Traditional Italian Pastina Soup

Save this recipe on:

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of Traditional Italian Pastina Soup. This cherished recipe is often one of the first dishes Italian children taste, and it’s just as beloved by adults seeking comfort, warmth, and a nostalgic reminder of home. The tiny pasta pearls, known as “pastina,” float in a savory broth and are enriched with grated cheese and sometimes an egg, making this dish as soothing as it is satisfying.

Ideal for chilly nights, under-the-weather days, or just when you need something cozy and uncomplicated, this soup comes together with minimal ingredients and maximum heart. It captures the soul of Italian home cooking: simple, nourishing, and made with love.

---

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Traditional Italian Pastina Soup?

Pastina, which literally means “little pasta,” comes in a variety of tiny shapes such as stars, dots, or alphabets. For this soup, the most classic choice is acini di pepe or stelline. These petite pieces cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the broth beautifully, creating a silky, satisfying texture.

---

Ingredients for the Traditional Italian Pastina Soup

• Pastina (Acini di Pepe or Stelline): The star of the show. These tiny pasta shapes add a soft, comforting texture to the soup.
• Chicken Broth: A rich, flavorful base that gives depth and warmth.
• Butter: Adds silkiness and a touch of richness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the broth for a salty, umami kick.
• Egg (optional): When whisked and stirred into the hot soup, it creates creamy ribbons similar to egg drop soup.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To season and balance flavors.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle of freshness and color before serving.

---

How To Make the Traditional Italian Pastina Soup

Step 1: Warm the Broth

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

Step 2: Cook the Pastina

Add the pastina to the boiling broth. Stir occasionally and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes, until the pasta is tender.

Step 3: Stir in Butter and Season

Once the pastina is cooked, stir in the butter and adjust with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the butter melt into the soup to create a smooth finish.

Step 4: Optional Egg Swirl

If you’re using an egg, crack it into a small bowl and beat it well. Slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the hot soup while stirring to form delicate egg ribbons.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.

---

Tips on Serving and Storing This Comforting Classic

Serve Traditional Italian Pastina Soup piping hot, ideally with extra Parmesan on the table for sprinkling. It’s perfect as a light meal or as a starter to a more robust Italian dinner.

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency, as the pastina will absorb much of the liquid over time.

---

What to Serve With Traditional Italian Pastina Soup?

Garlic Bread or Crostini

Perfect for dunking into the broth and soaking up every last drop.

Italian Antipasto Platter

Add some cured meats, olives, and cheeses for a fuller meal experience.

Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes

A flavorful, earthy side that balances the lightness of the soup. Try the recipe here: Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes

Southern Deviled Eggs

For a creamy and tangy bite alongside your warm bowl of comfort. Southern Deviled Eggs

Cheesecake Fruit Salad

Round out the meal with a light, creamy dessert that complements the soup’s simplicity. Cheesecake Fruit Salad

---

Want More Soup Ideas?

If you’re loving this Traditional Italian Pastina Soup, don’t miss these other soul-warming recipes:

• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for a rich, hearty bite.
• Cheeseburger Soup that brings together comfort food and soup in one bowl.
• Turkey Vegetable Soup for a lighter, veggie-packed alternative.
• Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup if you’re into slow-cooked, creamy goodness.
• Cabbage Fat Burning Soup when you want cozy and clean.

---

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of lemon or a veggie add-in? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: