Comfort Pastina Soup is a warm, soothing dish that embodies simplicity and heartiness. With tender vegetables, delicate pastina, and a swirl of egg for added richness, it’s the perfect remedy for cold days or when you’re craving a light, homemade meal.
Loved by all ages, this humble soup is as nostalgic as it is nourishing, making it a comforting staple in many kitchens.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
People will love Comfort Pastina Soup because it offers a perfect balance of warmth, flavor, and simplicity.
The tender pastina and fresh vegetables make it light yet satisfying, while the swirl of egg adds a touch of richness.
It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a comforting meal on chilly days or as a nourishing remedy when feeling under the weather.
Its nostalgic, homemade flavor appeals to all ages, making it a timeless favorite.
Key Ingredients:
Pastina: Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe that add a delicate, comforting texture to the soup.
Vegetables: Celery, onion, and carrot provide a flavorful, aromatic base.
Broth base: Water enhanced with vegetable or chicken bouillon cubes for a savory, rich broth.
Egg: Adds creaminess and protein, elevating the soup’s texture and flavor.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Infuses the soup with a touch of richness and Mediterranean essence.
Comfort Pastina Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
5 cups water
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon vegetable or chicken bouillon cube (or powder)
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 medium onion, finely diced
1 large carrot, finely diced
1 cup pastina (such as acini di pepe)
1 egg
Salt, to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Base:
In a large pot, combine water, olive oil, bouillon, celery, onion, carrot, and a pinch of salt.
Cook the Vegetables:
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for about 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender and flavors have melded.
Add the Pastina:
Stir in the pastina and cook according to the package instructions (about 6-8 minutes), stirring occasionally.
Incorporate the Egg:
Crack the egg directly into the pot.
Use a fork to quickly whisk and swirl the egg into the hot soup, creating a delicate ribbon-like texture.
Taste and Adjust:
Season with additional salt as needed.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm, with optional toppings like grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added flavor.
This quick and comforting soup is perfect for chilly days or when you need something light yet nourishing!
Notes:
Broth Flavor: If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use homemade chicken broth instead of water and bouillon cubes.
Vegetable Variations: You can adjust the vegetables to your liking. Adding spinach or peas can boost the nutritional value.
Egg Texture: The egg is swirled into the soup at the end, creating silky ribbons. For a firmer egg texture, you can beat the egg before adding it to the soup.
Pastina Cooking Tip: Be careful not to overcook the pastina. It cooks quickly, so adding it in the last 10 minutes of simmering will ensure it stays tender but not mushy.
Serving Suggestions: This soup pairs wonderfully with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: 190 kcal | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 30g | Fiber: 2g | Sugars: 4g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 40mg | Sodium: 300mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 1mg
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of pastina?
Yes, you can use small pasta shapes like orzo, ditalini, or stelline.
However, keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size of the pasta.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The pastina may absorb some of the broth, so you may need to add a bit of water or broth when reheating.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken or vegetable bouillon with a vegetable stock for a vegetarian-friendly version of this soup.
Can I freeze Comfort Pastina Soup?
Yes, but the texture of the pastina may change once frozen and reheated.
If you plan to freeze it, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to the soup when reheating to maintain the best texture.
How can I make this soup richer or more filling?
For a richer soup, you can stir in some grated cheese or a spoonful of heavy cream.
To make it more filling, consider adding shredded chicken, beans, or even leafy greens like spinach or kale.
What kind of pasta should I use for pastina soup?
The traditional pasta for this soup is pastina (small pasta like acini di pepe), but you can substitute with small pasta shapes like orzo or stelline if pastina isn’t available.
Can I use broth instead of water in this recipe?
Yes! For added flavor, you can substitute the water with vegetable or chicken broth.
This will enhance the depth of flavor in the soup.
Do I need to cook the egg before adding it to the soup?
No, the egg should be cracked directly into the hot soup while it’s simmering.
Once you stir it in, it will cook quickly and create a silky texture.
How do I ensure the pastina doesn’t get mushy?
To avoid mushy pasta, make sure you add the pastina towards the end of the cooking time, after the vegetables have softened.
Stir occasionally and keep an eye on it as it cooks to prevent overcooking.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or peas.
Just make sure to chop them small so they cook quickly and blend well with the soup.