Pastina Soup Recipe

Pastina Soup Recipe is a easy Italian recipe that serves 4. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by The Mediterranean Dish on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 35 min | Total: 1 hr

Cost: $6.50 total, $1.63 per serving

Ingredients

  • 6 cups Chicken Broth (store‑bought, low‑sodium preferred)
  • 1 medium Onion (peeled and cut into large chunks)
  • 2 Carrots (peeled and cut into large chunks)
  • 2 Celery Stalks (cut into large chunks)
  • 1 Parmesan Rind (whole rind, adds depth of flavor)
  • 1 cup Pastina (tiny pasta; star‑shaped or any small shape works)
  • 1 pinch Salt (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prep Vegetables

    Peel the onion and carrots, then cut the onion, carrots, and celery into large, bite‑size chunks.

    Time: PT7M

  2. Start the Broth

    In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, vegetable chunks, and the Parmesan rind. Turn the heat to medium‑high and bring to a rolling boil.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: medium-high

  3. Simmer the Soup

    Reduce the heat to low, place the lid on partially (allowing a small vent), and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are very tender.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: low

  4. Puree the Vegetables

    Using a ladle, transfer the cooked vegetables (leaving the Parmesan rind out) into the food processor. Blend until smooth, creating a thick puree.

    Time: PT5M

  5. Return Puree to Pot

    Pour the vegetable puree back into the pot, stir, and bring the soup back to a gentle bubble.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: medium

  6. Add Pasta and Season

    Season the soup with a pinch of salt, then add the pastina. Stir and cook for 3 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: medium

  7. Finish and Serve

    Turn off the heat, ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
150
Protein
6 g
Carbohydrates
40 g
Fat
3 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Contains meat, Contains gluten, Contains dairy, Not vegan, Not vegetarian

Allergens: Dairy, Gluten, Chicken

Last updated: April 17, 2026

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Pastina Soup Recipe

Recipe by The Mediterranean Dish

A comforting Italian penicillin soup made with chicken broth, simmered vegetables, a Parmesan rind, and tiny pastina pasta. The veggies are pureed back into the broth for a golden hue and extra nutrition. Quick, healing, and perfect for chilly days.

EasyItalianServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
11m
Prep
33m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
54m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$6.50
Total cost
$1.63
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Simmer the broth with vegetables and Parmesan rind for full flavor extraction.
  • Puree the cooked vegetables and return them to the pot for a creamy texture.
  • Do not overcook the pastina; it should be al dente and will continue to soften off the heat.

Safety Warnings

  • The broth and puree are very hot; handle with care to avoid burns.
  • When using the food processor, ensure the lid is securely locked before blending.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Pastina Soup (Italian Penicillin) in Italian cuisine?

A

Pastina Soup, affectionately called "Italian penicillin," is a classic comfort food that Italian families have served for generations, especially to soothe colds and boost morale. Its simplicity—broth, tiny pasta, and a Parmesan rind—reflects the Italian tradition of turning humble pantry staples into nourishing meals.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Pastina Soup (Italian Penicillin) in Italy?

A

In northern Italy, the broth may be enriched with butter and a splash of white wine, while southern versions often add a touch of tomato paste or fresh herbs like basil. Some families swap the Parmesan rind for a Pecorino romano rind for a sharper flavor.

cultural
Q

How is Pastina Soup (Italian Penicillin) traditionally served in Italian households?

A

It is typically served hot in shallow bowls, topped with a generous shaving of fresh Parmesan and a drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil. A side of crusty bread or a simple bruschetta is common to soak up the flavorful broth.

cultural
Q

On what occasions or celebrations is Pastina Soup (Italian Penicillin) traditionally associated in Italian culture?

A

The soup is often prepared for family gatherings during the colder months, after a day of outdoor work, or when someone is feeling under the weather. It’s also a staple at Sunday lunch when a light starter is desired before a larger meat or fish main.

cultural
Q

What other Italian dishes pair well with Pastina Soup (Italian Penicillin)?

A

A crisp Caesar salad, roasted chicken thighs, or a simple baked fish with lemon make excellent companions. The lightness of the soup balances richer mains, creating a well‑rounded Italian meal.

cultural
Q

What makes Pastina Soup (Italian Penicillin) special or unique in Italian cuisine?

A

Its unique combination of a Parmesan rind and pureed vegetables gives the broth a golden, velvety hue and deep umami flavor that sets it apart from ordinary chicken‑broth soups. The technique of re‑incorporating the veggie puree maximizes nutrition and flavor without extra cream.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Pastina Soup (Italian Penicillin)?

A

Over‑cooking the pastina, forgetting to remove the Parmesan rind before pureeing, and letting the soup boil too vigorously are common pitfalls. Keep the simmer gentle and add the pasta at the very end for the best texture.

technical
Q

Why does this Pastina Soup (Italian Penicillin) recipe use a Parmesan rind instead of grated cheese during cooking?

A

The rind releases flavor slowly as it simmers, infusing the broth with a subtle, nutty depth without making the soup overly salty. Adding grated cheese later preserves its bright, sharp finish as a garnish.

technical
Q

Can I make Pastina Soup (Italian Penicillin) ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes. Prepare the broth and puree the vegetables up to step 5, then refrigerate the puree separately. Add the pastina and finish the soup just before serving. Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel The Mediterranean Dish specialize in?

A

The Mediterranean Dish focuses on authentic Mediterranean and Middle‑Eastern home cooking, offering step‑by‑step video tutorials that blend traditional flavors with modern, approachable techniques.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel The Mediterranean Dish's approach to Italian cooking differ from other Italian cooking channels?

A

The Mediterranean Dish emphasizes wholesome, ingredient‑driven recipes that often incorporate health‑ful twists, such as using broth shortcuts and vegetable purees, while still honoring classic Italian flavor profiles. The host’s personable storytelling adds cultural context that many other channels omit.

channel

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