Italian Penicillin (Pastina Soup)
Italian Penicillin, or Pastina Soup, is the ultimate comfort food. Made with small, star-shaped pasta (pastina) simmered in chicken broth, enriched with egg, Parmesan cheese, and butter, this soothing soup is perfect when you’re feeling under the weather or craving a cozy meal. It’s quick, easy, and heartwarming in every bite!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food, Italian
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Base:
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup pastina pasta
Enrichment:
1 egg, beaten
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon butter
Seasoning:
Salt
Black pepper
Instructions
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Prepare the Base: Bring the chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat in a medium-sized pot.
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Cook the Pastina: Add the pastina pasta and cook according to package instructions (typically 5-7 minutes) until the pasta is tender.
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Enrich the Soup: While the pasta is cooking, beat the egg in a small bowl. Lower the heat to low once the pasta is cooked and slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the soup while stirring continuously. This will create silky strands of egg throughout the broth.
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Add the Parmesan and Butter: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and butter until fully melted and incorporated, adding richness to the soup.
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Season the Soup: Taste the soup and adjust with salt and black pepper to your preference.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately for a comforting and nourishing meal.
Notes
Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the Parmesan if needed for a completely vegetarian version.
Herbed Twist: Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor before serving.
Extra Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked shredded chicken.
Lemon Zest: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a bit of lemon zest to bring a refreshing twist.
Find it online: https://familydinnercooking.com/italian-penicillin-pastina-soup/
