Pasta Queen's Classic Pastina Soup Recipe

Craving a comforting, hearty meal that's easy to prepare and packed with flavor? Look no further than Pasta Queen's Pastina Soup, a delightful blend of Italian-inspired ingredients that'll warm your soul and satisfy your appetite. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, and it's sure to become a family favorite. Let's dive into this delicious and comforting dish.

Pastina soup is a traditional Italian dish that's often served as a first course or a light meal. It's typically made with small pasta shapes, like orzo or ditalini, in a clear, flavorful broth. The Pasta Queen's version adds a touch of creaminess and a variety of vegetables, making it a well-rounded and satisfying option for any time of day.

Gathering Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. This recipe uses a combination of pantry staples and fresh produce, ensuring a balanced and flavorful result.

Here's a list of ingredients you'll need for Pasta Queen's Pastina Soup:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup small pasta shapes (like orzo or ditalini)
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Building the Soup Base

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, then cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.

Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the pasta, potatoes, diced tomatoes (with juice), salt, black pepper, dried basil, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta and potatoes are tender.

Finishing Touches

If you'd like a slightly creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream at this point. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Ladle the Pastina Soup into bowls, then garnish each serving with chopped fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

This comforting and delicious soup is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat individual portions on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutritional Information

Pasta Queen's Pastina Soup is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (assuming 6 servings per batch):

Calories	Total Fat	Saturated Fat	Cholesterol	Sodium	Total Carbohydrate	Dietary Fiber	Sugars	Protein
320	9g	3g	15mg	840mg	48g	5g	6g	11g

This hearty soup offers a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, making it an excellent option for a well-rounded meal. Plus, it's packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and broth, ensuring you'll feel satisfied and nourished after enjoying a bowl.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get cooking! Pasta Queen's Pastina Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, and it's sure to become a staple in your household. Buon appetito!