When you’re feeling under the weather or simply need a bowl of comfort, nothing beats Pastina Soup, often lovingly referred to as “Italian Penicillin.” This hearty and soothing dish is a staple in Italian households, celebrated for its simplicity, warmth, and restorative powers. With its tiny pasta stars swimming in a rich, flavorful broth, this soup is sure to heal your body and uplift your spirit.
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What Makes Pastina Soup Special?
Pastina Soup isn’t just food—it’s an experience of tradition and comfort. Often served to children, the sick, or anyone in need of a little extra love, this dish symbolizes care and warmth. The star-shaped pastina pasta adds a playful touch, making it a favorite among kids, while the velvety mix of egg, Parmesan cheese, and butter creates a luxuriously creamy texture.
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Ingredients
This simple soup requires only a handful of ingredients, making it both budget-friendly and easy to prepare.
4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup pastina pasta (tiny star-shaped or pearl-shaped pasta)
1 egg, beaten
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Heat the Broth
In a medium-sized pot, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. If you’re using homemade broth, this step will fill your kitchen with comforting, savory aromas.
2. Cook the Pastina
Once the broth is boiling, add the pastina pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
3. Add the Egg
In a small bowl, beat the egg until smooth. Slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the simmering soup while stirring continuously. This technique, similar to making egg drop soup, creates delicate strands of cooked egg throughout the broth.
4. Stir in the Cheese and Butter
Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and butter to the soup. Stir until the cheese melts and the butter is fully incorporated, giving the soup a rich, creamy texture.
5. Season to Taste
Taste the soup and add salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed. The amount of salt will depend on the saltiness of your broth and Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve Hot
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, healing comfort of Pastina Soup.
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Why Is It Called Italian Penicillin?
The nickname “Italian Penicillin” comes from the soup’s association with healing. Like chicken soup in many cultures, Pastina Soup is believed to have restorative properties. The warm broth soothes sore throats, the carbohydrates in the pastina provide energy, and the egg and cheese add protein to help with recovery. It’s the ultimate comfort food for both the body and soul.
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Tips for Making the Perfect Pastina Soup
1. Use Homemade Broth: While store-bought broth works well, homemade chicken broth takes the flavor to the next level. Simmer a pot of chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs for a few hours to create a rich, flavorful base.
2. Cook the Pasta in the Broth: Cooking the pastina directly in the broth allows the starch from the pasta to slightly thicken the soup, enhancing its creaminess.
3. Add the Egg Slowly: Drizzle the beaten egg in a thin stream while stirring to create delicate ribbons instead of clumps.
4. Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add chopped spinach, shredded chicken, or diced carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.
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Variations to Try
1. Creamy Pastina Soup
For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese just before serving.
2. Vegetable Pastina Soup
Add diced carrots, celery, and zucchini to the broth for a veggie-packed soup. Simmer the vegetables until tender before adding the pasta.
3. Lemon Pastina Soup
For a bright, zesty twist, squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup and garnish with lemon zest. The citrus flavor pairs beautifully with the Parmesan and chicken broth.
4. Gluten-Free Pastina Soup
Replace the pastina with gluten-free pasta or rice for a gluten-free alternative that’s just as delicious.
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Serving Suggestions
Pastina Soup is versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
Simple Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables make a hearty, nutritious side.
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Nutritional Benefits of Pastina Soup
This soup isn’t just comforting—it’s also packed with nutritional benefits:
Protein: The egg and Parmesan cheese provide high-quality protein to support recovery and energy.
Vitamins and Minerals: Chicken broth is rich in vitamins, minerals, and collagen, which support joint health and immune function.
Carbohydrates: The pastina offers an easily digestible source of energy.
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How to Store and Reheat Pastina Soup
Refrigeration
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
If you plan to freeze the soup, do so without the pasta. Cook the pastina fresh when reheating, as it can become mushy when frozen and thawed.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened during storage.
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Fun Facts About Pastina Soup
1. Pastina Means “Little Pasta”: The word “pastina” comes from Italian, meaning tiny pasta shapes like stars or pearls.
2. A Traditional Italian Remedy: Italian grandmothers (or nonnas) often serve this soup to loved ones feeling under the weather.
3. Endless Variations: Pastina Soup recipes vary widely across regions and families, making it a versatile and customizable dish.
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Why Pastina Soup Is Perfect for Any Occasion
While Pastina Soup is often associated with healing, it’s also a wonderful dish for any time of the year. It’s quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum comfort. Whether you’re battling a cold, enjoying a cozy night in, or feeding picky eaters, this soup checks all the boxes.
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Final Thoughts
The Italian Penicillin: Pastina Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. With its creamy texture, rich flavor, and healing properties, it’s no wonder this soup has been a beloved staple for generations. Simple yet satisfying, it’s a recipe worth passing down.
So, the next time you’re in need of comfort or simply craving something warm and delicious, whip up a pot of Pastina Soup. Your taste buds—and your soul—will thank you.
