the broth.
• Slotted spoon: Useful for transferring cooked veggies to the blender without taking too much liquid along.
• Small pot: Perfect for boiling pastina separately so that it’s ready to add to your soup.

Ingredients

For the Broth

• 10.5 cups water (2 ½ liters), or use organic unsalted veggie broth or half water and half broth
• 1 yellow onion (peeled and halved)
• 2 celery ribs (cut in half)
• 3 carrots (peeled)
• 4 garlic cloves (peeled)
• Salt (start with ½ tablespoon, then taste and adjust)

For the Pasta

• 1 cup pastina (boiled; any small pasta shape such as orzo, little stars, or tiny macaroni noodles)

For Garnish

• Parmigiano (for garnish)

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How to Make Easy Pastina Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Fill a large pot with water or vegetable broth and heat over high heat. Add the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Season with salt. Bring everything to a boil.

Step 2: Cook Until Tender

Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low. Semi-cover with a lid and let it cook for about 45 minutes until all vegetables are very soft. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 3: Blend the Vegetables

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the softened veggies to a blender along with two ladles of broth. Blend until smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes. Return this mixture back to the pot of remaining broth and stir well.

Step 4: Boil the Pastina

In a separate small pot, boil your chosen pastina in salted water according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

Add a ladle of cooked pastina into each bowl. Pour hot broth on top and finish with a dusting of parmigiano cheese. Enjoy your delicious Easy Pastina Soup!

How to Serve Easy Pastina Soup

Easy Pastina Soup is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit personal tastes. Here are some creative serving ideas to elevate your soup experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Chives: Add chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the soup beautifully.

With Cheese

• Parmesan: Grate fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano over the soup just before serving for a rich, savory taste.
• Mozzarella: Stir in small cubes of mozzarella for a melty texture that adds creaminess to each bite.

As a Main Dish

• With Crusty Bread: Serve alongside slices of crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pair with a classic grilled cheese for a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly days.

For Kids

• Fun Pasta Shapes: Use colorful or fun-shaped pastina to make the soup more appealing to children.
• Vegetable Dippers: Offer raw veggies like carrot sticks or cucumber slices as dippers for added crunch and nutrition.

How to Perfect Easy Pastina Soup

To ensure your Easy Pastina Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Blend Well: Ensure you blend the vegetables into a very smooth consistency for a creamy broth.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving and adjust the salt according to your preference.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality broth and fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
• Control the Thickness: If your soup is too thick, add more water or broth gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last up to three days.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so on low heat to avoid overcooking the pastina.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pastina Soup

Pairing side dishes with Easy Pastina Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping and adds extra flavor to your meal.
2. Caprese Salad: A fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil complements the soup’s warmth.
3. Antipasto Platter: Create a platter with olives, cured meats, and cheeses for a flavorful Italian touch.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide additional nutrients and textures alongside the soup.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and herbs offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pastina soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Pastina Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect its flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt can make your soup bland. Start with ½ tablespoon and adjust based on your taste.
• Not blending enough: If you don’t blend the vegetables well, the soup may have an undesirable texture. Aim for a smooth consistency to fully integrate the flavors.
• Overcooking pastina: Cooking pastina for too long can lead to mushiness. Follow package instructions and add it just before serving for best results.
• Ignoring broth quality: Using low-quality or salty broth can compromise the taste of your soup. Opt for organic unsalted vegetable broth for a cleaner flavor.
• Skipping fresh garnishes: Freshly grated parmigiano adds a delicious finishing touch. Don’t skip this step for enhanced flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Pastina Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Easy Pastina Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Easy Pastina Soup?

Yes! You can add other vegetables or proteins as desired. Spinach, peas, or shredded chicken work well.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute regular pastina with gluten-free pasta options like rice-based or corn-based varieties.

What is the best way to store leftovers of Easy Pastina Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I use homemade broth instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade broth adds a personal touch and enhances the flavor of your Easy Pastina Soup.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pastina Soup is not only comforting but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try — it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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Easy Pastina Soup

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Easy Pastina Soup is a comforting Italian classic that warms the soul, perfect for chilly days or when you need a little extra care. This nourishing dish combines wholesome vegetables blended into a smooth broth, making it an excellent choice for picky eaters while delivering essential nutrients. With its quick preparation and comforting flavors, Easy Pastina Soup is not only delicious but also versatile—customize it with your favorite small pasta shapes and seasonings. Serve this delightful soup as a light meal or pair it with crusty bread for a heartier option.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 10.5 cups water or organic unsalted vegetable broth
• 1 yellow onion
• 2 celery ribs
• 3 carrots
• 4 garlic cloves
• Salt (to taste)
• 1 cup pastina (or any small pasta shape)
• Parmigiano cheese (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine water or broth with onion, celery, carrots, garlic, and salt. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes until vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer softened vegetables to a blender with some broth; blend until smooth. Return mixture to pot.
4. In a small pot, boil pastina according to package instructions until al dente.
5. Serve by adding pastina to bowls and ladling hot broth on top; garnish with Parmigiano.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 300g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: Customize your soup by adding greens like spinach or proteins such as shredded chicken. For a gluten-free version, substitute regular pastina with gluten-free pasta options.