As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of pasta to cozy up with. And when it comes to classic Italian comfort food, pastina takes the cake. This tiny, adorable pasta shape is often overlooked in favor of its more showy counterparts, but trust us – it’s time to give pastina the love it deserves.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 deliciously simple pastina recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From creamy soups to cheesy bakes and saucy sauces, we’ve got you covered with a range of comforting options to suit every taste. So grab your apron, get ready to dig in, and let’s start our culinary journey through the world of pastina!
Classic Pastina with Butter and Parmesan
This comforting Italian dish is a staple of childhood memories and effortless entertaining. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a warm, satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
3. Add the cooked pastina to the skillet and toss with the melted butter until well coated.
4. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the pasta and toss to combine.
5. If the mixture seems dry, add a little reserved pasta cooking water to achieve the desired consistency.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Pastina Soup with Vegetables
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and flavorful soup made with pastina, a type of Italian pasta, and a variety of vegetables. This creamy soup is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pastina
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pastina according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked pastina and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pastina with Tomato Sauce and Fresh Basil
Pastina, a traditional Italian dish, is often served as a comforting side or light meal. This recipe combines tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and fragrant fresh basil for a simple yet satisfying delight.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 2 cups (475ml) homemade or store-bought tomato sauce
– 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pastina according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add tomato sauce and stir to combine.
3. Add cooked pastina to the skillet, tossing to coat with tomato sauce. If necessary, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Pastina Bake with Mozzarella
Get ready to satisfy your comfort food cravings with this simple and satisfying Cheesy Pastina Bake with Mozzarella. A creative twist on traditional pasta bakes, this recipe combines al dente pastina with a rich, cheesy sauce and melted mozzarella for an unbeatable flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pastina
– 2 cups mixed cheeses (cheddar, parmesan, mozzarella)
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pastina according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, combine butter, mixed cheeses, and heavy cream. Stir over low heat until cheese is melted and smooth.
4. Add cooked pastina to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
5. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pastina with Garlic and Olive Oil
Pastina is a classic Italian dish that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe adds a flavorful twist by combining the small pasta shapes with aromatic garlic and olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pastina
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Drain the cooked pastina and add it to the garlic-infused oil. Toss the pasta to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
4. Season with salt to taste. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina and Chicken Noodle Soup
Soothe your soul with this comforting and creamy soup, packed with chicken, noodles, and a hint of Italian flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, potatoes)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces pastina (Italian egg noodles)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, chicken broth, and cooked chicken back into the pot.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the veggies are tender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and pastina noodles.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the noodles are al dente.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pastina with Spinach and Ricotta
A comforting Italian-inspired dish that combines tender pasta, wilted spinach, and a rich ricotta sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the saucepan and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the ricotta cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked pastina, reserved pasta water, and spinach-ricotta mixture. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh spinach leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pastina with Lemon and Herbs
This classic Italian recipe combines tender pastina (small pasta) with a bright and citrusy lemon sauce, infused with fresh herbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pastina
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a simmer in a large saucepan.
2. Add the pastina and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine the cooked pastina with the lemon sauce and toss to coat, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina with Mushrooms and Thyme
This hearty pasta dish is a staple of Italian cuisine, perfect for a cozy evening meal. The combination of tender pastina, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic thyme creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add thyme sprigs and white wine (if using) to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pastina with mushroom mixture, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta cooking liquid to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pastina with Peas and Carrots
This classic Italian pasta dish is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight meal. With its creamy sauce, tender pasta, and sweetness from the peas and carrots, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil, then add the pastina. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the frozen peas and carrots and cook until thawed and tender.
3. Combine the cooked pasta and pea mixture in a large serving dish.
4. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina with Sautéed Garlic and Kale
A hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the comforting goodness of pasta with the pungency of garlic and the earthy sweetness of kale.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. Pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
3. Add the chopped kale to the skillet with the garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3-4 minutes or until the kale has wilted and reached your desired level of doneness.
4. Add the cooked Pastina to the skillet with the garlic and kale. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if the mixture seems dry.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional garlic and kale if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pastina with Roasted Tomatoes and Feta
A Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish that combines the creaminess of roasted tomatoes and feta cheese with the simplicity of homemade pastina.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon olive oil
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, egg, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then wrap in plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.
4. Roll out the pasta to a thin sheet. Cut into small squares (pastina).
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced tomatoes and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
6. Cook pastina according to package instructions. Drain and add to skillet with roasted tomatoes.
7. Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pastina with Ground Turkey and Marinara
A hearty and comforting Italian-inspired dish that combines ground turkey with pasta, marinara sauce, and a hint of cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 8 oz. Pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. In a large serving dish, combine the cooked Pastina, turkey-marinara mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss until well coated.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pastina with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
This comforting Italian-inspired dish combines tender pastina pasta with a rich pesto sauce, sweet cherry tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pastina pasta
– 1/4 cup freshly made or store-bought pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pastina pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine the pesto, cherry tomatoes, and cooked pasta. Toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
3. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until melted and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina with Shrimp and Lemon Butter Sauce
Pastina, a classic Italian dish, gets a boost of flavor and freshness from succulent shrimp and a zesty lemon butter sauce. This comforting pasta recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Leave the garlic butter sauce in the pan.
5. Add lemon juice, white wine (if using), salt, and pepper to the garlic butter sauce. Stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked pastina, shrimp, and lemon butter sauce. Toss until well coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina with Zucchini and Parmesan
This classic pasta dish is a staple of Italian cuisine, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal any time of the year. By adding zucchini and Parmesan cheese, we give it a fresh twist that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the cooked pastina to the skillet with the zucchini mixture. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina with Broccoli and Cheddar
This comforting pasta dish combines the simplicity of pastina with the richness of cheddar cheese, all wrapped up with a nutritious serving of broccoli. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pastina
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
3. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add the heavy cream and stir until combined.
4. Combine the cooked pastina with the broccoli-cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina with Sausage and Peppers
This classic Italian recipe combines tender sausage, sweet bell peppers, and small pasta shapes (pastina) in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce. A comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 8 ounces pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pastina according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add onion and garlic to skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers to skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, cooked sausage, and pastina to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Pastina with Butternut Squash and Sage
Warm up with this comforting fall-inspired pasta dish, where sweet butternut squash meets the earthy flavor of sage.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 1 medium butternut squash, cooked and mashed
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 4 sage leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sage leaves and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the mashed butternut squash to the skillet and stir to combine with the sage. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the squash is heated through.
4. Add the cooked pastina to the skillet, tossing to coat with the squash and sage mixture.
5. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina with Caramelized Onions and Gruyère
This comforting pasta dish combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the nutty flavor of Gruyère cheese, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add the olive oil, heavy cream, and cooked pastina to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Stir to combine, adding some reserved pasta cooking water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
4. Stir in the grated Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the comfort of pastina with these 20 deliciously simple recipes. From classic combinations like butter and Parmesan to creamy soups and cheesy bakes, there’s something for everyone. Try adding garlic and olive oil for a Mediterranean twist or sautéed garlic and kale for a hearty, veggie-packed meal. For a seafood option, look no further than shrimp with lemon butter sauce. With these versatile recipes, you’ll be enjoying the comforting goodness of pastina in no time.
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