Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 210
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
The Coziest Pastina Soup is a delightful dish that warms your soul and invigorates your senses. The tiny pasta combined with fresh vegetables creates a comforting bowl of goodness that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather. This soup is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. As you dip into this tender and nourishing soup, the rich aroma of chicken broth and the slight crunch of veggies will envelop your kitchen, making it an instant favorite.
Why Make This Coziest Pastina Soup
There are few dishes as wholesome and soothing as a bowl of pastina soup. This recipe is special because it combines a handful of simple ingredients into a symphony of taste. It’s comforting, filling, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak more vegetables into your diet without compromising on flavor. It’s especially great for families, as kids love the tiny pasta and vibrant colors.
How to Make Coziest Pastina Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pastina
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
- Olive oil
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.
-
Step 2: Mixing
Add the onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté these vegetables until they soften, about 5 minutes. The smell of the sautéing onion and carrot will be delightful!
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Step 3: Cooking
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the pastina and cook until it reaches al dente, according to package instructions.
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Step 4: Finishing
Stir in the chopped spinach and season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Serve Coziest Pastina Soup
Coziest Pastina Soup is best served hot in a cozy bowl, with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan on top. Pair it with some crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner, and great for hosting gatherings where warm food is a must.
How to Store Coziest Pastina Soup
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pastina may absorb some of the broth as it sits, so feel free to add extra broth when reheating to restore its original consistency. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup (without the spinach) for up to 3 months.
Expert Tips for Perfect Coziest Pastina Soup
- Pasta Cooking: Cook the pastina to al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the warm soup after the heat is turned off.
- Fresh Greens: Feel free to swap out spinach for other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard if you have them on hand.
- Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the soup, especially if you’re conscious about sodium intake.
- Extra Flavor: Add a dash of lemon juice just before serving for a bright finish.
Delicious Variations
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or chickpeas for added protein and heartiness.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance flavors by adding herbs like thyme or parsley while the broth heats.
- Vegetable Medley: Swap or add different vegetables, such as zucchini, peas, or bell peppers, for variations in color and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, using vegetable broth is a great way to make this soup vegetarian. -
What happens if I overcook the pastina?
Overcooked pastina can become mushy. Aim for al dente for the best texture. -
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors meld beautifully when made in advance. Just keep in mind that the pasta might absorb more broth as it rests. -
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor, or you might consider vegan cheese alternatives. -
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Simply substitute the pastina with a gluten-free pasta option, like rice or quinoa pasta.
Conclusion
The Coziest Pastina Soup is not just a recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl that’s easy to prepare and delicious to enjoy. With its comforting flavors and nourishing ingredients, this soup can quickly become a staple in your household. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or loved ones, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and dive into the coziest soup that warms both body and spirit!
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The Coziest Pastina Soup
- Author: lydia
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dish that warms the soul with tiny pasta and fresh vegetables, perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pastina
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
- Olive oil
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the pastina and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth. To control sodium intake, use low-sodium chicken broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg