How to Make Pastina Soup Italian Penicillin for Cold Relief

As the chilly winds of winter start to blow, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to wrap you in comfort. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Pastina Soup, often referred to as Italian Penicillin. This delightful dish is not only a family favorite but also one of those easy pasta recipes that can be whipped up in no time. Perfect for quick family dinners or when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup is a hug in a bowl!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a comforting and healing soup, perfect for cold days.
• Quick to prepare, making it ideal for 30-minute meals.
• Rich in flavor with simple, wholesome ingredients.
• Great for the whole family, even picky eaters!
• Can be customized with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Pastina Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon carrot, peeled and minced
• 1 tablespoon celery, minced
• 1 tablespoon yellow onion, minced
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 48 ounces of chicken stock (1.5 containers)
• 3/4 cup dried acini di pepe pasta (pastina pasta)
• 1 egg
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon black pepper + 1/4 cup parmigiano reggiano for topping

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this heartwarming soup:

1. Heat a dutch oven to medium-low heat on the stovetop. Add in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to warm up. Pour in the celery, carrot, onion, garlic, and salt, and cook to soften for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
2. Pour in the chicken stock, stir, and cover for 10 minutes.
3. Add in the pastina. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through, making sure the pasta isn’t sticking to the bottom of the pot.
4. As the pasta is cooking, temper the egg by whisking it first. Then, slowly pour in a hot ladle full of the chicken broth from the soup while still whisking quickly at the same time to help cook the egg.
5. Pour the tempered egg into the soup. Stir well, then cover the soup for another 5 minutes.
6. The soup is ready to serve! Pull the dutch oven off the heat immediately to avoid the pasta from swelling up in the broth and overcooking.
7. Top with parmesan cheese and black pepper, if desired, and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your Pastina Soup turns out perfectly:

• Feel free to add in some cooked chicken or vegetables for extra nutrition.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or milk at the end.
• For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.
• Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
• For a twist, try using different pasta varieties if you can’t find acini di pepe.

How to Serve

This Homemade Soup Recipe is best served hot, straight from the pot. I love to garnish mine with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmigiano reggiano and a dash of black pepper. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping, making it a complete meal. It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or when you need a little extra comfort.

Make Ahead and Storage

If you want to prepare this soup in advance, it’s a great idea! You can make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember that the pasta will continue to absorb the broth, so you might want to add a little extra chicken stock when reheating. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave out the egg and add it fresh when you reheat the soup.

For more delicious and healthy recipes, check out my posts on Healthy Drinks and Juices to Hydrate and Cleanse the Body and Green Detox Juice. And if you’re looking for something to help with inflammation, don’t miss my Anti-Inflammatory Detox Home Remedy Green Juice.

So, the next time you’re feeling under the weather or just need a comforting meal, remember this Pastina Soup. It’s not just a soup; it’s a warm embrace on a cold day. Enjoy every spoonful!