Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that's both quick to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further than this simple yet satisfying recipe for pastina in chicken broth. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a cozy lunch, or even a soothing remedy when you're feeling under the weather. Pastina, tiny pasta shapes, cooks in minutes, making this a true champion among quick dinner ideas. It's a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be both effortless and incredibly rewarding. This dish is also naturally a healthy meal, packed with protein and flavor.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup pastina pasta
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Simple Guide
-
Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your entire dish.
-
Simmer the Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the saucepan. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer.
-
Cook the Pastina: Add the pastina to the simmering broth. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
-
Season and Garnish: Once the pastina is cooked, stir in the fresh parsley. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If using, stir in the Parmesan cheese.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the pastina into bowls and serve immediately. This simple dish is best enjoyed hot, offering a comforting warmth on a chilly evening.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pastina
- Don't overcook the pastina: Overcooked pastina will become mushy and lose its texture. Cook it until it's al dente, with a slight bite to it.
- Use good quality chicken broth: The flavor of the broth will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish. Homemade broth is ideal, but a high-quality store-bought broth works well too.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this recipe, such as chopped carrots, celery, or spinach. Add them along with the onion and garlic.
- Experiment with herbs: Fresh basil, thyme, or oregano can be wonderful additions to this recipe, adding layers of delicious aromas and flavors.
Variations: Make it Your Own
- Lemon Pastina: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a tablespoon of lemon zest for a bright and zesty twist.
- Creamy Pastina: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier version.
- Spicy Pastina: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Chicken Pastina: Add shredded cooked chicken to the soup for a heartier meal, transforming it into a delicious and easy chicken soup variation.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This simple pastina recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a perfect example of how delicious dishes can be created with minimal effort and readily available ingredients. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful bowl of goodness!