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why make this recipe
Giada De Laurentiis’s Pastina Soup is a comforting dish that warms the soul. It is easy to make and perfect for those chilly days or when someone feels under the weather. The small pasta shapes and fresh ingredients create a hearty and delightful meal that is also nutritious. Plus, it brings a taste of Italian comfort food to your table.
how to make Giada De Laurentiis Pastina Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, peeled and finely chopped
- 2 shallots, minced
- 3 fresh thyme sprigs
- ¾ tsp kosher salt
- 1 (2-inch) piece of Parmesan rind
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1¼ cups little star pasta (stelline)
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp grated lemon zest (optional)
Directions:
- Heat the Oil: In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped celery, carrot, and minced shallots. Cook, stirring often, until the vegetables are soft, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Simmer the Broth: Add the thyme sprigs, ¾ tsp of kosher salt, the Parmesan rind, 4 cups of chicken broth, and 1 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to let the flavors blend together.
- Add the Pasta: Pour in 1¼ cups of little star pasta and stir well with a wooden spoon to prevent it from sticking. Return to a simmer and continue to cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the pasta is tender and the soup has slightly thickened.
- Remove the Thyme and Rind: Carefully take out the thyme sprigs and Parmesan rind. Stir in the thawed peas and let them warm through for about 1 minute.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of lemon zest, if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
how to serve Giada De Laurentiis Pastina Soup
Serve the Pastina Soup hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A sprinkle of lemon zest on top adds a nice touch of brightness. This soup pairs nicely with crusty bread for dipping, making it a complete meal.
how to store Giada De Laurentiis Pastina Soup
To store this soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. In that case, leave out the pasta and add it fresh when reheating the soup.
tips to make Giada De Laurentiis Pastina Soup
- If you prefer a heartier soup, add diced chicken or other vegetables such as spinach or kale.
- For vegetarian options, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Be sure to check the pasta for doneness as cooking times can vary based on the size and shape.
variation
You can try this soup with different types of small pasta, such as orzo or ditalini. Also, feel free to add different herbs like parsley or basil to enhance the flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use different vegetables in this soup?
A: Yes, you can customize the soup with vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or corn according to your preference.
Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. Just remember to add the pasta when you’re ready to serve, as it may become mushy if stored in the soup.
Q: How long can I freeze the leftover soup?
A: The soup can be frozen for about 2 to 3 months. Be sure to store it in an airtight container.