Pastina – Italian Comfort Food
Pastina, meaning “little pasta,” is a cozy dish made with tiny pasta shapes, a buttery broth, and often eggs or cheese for creaminess. It’s a comforting meal ideal for cold days or when you need a quick, satisfying bite.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish, Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (200 g) pastina (tiny pasta, such as stelline or acini di pepe)
- 4 cups (950 ml) chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 egg (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pastina:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the pastina and cook according to package instructions (about 5-7 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Add butter and cheese:
- Once the pastina is cooked and has absorbed some of the broth, stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until creamy.
- Optional egg step:
- For added richness, whisk the egg in a small bowl. Remove the saucepan from the heat and slowly stir the egg into the hot pastina while mixing vigorously. This will create a creamy, velvety texture.
- Season and serve:
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Transfer to bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Variations:
- Add a splash of milk or cream for extra creaminess.
- Stir in cooked vegetables like peas or carrots for a heartier dish.
- Use a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing twist.
- Kid-friendly: This dish is perfect for children as it’s soft, easy to eat, and customizable with different flavors or toppings.
Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/pastina-italian-comfort-food/