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 mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Comfort Food, Main Dishes
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 people
Calories 200 kcal
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.
- 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
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.
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- 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