Pastina – Italian Comfort Food
Pastina is the ultimate Italian comfort food—perfect for when you need something warm and nourishing. This simple recipe is ready in just 8 minutes and always hits the spot!
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Servings: 2
Notes
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup (4oz / 120g) pastina (such as stelline)
- 3 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
- 4 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese (finely grated)
- Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
- Additional black pepper
Instructions:
- Boil the Broth: In a small pot, add the vegetable broth and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cover with a lid and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Pastina: Once the broth is boiling, add the pastina and stir well to prevent clumping. Continue stirring occasionally as it cooks until al dente (following package instructions, usually 5-8 minutes).
- Make It Creamy: Once the pastina is cooked, turn off the heat and stir in the finely grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the broth thickens into a creamy consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy: Divide into bowls, drizzle with a bit more olive oil, sprinkle extra Parmesan and black pepper on top, and enjoy this cozy Italian classic!
- Stir Frequently: Pastina can stick to the bottom of the pot, so keep an eye on it and stir regularly. It also cooks quickly and can become mushy if overcooked.
- Use High-Quality Parmesan: For the best flavor, buy a fresh block of Parmesan and grate it finely to prevent clumping.
- Choose a Good Broth: If using store-bought broth, opt for a high-quality brand to enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, stir in diced carrots, celery, or broccoli while cooking.