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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the diced carrot, celery, and zucchini (if using), and cook for another 5–7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 2: Build the Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth and water, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
- Stir in the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the broth simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Cook the Pastina
- Once the broth is simmering, add the pastina (or small pasta) to the pot. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
- Continue to cook for about 5–7 minutes (or until the pasta is tender), making sure to check the texture as cooking times can vary depending on the pasta.
Step 4: Add Protein (Optional)
- If you’d like to add protein, stir in the cooked shredded chicken now, allowing it to heat through for a couple of minutes.
Step 5: Serve the Soup
- Once the pastina is tender and the soup is well-seasoned, remove from heat.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese (optional). Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Italian Pastina Soup
- Use Homemade Broth: For even more flavor, try using homemade chicken or vegetable broth. It enhances the overall taste and adds richness.
- Cook Pasta Separately: If you’re making a large batch, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to the soup to avoid it absorbing too much broth and becoming mushy.
- Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, peas, or tomatoes to give the soup extra color and nutrients.
- Make It Creamy: For a creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Bread: Serve with crusty Italian bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth.
- Salad: Pair with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette for a well-rounded meal.
- Cheese: Add extra Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on top for a cheesy, salty finish.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
- Reheat: To reheat, warm the soup on the stove over low heat, adding a bit more broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.
Why This Recipe Works
Italian Pastina Soup is the ultimate comfort food, balancing delicate pasta with rich, savory broth. It’s the perfect meal for any occasion—whether you’re seeking a cozy dinner on a cold night, trying to impress your family with a homemade soup, or looking for a simple, nourishing dish. The beauty of this recipe is in its versatility; you can adjust the ingredients to fit what you have on hand, making it both convenient and delicious.
The Bottom Line
Italian Pastina Soup is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup is perfect for everyone in the family and can easily be tailored to your tastes. Whether you enjoy it with a dollop of Parmesan or as a standalone meal, this comforting Italian classic is sure to become a new favorite in your household.
So, grab your pot and get ready to enjoy the heartwarming flavors of Italian Pastina Soup today!
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