Healing Pastina Soup (Italian Penicillin Soup)

When I think back to my childhood, the scent of Healing Pastina Soup (Italian Penicillin Soup) is one of the most comforting memories I have. There’s something magical about how this humble dish can warm both the body and soul. My Nonna always knew when I needed a bowl of this delightful soup. She never asked; she just knew. I remember her bustling around the kitchen with her familiar, loving presence, and when she brought me that steaming bowl, it was like receiving a hug in a cup.

Nonna had this wonderful way of making even the simplest ingredients feel special. I recall one afternoon when she accidentally spilled a box of pastina all over the floor. We both laughed as she swept it up and added it to the pot, claiming it had gained a little “extra floor flavor.” It wasn’t about perfection; it was about love and togetherness. That’s what food is all about, especially in my kitchen. So, today, I’m sharing this cherished recipe with you, hoping it brings a bit of warmth to your home too.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

1. Comforting and Healing: This soup is like a warm hug on a cold day. It’s perfect for when you’re under the weather or just need a little pick-me-up. The combination of warm broth and tender pasta is soothing and can help ease the symptoms of a cold or flu.

2. Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike. The tiny, star-shaped pasta makes it fun for little ones, while the rich flavors satisfy grown-up palates. It’s a great way to introduce children to new textures and flavors in a familiar and comforting format.

3. Quick and Easy: With a prep time of only 10 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying meal without much fuss.

4. Flexible Ingredients: You can easily adapt it to what you have on hand. Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, and add more veggies if you like. Consider adding spinach, kale, or zucchini for extra nutrients

5. Nutritious and Light: Despite its comforting richness, this soup is light and nourishing, making it a great option for a healthy meal. It’s low in calories but high in flavor, ensuring that it satisfies without feeling heavy.

The Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 150 per serving

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 carrot, peeled and diced
• 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 3/4 cup pastina (or any tiny pasta like stelline or acini di pepe)
• 1 egg (optional, for added richness)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Start with Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and carrot, cooking for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant. This step is crucial as it forms the base of the soup’s flavor. The gentle sautéing process releases the natural sweetness of the onions and carrots, enhancing the overall taste.

2. Simmer the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simmering also helps to extract additional flavors from the vegetables, creating a richer broth.

3. Cook the Pasta: Add the pastina directly into the simmering broth. Cook uncovered for 5–6 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should absorb some of the broth, becoming flavorful and soft.

4. Add the Egg: (Optional) Beat the egg in a small bowl. Slowly drizzle it into the hot soup while stirring gently. This creates silky egg ribbons that add richness and texture to the soup. It’s a technique similar to making egg drop soup and adds a beautiful visual element.

5. Finish with Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan and season with salt and pepper to taste. The cheese adds a wonderful depth of flavor. As it melts, it thickens the soup slightly and imparts a creamy texture.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and sprinkle with extra Parmesan. A drizzle of olive oil on top adds a lovely finishing touch. The parsley not only adds color but also a fresh, herby note that brightens the dish.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl (for beating the egg)

These tools will help streamline the preparation process, ensuring that everything is ready when you need it. A sharp knife is particularly important for efficiently chopping vegetables.

The Benefits of Each Ingredient

• Olive Oil/Butter: Adds a rich base flavor and helps soften the vegetables. Olive oil also contributes healthy fats.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatics provide a savory depth that’s essential in soups. They are also known for their antibacterial properties, which can help boost the immune system.
• Carrot: Adds a touch of sweetness and a boost of vitamins. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is beneficial for eye health.
• Chicken Broth: Provides a rich, savory base. It’s also known for its healing properties, hence the name “Italian Penicillin.” It’s an excellent source of protein and minerals.
• Pastina: The star of the soup, these tiny pasta pieces make the dish fun and appealing. They cook quickly, making them perfect for a fast meal.
• Egg: Offers additional protein and richness. Eggs are also a source of essential amino acids.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, umami flavor that enhances the soup’s depth. It also contains calcium, contributing to bone health.
• Fresh Parsley: Brightens up the dish and adds a fresh, herbaceous note. Parsley is rich in vitamins A, C, and K.

What to Serve With This Soup

This Healing Pastina Soup pairs wonderfully with a simple Homemade Garlic Bread recipe I have on the blog. The crunchy, buttery bread complements the soup perfectly, providing a satisfying contrast to the soft pasta. You could also serve it alongside a Fresh Green Salad for a complete meal. A salad with a tangy vinaigrette would balance the creaminess of the soup beautifully. For a heartier option, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a light sandwich. A turkey and cheese sandwich, for example, would make this meal more substantial.

Storage & Leftover Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might need to add a bit more broth or water, as the pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it sits. This ensures the soup remains brothy and doesn’t turn into a stew. If you’re planning to freeze the soup, I recommend doing so before adding the pasta, as it tends to become mushy after freezing and thawing. You can cook fresh pasta and add it to the thawed soup for the best texture.

In conclusion, this Healing Pastina Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition of warmth, love, and healing. It’s the kind of dish that brings families together around the table, creating memories and sharing moments. I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as I do. Remember, the best ingredient in any dish is the love you put into it. Happy cooking, my friend!

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