Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pastina Recipe

Introduction

Pastina is a comforting and simple small pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick meal or a cozy snack. Cooked in flavorful broth and finished with garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan, it offers a warm, satisfying taste with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pastina (small pasta)
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Step 2: Add the pastina to the pot and stir gently. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the pasta cook for about 10 minutes, or until tender.
3. Step 3: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
4. Step 4: Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden.
5. Step 5: Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
6. Step 6: Once the pastina is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and add the garlic and olive oil mixture, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
7. Step 7: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir again.
8. Step 8: If desired, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top of the pastina.
9. Step 9: Serve the pastina hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a flavor boost.
• Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
• To add more protein, stir in cooked shredded chicken or cooked beans just before serving.

Storage

Store leftover pastina in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the pasta if needed, as it tends to thicken upon cooling.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, but pastina is very small and cooks quickly. Larger pastas may need longer cooking times and different broth ratios.

Is pastina gluten-free?

Traditional pastina is made from wheat and contains gluten. Look for gluten-free small pasta alternatives if you need a gluten-free dish.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pastina Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 127 reviews

A simple and comforting Italian dish featuring tiny pasta called pastina, cooked tenderly in flavorful chicken or vegetable broth, enhanced with garlic-infused olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and optional fresh parsley. Perfect as a quick meal or soothing comfort food.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 17 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pastina and Broth

• 1 cup pastina (small pasta)
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Seasoning and Garnish

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Boil the Broth: In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Pastina: Add the pastina to the boiling broth and stir gently to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the pasta cook for about 10 minutes, or until tender but not mushy.
3. Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden, then remove from heat.
4. Combine Ingredients: Once the pastina is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Add the garlic and olive oil mixture along with salt and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all flavors.
5. Add Cheese and Garnish: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated. If desired, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish.
6. Serve: Serve the pastina hot as a light meal or comforting side dish. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

• Use vegetable broth to keep the dish vegetarian.
• For a creamier texture, stir in a little butter or cream at the end.
• Pastina cooks quickly, so watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
• Freshly grated Parmesan offers better melting and richer flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
• Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a different flavor twist.

Keywords: pastina, small pasta, Italian pasta soup, quick pasta recipe, garlic pasta, Parmesan pasta, comfort food, easy Italian meal