Description
A warm and creamy pastina soup that feels like a hug in a bowl. Made with tiny star‑shaped pasta, savory broth, and a touch of Parmesan, this cozy Italian comfort dish is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a little soul‑soothing meal.
Ingredients
1 cup pastina (tiny star‑shaped pasta)
4 cups low‑sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup whole milk (or half‑and‑half for extra creaminess)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring the broth to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir in the pastina and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Lower the heat and stir in the milk, butter, and minced garlic (if using). Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using).
6. Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan, and serve hot.
Notes
– Use low‑sodium broth to control salt — add extra at the end if needed.
– Swap in vegetable broth to make this fully vegetarian.
– For an ultra‑creamy texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half‑and‑half.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: pastina recipe, creamy pastina soup, Italian comfort food, easy pastina recipe