Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Pastina Recipes

Pastina Recipes


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Comforting Italian pastina brings nostalgia and warmth to simple homemade meals, offering a delightful childhood memory in each spoonful. Pasta lovers will savor this classic Italian dish that serves as a perfect quick lunch or soothing dinner companion.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pastina pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 large egg

Optional Add-ins:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Seasonings:

  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 pinch dried parsley

Instructions

  1. Pour chicken broth into a medium saucepan and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
  2. Add pastina pasta to the boiling broth, stirring continuously to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta reaches tender consistency.
  4. Whisk egg in a separate small bowl until smooth and well-combined.
  5. Remove saucepan from heat and slowly drizzle whisked egg into the hot pasta, stirring rapidly to create a creamy texture without scrambling.
  6. Incorporate butter, stirring until completely melted and integrated into the pasta.
  7. Season with salt, black pepper, and sprinkle dried parsley throughout the mixture.
  8. Gently fold in grated parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and create a rich, velvety finish.
  9. Let the pastina rest for 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld and sauce to slightly thicken.
  10. Transfer to serving bowls, ensuring an even distribution of creamy pasta and seasonings.

Notes

  • Select small, star-shaped pastina pasta for authentic texture and traditional Italian comfort food experience.
  • Continuous stirring prevents pasta from clumping and ensures uniform cooking throughout the saucepan.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and enhance delicate pasta flavor without overwhelming seasoning.
  • Temper egg carefully by slowly drizzling into hot pasta while stirring rapidly to create silky, smooth consistency without scrambling.
  • Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for vegetarian version, maintaining identical cooking technique and creamy result.
  • Experiment with additional cheese variations like pecorino romano or aged asiago for unique flavor profiles.
  • Add sautéed garlic or fresh herbs like basil for enhanced aromatic depth and complexity to classic recipe.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 270
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 660mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg