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Pastina Recipe

Small and comforting, pastina is a staple in many Italian households, cherished for its simplicity and heartwarming nature. This recipe features tiny pasta pieces, often star-shaped, cooked in broth, and enriched with cheese and butter.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Comfort Food, Main Dishes
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 people
Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Pot For boiling the pastina pasta. Ensure it is large enough to allow the pasta to cook evenly without sticking together.
  • 1 Saucepan For preparing the broth base. It should be deep enough to accommodate all the ingredients and allow for simmering.
  • 1 Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula For stirring the pasta and broth mixture gently, ensuring even cooking and preventing sticking.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons For accurately measuring out ingredients like broth, cheese, and seasonings.
  • Colander For draining the cooked pastina after boiling. Make sure it has a fine mesh to prevent small pasta pieces from falling through.
  • 1 Bowl For mixing additional ingredients like grated cheese or herbs before adding them to the dish.
  • 1 Grater For grating Parmesan cheese directly over the finished dish, enhancing flavor and texture.
  • 1 Food Processor or Blender For creating a creamy sauce if you choose to add cream or milk to the recipe.
  • 1 Slow Cooker For a hands-off approach, especially when making a larger batch of pastina soup.

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces Acini de Pepe or Stelline Pasta
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth or vegetable broth for vegetarian option
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • 1 Onion small finely chopped
  • 1 Carrot medium diced
  • 1 Celery stalk diced
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese grated
  • Salt and Pepper To taste

Optional Additions:

  • Fresh Herbs Such as parsley or basil chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup Cream for creamier texture

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta :

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add the acini de pepe or stelline pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 5-8 minutes.
  • Drain the pasta and set aside.

Prepare the Broth Base :

  • In a separate saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
  • Add the finely chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they become soft, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Combine Pasta and Broth :

  • Add the cooked pasta to the simmering broth mixture.
  • Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add Cheese and Optional Ingredients :

  • Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and broth mixture. Stir gently until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
  • If desired, add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and aroma.
  • For a creamier texture, stir in a quarter cup of cream.

Final Touches :

  • Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth.
  • Serve the pastina hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

    • Choosing the Right Broth: Chicken broth is popular for its depth and hearty flavor. Vegetable broth is a great alternative for those seeking a lighter or vegetarian option.
    • Enhancing with Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese is the most traditional choice, offering a nutty, salty flavor. Pecorino Romano and Parmigiano Reggiano are excellent alternatives.
    • Vegetables and Herbs: Adding vegetables like onions, garlic, carrots, and celery provides a flavorful base. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can brighten the dish.
    • Storage and Reheating: Leftover pastina can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, place the pastina in a pan with a bit of broth and warm it on low-medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the essential ingredients for pastina?
    • The essential ingredients include acini de pepe or stelline pasta, chicken or vegetable broth, unsalted butter, onions, carrots, celery, and Parmesan cheese.
  • Can I make pastina a vegetarian dish?
    • Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any meat-based ingredients. Adding vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, and garlic can create a fresh and satisfying vegetarian dish.
  • How do I store leftover pastina?
    • Store leftover pastina in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a bit of broth or milk to prevent it from becoming dry.
  • What are some variations of pastina dishes?
    • Variations include creamy pastina with added cheese and cream, pastina soup with vegetables and beans, vegetarian options with fresh herbs, and protein additions like diced chicken or turkey.
Keyword Broth-Based Dish, Italian Comfort Food, Pastina, Tiny Pasta