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Creamy Italian Pastina Recipe

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  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A comforting and creamy Italian pastina recipe, perfect as a warm and cozy meal or side dish. This dish is beloved for its simplicity, rich flavor, and smooth texture.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup pastina (small star-shaped pasta)
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg (optional, for creaminess)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth or water to a boil.
  2. Add the pastina and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the pasta is tender, about 6-7 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted.
  4. If using, beat the egg in a separate bowl and quickly stir it into the hot pastina to cook through, stirring constantly.
  5. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until creamy and fully combined.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  7. Serve immediately for the best creamy texture.

Notes

  • You can substitute vegetable broth to make it vegetarian.
  • Adding a splash of milk or cream enhances the richness.
  • Omit the egg for a simpler version.
  • Perfect for children or as a comforting meal when unwell.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg