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Classic Italian Pastina Soup

Classic Italian Pastina Soup Recipe for Comforting Flavor finished dish

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Classic Italian Pastina Soup is a comforting and hearty dish made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and tiny pasta. This flavorful soup is perfect for chilly days and is sure to warm your soul. It’s a family favorite that combines wholesome ingredients for a nourishing meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (3–4 lbs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 10–12 cups water
  • 3 celery stalks, divided
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, divided
  • 3 large carrots, peeled, divided
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt, divided
  • 1 tablespoon reduced sodium chicken base
  • 2 onions, peeled, divided
  • 1 cup pastina or tiny pasta
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broth: Place the whole chicken in a large pot and cover with water. Roughly chop 2 celery stalks, 1 onion, and 2 carrots. Add to the pot with the chicken. Season with 1 tablespoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, covered, for 1 hour.
  2. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Shred the meat once cooled. Strain the stock to remove solids and measure out 12 cups of liquid.
  3. Cook the Vegetables: Finely chop the remaining celery, onion, and carrot. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Sauté the chopped vegetables with the remaining salt, pepper, and minced garlic until tender.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Add the reserved stock and chicken base to the pot with vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. Add Pasta: Increase heat to high and add the pastina. Cook for 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
  6. Finish the Soup: Reduce heat, add the shredded chicken, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Stir in chopped parsley, if using.
  7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

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