This Pastina Soup is often called Italian penicillin — a simple, soothing bowl of comfort made with tiny pasta, warm broth, and a touch of Parmesan. It’s light, cozy, and perfect when you’re feeling under the weather, need something gentle on the stomach, or just crave a warm, nostalgic Italian-style soup.
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Serves: about 3–4
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Prep time: 5–10 minutes
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Cook time: 10–15 minutes
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Total time: about 20 minutes
Ingredients
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6 cups broth (chicken, vegetable, or beef)
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1½ cups pastina pasta (or any very small pasta shape)
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6 cherry tomatoes
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Salt, to taste
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
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Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling (optional but recommended)
How to Make Pastina Soup
Prepare the Tomatoes
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Wash the cherry tomatoes.
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With a small knife, score a shallow X on the bottom of each tomato.
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Bring some water to a boil (you can use a kettle).
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Place the tomatoes in a heat-safe bowl and pour the hot water over them.
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Let them sit for 2–3 minutes, then drain.
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When cool enough to handle, peel off the skins and chop the tomatoes.
Cook the Broth and Pastina
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Pour the broth into a large pot and bring it to a boil over high heat.
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Add the chopped cherry tomatoes to the broth.
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Once the broth returns to a boil, stir in the pastina.
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Reduce heat to medium and cook according to the package directions, stirring occasionally so the tiny pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Finish the Soup
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When the pastina is tender, turn off the heat.
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Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and a light drizzle of olive oil.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Serve
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Ladle the soup into bowls while it’s still piping hot.
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Add a little extra Parmesan on top if you like.
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Serve with crusty bread or toast on the side for the ultimate comfort meal.
Tips & Variations
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For extra richness, stir in a small knob of butter or a spoonful of cream at the end.
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Add a beaten egg and whisk it into the hot soup (off the heat) for an egg-drop-style twist.
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Boost the nutrition with a handful of spinach, peas, or finely chopped carrots added while the pastina cooks.
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Use homemade bone broth or chicken broth for an even more comforting, “healing” version.
Description
This Italian Pastina Soup is:
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Warm, soothing, and easy on the stomach
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Ready in about 20 minutes
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Perfect for kids, elders, and anyone craving a simple bowl of comfort
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A beautiful example of how Italian cooking turns a few basic ingredients into something soulful and satisfying
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