Discover comfort in a bowl with Italian Penicillin: Pastina Soup. This simple yet nourishing dish features tiny pastina pasta in a flavorful chicken broth enriched with butter and Parmesan. Perfect for warming up during chilly days or when you need a soothing remedy.
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup pastina pasta (tiny star-shaped or pearl-shaped pasta)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil.
- Add the pastina to the boiling broth. Stir, reduce heat to medium, and cook according to package instructions (usually 4–6 minutes) until the pasta is tender.
- Once the pastina is cooked, lower the heat. Stir in the butter until melted.
- In a small bowl, whisk the beaten egg with the Parmesan cheese. Ladle a small amount of the hot broth into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to warm the egg.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture back into the pot, stirring continuously. The soup will become silky and slightly creamy.
- Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
- Ladle into bowls, add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if you like, and enjoy warm!
Variation
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
- Add chopped spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color.
- Include cooked chicken pieces for a more substantial meal.
Cooking Notes
- Do not overcook the pastina; it should be tender yet slightly firm.
- Grate the Parmesan freshly to enhance the flavor.
- The soup thickens as it sits, so serve immediately for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty Italian bread for dipping.
- Top with freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor.
- Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- Temper the egg to prevent it from scrambling in the hot soup.
- Be generous with Parmesan for a cheesier flavor and richer soup.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if needed.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes, but the pastina will absorb more liquid over time. - Is there a substitute for pastina pasta?
You can use orzo or any other small pasta. - How can I make this soup thicker?
Add more cheese or a bit of cream for thickness. - What should I do if the broth is too salty?
Add more broth or water to dilute the saltiness.
Conclusion
With minimal ingredients and maximum comfort, Italian Penicillin: Pastina Soup is a quick and delightful meal. Perfect for anyone feeling under the weather or simply in need of a warm hug in a bowl, it’s simplicity at its finest with a touch of Italian tradition.
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Italian Penicillin: Pastina Soup
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian (if using vegetable broth)
Description
Discover comfort in a bowl with Italian Penicillin: Pastina Soup. This simple yet nourishing dish features tiny pastina pasta in a flavorful chicken broth enriched with butter and Parmesan. Perfect for warming up during chilly days or when you need a soothing remedy.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup pastina pasta (tiny star-shaped or pearl-shaped pasta)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil.
- Add the pastina to the boiling broth. Stir, reduce heat to medium, and cook according to package instructions (usually 4–6 minutes) until the pasta is tender.
- Once the pastina is cooked, lower the heat. Stir in the butter until melted.
- In a small bowl, whisk the beaten egg with the Parmesan cheese. Ladle a small amount of the hot broth into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to warm the egg.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture back into the pot, stirring continuously. The soup will become silky and slightly creamy.
- Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
- Ladle into bowls, add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if you like, and enjoy warm!
Notes
- Ensure continuous stirring when adding the egg mixture to avoid clumping.
- Adjust the seasoning according to taste after adding the egg and cheese mixture.
- For a richer broth, use homemade chicken broth if possible.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: pastina soup, Italian, comfort food, chicken broth, easy soup
