Name: Traditional Italian Pastina Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup pastina (tiny pasta like stelline or acini di pepe); 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 1 carrot, finely diced; 1 celery stalk, finely diced; 1 small onion, finely diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

There’s something incredibly nostalgic and soul-soothing about a bowl of Traditional Italian Pastina Soup. This humble dish, often one of the first foods Italian children are given, carries with it generations of comfort, care, and simplicity. I grew up with this soup as a go-to remedy for colds, sadness, or even just chilly days, and to this day, it remains a treasured staple in my kitchen.

What makes this soup so special isn’t complexity or extravagance—it’s the warmth that comes from its simplicity. Just a handful of ingredients, a bit of patience, and a lot of love are all you need. The tender pastina, soft vegetables, and flavorful broth work together to create a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re new to Italian cooking or looking for a classic to return to, this one never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Traditional Italian Pastina Soup

This soup is the ultimate comfort food—light, wholesome, and so easy to make. It’s a great meal for both kids and adults, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or a cozy lunch. It’s also budget-friendly and made with pantry staples. Plus, the recipe is flexible, letting you adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home.

What Kind of Pastina Should I Use?

The traditional shape used in Italian homes is “stelline,” which are tiny star-shaped pasta. However, any small pasta will work well—acini di pepe, orzo, or even tiny ditalini. The key is choosing a pasta that cooks quickly and adds a delicate texture to the broth.

Options for Substitutions

If you’re out of pastina, don’t worry—you can still make this soup. Try using couscous or broken vermicelli noodles. Vegetable broth can easily replace chicken broth to make the dish vegetarian. For added protein, you can stir in a beaten egg at the end for an egg-drop effect or toss in shredded rotisserie chicken. Want more greens? Add a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.

Ingredients for This Traditional Italian Pastina Soup

Pastina (small pasta) – The heart of this soup. Its tiny shape makes it comforting and easy to digest.
Chicken broth (or vegetable broth) – This is the base of the soup, providing all the savory depth and warmth.
Carrots – Adds a natural sweetness and soft bite that balances the savory broth.
Celery – For a mild bitterness and earthiness that enhances the broth’s complexity.
Onion – Sautéed until soft and translucent, it creates the aromatic base for the soup.
Olive oil or butter – Used to sauté the vegetables and enhance the richness of the dish.
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning and balance.
Parmesan cheese (grated) – A finishing touch that adds a nutty, salty flavor and a creamy texture.
Fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish and a pop of fresh flavor at the end.

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by finely dicing the onion, carrot, and celery. These form the classic Italian soffritto and are the foundation of the soup’s flavor.

Step 2: Sauté for Flavor

Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced vegetables and cook them until they soften and become fragrant, about 6–8 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Cook the Pastina

Once the broth is boiling, stir in the pastina. Let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for about 5–7 minutes or until the pasta is tender.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once the pastina is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in a generous handful of grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra cheese, freshly ground black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil if you like. Serve immediately while hot and comforting.

How Long to Prepare the Traditional Italian Pastina Soup

Preparing this soup is quick and simple, which is part of its charm. From chopping to simmering, you can have it ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Preparation Time: Chopping the vegetables and gathering ingredients takes about 10 minutes. If you’re using pre-chopped veggies or a frozen mirepoix mix, it’ll go even faster.

Cooking Time: Sautéing the vegetables and cooking the pastina in broth takes another 15 to 20 minutes. The pasta cooks quickly, and the broth absorbs all the aromatic flavors in no time.

Tips for Perfect Traditional Italian Pastina Soup

Always sauté your vegetables until soft; it adds incredible depth to the broth.
Use a high-quality broth—it makes all the difference since it’s the main liquid.
Add Parmesan at the end for creaminess and a hit of umami.
Stir the pastina frequently while cooking to prevent clumping.
Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the pasta at its perfect texture.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the pasta – Pastina cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it or it’ll become mushy.
Not seasoning enough – Taste as you go. A bland broth can ruin the experience.
Skipping the sauté – Don’t just boil the veggies; sautéing builds flavor.
Using too much pasta – It expands and can soak up all the broth, making the soup too thick.
Reheating too long – The pasta can break down during reheating, so warm gently.

What to Serve With Traditional Italian Pastina Soup?

1. Crusty Italian Bread

Perfect for dunking and soaking up the flavorful broth.

2. Simple Green Salad

A crisp arugula or mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Serve with oven-roasted carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.

4. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A kid-friendly favorite that pairs well with the mildness of the soup.

5. Marinated Olives and Cheese

A small plate of olives and Parmigiano or mozzarella makes a lovely side.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the pasta will continue absorbing the broth, so the texture will thicken over time. You can add more broth or water when reheating.

Freezer: Not ideal. The pasta tends to break down and get mushy after thawing. If you want to freeze the soup, freeze the broth and vegetables only, then add fresh pastina when reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding extra broth if necessary. Microwave reheating is okay for small portions—just stir often.

Estimated Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl

Calories: ~220
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Sodium: 650mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Cholesterol: 8mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pastina?

Pastina is a tiny pasta shape commonly used in Italian soups. “Stelline” (little stars) are the most iconic, but there are several other small shapes.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute the pastina with a gluten-free tiny pasta or gluten-free couscous.

Can I make it vegan?

Absolutely. Use vegetable broth, skip the Parmesan or use a vegan alternative, and sauté in olive oil.

Is this soup good for kids?

Yes, it’s one of the best starter foods for kids. It’s easy to chew, gentle on the stomach, and nutritious.

Can I add meat?

Definitely! Add cooked shredded chicken, turkey, or even mini meatballs to make it heartier.

Conclusion

Traditional Italian Pastina Soup is the kind of recipe that stays with you. It’s simple, cozy, and full of heart—perfect for cold nights, comforting the sick, or warming up any day. Whether you’re recreating childhood memories or discovering this dish for the first time, it’s a bowl of pure love that belongs in everyone’s recipe rotation.