Pastina Soup Recipe

This Pastina Soup is warm, comforting, and packed with nourishing vegetables. It’s the perfect bowl of goodness when you need something cozy and simple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light yet Satisfying – A warm and hearty soup without being too heavy.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in about 40 minutes with minimal effort.
• Kid-Friendly – Soft pastina makes this a favorite for all ages.
• Customizable – Use your favorite small pasta and adjust the seasonings to taste.

Ingredients

• Vegetable broth – 6 cups, reduced-sodium.
• Onion – 1 medium, chopped.
• Carrots – 2 medium, chopped.
• Celery – 3 ribs, chopped.
• Garlic cloves – 2, peeled.
• Salt – 1 teaspoon.
• Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon.
• Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup, shredded or grated, divided.
• Acini di pepe, orzo, or ditalini pasta – 1 ½ cups.
• Fresh parsley – 1 tablespoon, minced.

Full ingredient measurements are in the recipe card below!

How to Make Pastina Soup

Step 1: Simmer the Vegetables

1. In a Dutch oven or stockpot, bring broth to a simmer over medium-low heat.
2. Add onion, carrot, celery, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, until the vegetables are soft.

Step 2: Blend the Soup

1. Stir in 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese.
2. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup. Alternatively, cool slightly and puree in batches in a blender, then return to the pot.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring the soup back to a boil.
2. Stir in pasta and reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Cook for 9-11 minutes, until the pasta is tender.

Step 4: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with remaining Parmesan cheese, parsley, and extra black pepper, if desired.

this Recipe

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Parmesan – Adds the best flavor and creaminess.
• Customize the Pasta – Try different small pasta shapes for variety.
• For Extra Creaminess – Stir in a splash of milk or heavy cream before serving.
• Make it Heartier – Add shredded rotisserie chicken or chickpeas for more protein.

How to Serve

• With Crusty Bread – Perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• With a Side Salad – A fresh green salad balances the soup beautifully.
• As a Light Meal – Enjoy on its own or alongside a grilled cheese sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Freeze without pasta for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and adding fresh pasta.

Reheating

• Stovetop – Warm over low heat, adding broth if needed.
• Microwave – Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta or rice instead.

How can I add more protein?
Try stirring in shredded chicken, chickpeas, or white beans.

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Absolutely! Chicken broth adds extra richness.

What if I don’t have an immersion blender?
Carefully blend in batches using a regular blender, then return to the pot.

This Pastina Soup is the ultimate cozy meal, simple to make and full of nourishing flavors. Try it tonight!

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