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Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broth Base:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and the onion is translucent.
- Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and oregano, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
2. Add the Broth and Bring to a Simmer:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste, but be cautious with the salt, as the broth may already have some seasoning.
3. Cook the Pastina:
- Once the broth has simmered and the vegetables are tender, add the pastina pasta to the pot. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and cooked through. Pastina cooks quickly, so be sure not to overcook it, as it can turn mushy.
4. Finish the Soup:
- Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs, if necessary.
5. Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and sprinkle each serving with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired—its rich, salty flavor adds a lovely finishing touch.
6. Enjoy:
- Serve the soup warm with a slice of crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping. Enjoy this cozy, comforting dish that’s sure to warm both your body and soul.
Why This Soup is a Winner:
Pastina Soup is one of those dishes that, despite its simplicity, delivers a deep sense of comfort. The tiny pastina pasta is soft, tender, and perfect for soaking up the flavors of the broth, while the fresh vegetables add a slight sweetness and depth. The herbs—thyme and oregano—infuse the broth with fragrant, savory notes, making each spoonful feel like a cozy embrace.
What makes this soup even more comforting is its versatility. You can easily adjust the vegetables based on what you have in your fridge or pantry. Spinach, peas, or zucchini all make great additions, giving the soup even more texture and flavor. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, craving something light yet satisfying, or just need a quick and easy meal to put together, Pastina Soup checks all the boxes.
A Few Tips:
- Make it Heartier: For a heartier version, you can add a small handful of chopped cooked chicken, turkey, or even beans to the soup. This will add protein and make it a more filling meal.
- Use Homemade Broth: If you have the time, using homemade chicken or vegetable broth will elevate the flavor of the soup and make it even more comforting.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the pastina may absorb some of the liquid as it sits, so you might need to add a bit more broth when reheating.
- Add Greens: For added nutrition, you can toss in some spinach or kale right at the end of cooking and let it wilt into the soup.
Conclusion:
Pastina Soup is the epitome of comfort food. It’s simple, soothing, and full of flavor, making it the perfect dish for a chilly day, a sick day, or anytime you need something warm to lift your spirits. This soup is a reminder that sometimes, the simplest meals are the most satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or curling up with a bowl to enjoy on your own, this cozy, homemade soup is sure to bring comfort in every spoonful.
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