Nonna's pastina is the best medicine
Nonna's pastina is the best medicine is a easy Italian recipe that serves 2. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by The Spicy Nonna on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 12 min | Total: 20 min
Cost: $3.50 total, $1.75 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 cups Water (for boiling the pasta)
- 1 cup Pastina (star‑shaped small pasta) (about 200 g; any small pasta shape works)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (adds flavor to the cooking water)
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter (cut into small pieces for quick melting)
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan Cheese, grated (optional, adds savory depth)
Instructions
Boil Water
Fill the large pot with 4 cups of water, add 1 tsp salt, and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 100°C
Cook Pastina
Add 1 cup pastina to the boiling water, stir gently, and cook for 8‑10 minutes until the pasta is tender but still slightly al dente.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: 100°C
Drain Pasta
When the pastina is done, pour the pot through a colander, reserving a splash of cooking water if you like a looser sauce.
Time: PT1M
Add Butter
Return the drained pastina to the pot, add 1 tbsp butter, and toss over low heat until the butter is fully melted and evenly coats the pasta.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: low heat
Finish with Cheese (Optional)
Sprinkle 2 tbsp grated Parmesan over the buttered pastina, stir gently until the cheese melts into a silky coating.
Time: PT1M
Serve
Transfer the pastina to bowls, serve immediately while warm. Enjoy the nostalgic comfort!
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 250
- Protein
- 6 g
- Carbohydrates
- 45 g
- Fat
- 6 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Pastina (star‑shaped small pasta): Orzo, Acini di pepe, Small shells
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt, Kosher salt
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Olive oil, Margarine
- Instead of Parmesan Cheese, grated: Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Cup
- Measuring Spoons
- Cheese Grater (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Boil water with salt until rolling
- Cook pastina to al dente
- Melt butter fully without browning
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use high‑quality butter for a richer flavor; browning it slightly adds a nutty note.
- Grate fresh Parmesan at the table for maximum aroma.
- A drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil after plating adds shine and depth.
Troubleshooting
Pastina is mushy
Reduce cooking time by 1‑2 minutes and test for texture earlier.
Pasta sticks together
Stir frequently while cooking and add a splash of oil or butter after draining.
Butter separates
Lower the heat and whisk continuously until the butter emulsifies with the pasta.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or butter.
Freezer: Can freeze for up to 1 month; thaw and reheat on the stovetop with added butter.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature longer than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook the pastina ahead and keep it refrigerated; reheat with a knob of butter to restore creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Pastina with Butter in Italian cuisine?
Pastina, meaning "little pasta," has long been a staple in Italian households as a quick, soothing dish for children and the elderly. Traditionally served with butter or a simple broth, it evokes memories of home‑cooked comfort and is often prepared for sick family members or as a nostalgic snack.
How was Pastina with Butter traditionally served in Southern Italy?
In Southern Italy, pastina is often cooked in a light broth, finished with a generous knob of butter, and sometimes topped with grated Pecorino or Parmesan. It may be served as a first course (primo) or as a simple supper for children.
What occasions or celebrations is Pastina with Butter traditionally associated with in Italian families?
Pastina is commonly prepared for family gatherings when a quick, comforting dish is needed—such as after a long day, during illness, or at informal celebrations like birthday parties for young children. Its simplicity makes it a go‑to comfort food for any casual Italian household.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Pastina with Butter versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include small pasta (pastina), salted water, unsalted butter, and optionally grated Parmesan. Acceptable substitutes are any tiny pasta shape (orzo, acini di pepe), olive oil in place of butter for a lighter version, and Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan.
What other Italian dishes pair well with Pastina with Butter?
Pastina pairs nicely with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light tomato sauce. For a fuller meal, serve it alongside meatballs, grilled chicken, or a hearty minestrone soup.
How does Pastina with Butter fit into the broader Italian cuisine tradition?
Pastina exemplifies the Italian principle of "cucina povera" – making the most of a few humble ingredients. Its quick preparation and comforting texture reflect the Italian love for simple, flavorful dishes that can be made in minutes.
What are common misconceptions about Pastina with Butter in Italian cooking?
A common misconception is that pastina is only for children; in Italy it is enjoyed by all ages as a quick comfort food. Another myth is that it must always include cheese—many traditional families serve it plain with butter only.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Pastina with Butter?
Common mistakes include overcooking the pastina, which turns it mushy, and adding butter while the pasta is still too hot, causing the butter to separate. Also, forgetting to salt the cooking water results in bland pasta.
Why does this Pastina with Butter recipe use butter instead of olive oil?
Butter provides a rich, creamy mouthfeel that complements the tiny pasta’s delicate texture, creating a nostalgic flavor profile. Olive oil can be used for a lighter version, but butter is traditional for the comforting taste described by The Spicy Nonna.
What does the YouTube channel The Spicy Nonna specialize in?
The YouTube channel The Spicy Nonna specializes in Italian comfort food with a modern twist, focusing on quick, family‑friendly recipes that blend traditional flavors with approachable techniques for home cooks.
How does the YouTube channel The Spicy Nonna's approach to Italian cooking differ from other Italian cooking channels?
The Spicy Nonna emphasizes nostalgic, memory‑driven dishes like pastina, using straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, whereas many other Italian channels often showcase elaborate regional specialties or gourmet techniques.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
