Pastina Soup Recipe (Italian Penicillin Soup)

Introduction

Pastina Soup, also known as “Italian Penicillin,” is a classic comfort dish in Italian cuisine. Known for its soothing, gentle flavors, this soup is traditionally made with tiny pasta shapes (called pastina) and is commonly served to children, the elderly, or anyone feeling under the weather. With simple ingredients like broth, pastina, eggs, and Parmesan cheese, it’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. This recipe provides the warmth and comfort of a homemade soup that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients

For this Pastina Soup Recipe (Italian Penicillin Soup), you’ll need the following:

4 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium)

1/2 cup pastina (tiny pasta shapes, such as stars or acini di pepe)

1 large egg

1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Preparation Time

Preparation Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Total Time: 15-17 minutes

Servings: Serves 2-3 as a light meal

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Instructions

Heat the Broth:

In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Add the Pastina:

Once the broth is boiling, add the pastina. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. Cook the pasta for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s tender but not mushy.

Prepare the Egg Mixture:

In a small bowl, beat the egg with the grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese adds richness and flavor to the egg, which will enhance the soup’s creamy texture.

Temper the Egg:

To avoid curdling, slowly pour a ladleful of the hot broth into the beaten egg mixture while stirring continuously. This will help to warm the egg gently without cooking it too quickly.

Add the Egg to the Soup:

Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour the tempered egg mixture into the pot, stirring constantly. The egg will create a creamy, slightly thickened texture in the soup, similar to a delicate egg drop soup.

Season and Serve:

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Perfect Pastina Soup

Use high-quality Broth: Since the soup relies on simple ingredients, using a flavorful broth (preferably homemade or a high-quality store-bought one) makes a big difference in taste.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Pastina cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t become too soft. Tender but firm pasta will give the soup a better texture.

Temper the Egg: To achieve a creamy consistency without curdling, temper the egg by slowly adding hot broth before mixing it into the soup. This helps the egg blend smoothly.

Add Flavor with Parmesan: Parmesan cheese adds a savory, umami flavor to the soup. If you prefer a richer taste, add more Parmesan or even a small piece of Parmesan rind to the broth as it cooks.

Customize with Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley add color and brightness. You can also try basil or thyme for a different flavor profile.

Adjust Seasoning at the End: Always taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper before serving. Broths and Parmesan cheese can vary in saltiness, so it’s best to season to taste.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Prepare Pastina Soup

Step 1: Heat the Broth

Begin by heating the chicken broth in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Using a good-quality broth is essential, as it forms the base of the soup’s flavor.

Step 2: Add the Pastina

When the broth starts to boil, add the pastina pasta. Stir occasionally and cook until the pasta is tender, around 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as pastina can become mushy quickly.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

While the pasta cooks, beat the egg in a small bowl with the grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese enriches the egg and adds depth to the soup.

Step 4: Temper the Egg

Slowly pour a ladle of hot broth into the beaten egg mixture while stirring. This process warms the egg without cooking it too fast, helping it blend smoothly into the soup.

Step 5: Add the Egg Mixture to the Soup

Reduce the heat to low and pour the egg mixture into the soup in a slow, steady stream while stirring. This will create a slightly creamy consistency and thicken the broth a bit.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Why You’ll Love This Pastina Soup

Comforting and Nutritious: This soup provides warmth and comfort, making it ideal for cold days or when you need a nourishing meal.
Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry ingredients, this recipe is affordable, quick, and easy to prepare.
Versatile and Customizable: You can add vegetables, herbs, or different types of cheese to personalize the flavor.
Quick to Make: Ready in under 20 minutes, this soup is perfect for a fast, satisfying meal any time of day.

Variations and Add-Ons

Vegetable Additions: Add diced carrots, celery, or spinach to make the soup heartier and more nutritious.
Herb Variations: Try adding fresh basil or thyme for an aromatic touch.
Cheese Options: While Parmesan is traditional, you can use Pecorino Romano or a similar aged cheese for a different flavor.
Protein Boost: Add cooked shredded chicken or a poached egg to make the soup more filling.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve this pastina soup with:

Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh baguette or sourdough bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.

Salad: Pair the soup with a light green salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic grilled cheese complements the creamy texture of the soup.

Final Thoughts

This Pastina Soup (Italian Penicillin Soup) is a comforting, wholesome dish that’s perfect for any occasion, especially when you’re in need of a warm, nourishing meal. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a go-to recipe for families, busy individuals, or anyone seeking a taste of Italian comfort food. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving something simple and delicious, this pastina soup is sure to bring a bit of comfort to your day.

This article provides a comprehensive guide for making Pastina Soup, covering everything from ingredients and instructions to tips and pairing suggestions. Let me know if you need further assistance or additional content!