This girl is all about those cozy, quick, and comforting meals – especially when life gets hectic. You know those days when you just need a hug in a bowl? That’s where my love for Easy Pastina Recipe comes in.
Growing up, pastina food was my go-to dish when I wasn’t feeling my best, or when I just wanted something warm and simple after school. It’s like the Italian version of chicken noodle soup, but with teeny tiny pasta stars that make it feel extra special.
Now, I’m not just talking about basic pastina here. Oh no, we’re going for that creamy, cheesy, buttery goodness that melts your worries away with every spoonful. This dish is seriously perfect for those nights when you want comfort food without the fuss.
Another recipe that you may like: Chicken Alfredo with Penne Pasta and Alfredo Sauce.
What is Pastina and Its Cultural Significance
Pastina, the tiny pasta shape often associated with childhood memories and home-cooked meals, is a staple in Italian cuisine. This easy pastina recipe can be transformed into a comforting dish known as Italian penicillin soup, a nickname affectionately given due to its nourishing qualities. Traditionally, it is often made with a light broth, perfect for soothing the soul during cold days or when feeling under the weather.
In Italian culture, food holds a special place, especially recipes passed down through generations. This Italian penicillin is more than just a dish; it's a warm hug in a bowl, reminding us of family gatherings and cherished moments. Incorporating pastine into your cooking not only enriches the meal but also evokes a sense of nostalgia that many can relate to.
Ingredients Used to Make Easy Pastina Recipe
You don’t need much to make this. In fact, you probably already have everything in your kitchen:
- Pastina: 1/2 cup (those tiny pasta stars—super cute and quick to cook)
- Chicken broth: 2 cups (for flavor and coziness)
- Butter: 1 tbsp (for that creamy goodness)
- Egg: 1 large (optional but adds richness)
- Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup, grated (because cheese = life)
- Salt & pepper: To taste
- Fresh parsley: Optional, chopped (for a pop of color)
How to Make Easy Pastina
Alright, let’s get cooking! This is one of those “blink and it's done” kind of recipes, so get ready.
- Cook the pastina: In a medium pot, bring your chicken broth to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, toss in the pastina and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes. These little guys cook fast, so keep an eye on them!
- Add the butter and egg: Once the pastina is tender, stir in the butter until it melts. If you’re feeling fancy, crack an egg into the pot and stir quickly to create a silky, creamy sauce (kind of like a cheat’s carbonara—yum!).
- Cheese it up: Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it’s all melted and gooey. The cheese makes everything better, trust me.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Want to add a little freshness? Toss in some chopped parsley for a hit of green.
- Serve: Spoon the pastina into a bowl, and there you have it—cozy, creamy, and oh-so-delicious!
This 10-Minute Easy Pastina Recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights, sick days, or when you just need a little extra coziness in your life. And hey, if your pastina happens to turn into your new comfort food obsession, no judgment here. It's so. dang. delish.
Sidekicks That'll Make Your Tiny Pasta Shine!
Pastina, those adorable little pasta stars, might be small in size but they’re BIG on comfort. So, what's the perfect sidekick for this tiny pasta powerhouse? Let's dive into a few mouthwatering options that'll elevate your pastina game to a whole new level!
- Brothy Bliss: Pastina is practically begging for a warm, flavorful broth to swim in. Think classic chicken noodle soup, but with a fun, textural twist. Add some shredded chicken, diced veggies, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, and you've got a soul-soothing meal that's as cozy as your favorite sweater.
- Saucy Delights: Don't underestimate pastina's ability to soak up delicious sauces! A simple tomato sauce with fresh basil is always a winner, but why not get adventurous? Try a creamy pesto, a lemony piccata, or even a spicy arrabbiata. Just remember, the smaller the pasta, the lighter the sauce!
- Cheesy Goodness: Pastina and cheese? It's a match made in cheesy heaven! Baked pastina with a gooey blend of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan is pure comfort food. Or, keep it simple with a toss of butter, grated Parmesan, and a crack of black pepper.
- Veggie Power: Pastina loves veggies! Add a vibrant mix of sauteed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a nutritional boost. Or, try a light and refreshing pastina salad with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette.
- Protein Punch: Looking for a more substantial meal? Pair pastina with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even meatballs for a protein-packed feast. The tiny pasta will soak up all those delicious flavors, leaving you feeling satisfied and energized.
Bonus Tip: Don't forget the crusty bread! It's the perfect tool for sopping up every last drop of that delicious broth or sauce.
Quick Cooking Recipe
- Preparation Time: 2 minutes
- Cooking Time: 7 minutes
- Inactive Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 9 minutes
- Author: Jen Sharpin | So Damn Delish
- Yield: 2 servings of comforting pastina
Cozy up with a simple, soothing easy pastina recipe! 10-minute comfort in a bowl. Creamy, cheesy tiny pasta stars. The ultimate easy Italian hug for your taste buds!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup pastina
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 large egg (optional)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Bring chicken broth to a boil in a medium pot. Add pastina and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
- Stir in butter until melted. Crack in an egg (if using) and stir quickly to combine.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes:
- Want to make it vegetarian? Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. You can also add a splash of cream for an even richer version.
- This dish is perfect for a quick meal, snack, or even when you’re feeling a little under the weather. Plus, kids love it too!
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Did you love this easy pastina recipe? Head over to So Damn Delish for more quick and delicious meal ideas that’ll warm you up from the inside out!
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Easy Pastina Recipe: Comforting Italian Penicillin Soup
Cozy up with an easy pastina recipe by So Damn Delish! 10-minute comfort only. Creamy, cheesy tiny pasta stars. The ultimate Italian hug for your taste buds!
- Total Time: 9 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings of comforting pastina 1x
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pastina
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 large egg (optional)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Bring chicken broth to a boil in a medium pot. Add pastina and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
- Stir in butter until melted. Crack in an egg (if using) and stir quickly to combine.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Want to make it vegetarian? Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. You can also add a splash of cream for an even richer version.
- This dish is perfect for a quick meal, snack, or even when you’re feeling a little under the weather. Plus, kids love it too!
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Inactive Time: 0 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Pasta
Nutrition
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
