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.
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.