Italian Pastina Soup: 7 Comforting Ways to Warm Your Soul

Name: Italian Pastina Soup: 7 Comforting Ways to Warm Your Soul
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup pastina; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

By:

Christina R. Jones

October 10, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Italian pastina soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s one of those comforting dishes that wraps you in nostalgia, reminding you of cozy family dinners or rainy afternoons spent indoors. The beauty of this soup is how incredibly simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a pot of pure goodness in about 25 minutes! Trust me, you’ll want this recipe in your back pocket.

italian pastina soup - detail 1

The star here is the pastina, those tiny pasta shapes that practically dance in the broth, soaking up all the flavors. Combined with fragrant garlic, fresh vegetables, and rich chicken broth, each spoonful is a delight that warms the soul. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it accessible for everyone at your table. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a quick, hearty meal, this Italian pastina soup is the perfect solution. Grab your pot, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Italian Pastina Soup

1 cup pastina – those little pasta stars that add a delightful texture to the soup.
4 cups chicken broth – use homemade if you can for the best flavor, but store-bought works just fine!
1 medium onion, diced – this adds a sweet, aromatic base to the soup.
2 carrots, diced – they bring a hint of natural sweetness and color.
1 celery stalk, diced – for that classic soup flavor and crunch.
2 cloves garlic, minced – because what’s a good soup without garlic?
2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the veggies and adding richness.
Salt and pepper to taste – season to your liking; I always say, taste as you go!
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – it adds a pop of color and freshness at the end.

How to Prepare Italian Pastina Soup

Step-by-Step Instructions

Getting this Italian pastina soup ready is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step! Let’s dive in and let the deliciousness unfold.

Heat the olive oil: Start by pouring 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a large pot and heat it over medium heat. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke, so keep an eye on it!
Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re softened and the onion turns translucent. This step builds a lovely flavor base!
Incorporate the garlic: Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. You’ll want to keep stirring because garlic can burn quickly, and we don’t want that bitter taste ruining our soup!
Add the chicken broth: Now, pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and crank up the heat until it reaches a boil. This is where the magic really starts to happen!
Cook the pastina: Once the broth is boiling, add the 1 cup of pastina. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes. Keep stirring gently to ensure the pastina doesn’t stick together.
Season it up: After the pastina is cooked to perfection, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, start with a little and add more if needed!
Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and finish it off with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for that burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, and enjoy every warm, comforting spoonful!

And there you have it! A simple and satisfying Italian pastina soup that’s ready to warm your heart and belly. Don’t forget to taste along the way; it’s part of the fun!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights!
Comforting Flavors: Each spoonful is packed with the warm, familiar tastes of home, making it the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.
Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh vegetables and rich chicken broth, this soup is not only delicious but also nourishing for your body and soul.
Gluten-Free Option: Since pastina is gluten-free, everyone at the table can enjoy this hearty soup without worry.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own – the possibilities are endless!

Tips for Success

Making the perfect Italian pastina soup is all about the details! Here are my top tips to ensure you get that warm hug in a bowl every time:

Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery. The longer you let them cook, the sweeter and more flavorful your base will be. Aim for that lovely translucent onion color!
Monitor the Garlic: Garlic can go from fragrant to burnt in a flash! Keep an eye on it while it cooks and stir often, so you get that delicious aroma without the bitterness.
Use Quality Broth: If you can, opt for homemade chicken broth. It makes a world of difference in flavor! If you’re using store-bought, look for low-sodium versions, so you can control the saltiness better.
Check the Pastina: Each brand of pastina can have slightly different cooking times, so be sure to follow the package instructions closely. You want it al dente, not mushy!
Taste as You Go: This is my golden rule! Taste your soup after adding salt and pepper, and adjust as needed. Everyone’s palate is different, so make it your own!
Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also a fresh burst of flavor. Don’t skimp on it! You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top for a rich, savory finish.
Make It Ahead: This soup stores beautifully, so consider making a larger batch for easy meals throughout the week. Just reheat gently on the stove, and you’re good to go!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering Italian pastina soup. Happy cooking!

Variations of Italian Pastina Soup

The beauty of Italian pastina soup is its versatility! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to change things up and make this comforting soup uniquely yours:

Add More Vegetables: Feel free to toss in any vegetables you love! Spinach or kale added in the last few minutes of cooking gives a vibrant green color and extra nutrients. You might also try zucchini, peas, or even a handful of corn for sweetness.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor! Consider adding a few sprigs of thyme or rosemary while the broth is simmering. Just remember to remove them before serving. You can also finish with a drizzle of basil pesto for a fresh twist.
Protein Boost: Want to make it heartier? Add shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked sausage. Just toss it in during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through. For a vegetarian option, chickpeas or white beans would provide protein and a nice texture.
Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the vegetables. It adds a nice kick without overwhelming the comforting flavors.
Grain Swap: While pastina is a classic, you can swap it for other small pasta shapes like orzo or even rice for a different texture. Just adjust the cooking time based on what you choose!
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese just before serving for a rich, creamy finish. You can also sprinkle it on top as a garnish!

These variations give you plenty of room to experiment, so don’t hesitate to get creative! Each version of Italian pastina soup will have its own special charm, keeping your meals exciting and delicious!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve made a big pot of this delightful Italian pastina soup, you might be wondering how to store leftovers. No worries, I’ve got you covered! This soup actually keeps quite well, so you can enjoy it for days to come.

Storing Leftovers: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’s best to store it in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Just make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. It can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, here’s how to reheat it perfectly:

On the Stove: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. If it’s too thick after sitting in the fridge, add a splash of water or extra broth to loosen it up.
In the Microwave: Transfer a portion of the soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a paper towel to prevent splatters. Heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until it’s hot all the way through.

Just a quick tip: since pastina tends to absorb liquid over time, you might find the soup a bit thicker than when you first made it. Adding a splash of broth or water while reheating helps bring it back to that lovely, soupy consistency! Enjoy every last drop!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to comfort food, Italian pastina soup not only warms your heart but also fits nicely into your nutritional goals! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 220
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 8g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. If you’re swapping out the chicken broth for a homemade version or adding extra veggies or proteins, the nutrition will adjust accordingly. Enjoy this wholesome soup, knowing it’s not just delicious but also nourishing!

FAQ About Italian Pastina Soup

Got questions about Italian pastina soup? No worries! I’ve gathered some of the most common queries to help you out. Let’s dive in!

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth? Absolutely! If you want to keep it vegetarian or vegan, vegetable broth is a fantastic substitute. It will still give you that delicious base flavor.
What if I can’t find pastina? No problem! You can swap it for other small pasta shapes like orzo or acini di pepe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta types may vary!
How can I make this soup heartier? If you want to add some protein, shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked sausage makes a great addition. Stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking to warm it through. You can also toss in some beans for added fiber!
Is this soup good for meal prep? Yes! This soup stores well, so feel free to make a big batch. Just remember that pastina can soak up liquid as it sits, so you might need to add a splash of broth when reheating.
Can I freeze Italian pastina soup? Definitely! Freeze it in an airtight container, leaving some space for expansion. It can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
What’s the best way to reheat this soup? The stovetop method is my favorite! Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally. If it’s thick, a splash of water or broth will help restore its soupy goodness.
Can I add more spices or herbs? For sure! Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick, or you can toss in some fresh basil or thyme for an extra burst of flavor.

If you have any more questions or tips of your own, drop them in the comments! Happy cooking!