Italian Grandma Makes Pastina Soup

chicken broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water + bouillon cubes

Vegetable broth is lower in calories and suitable for vegetarians.

pastina

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: small pasta shapes

Quinoa is a healthier grain option, while small pasta is often more affordable.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor with fewer calories.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil offers health benefits while being versatile.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped celery and carrots; sauté until softened.

Stir in chopped plum tomato and cook briefly.

Pour in water or chicken stock and bring to a boil.

Add pastina and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes.

Season with salt to taste.

In a separate bowl, beat the extra large egg and stir it into the soup before serving.

Serve hot, garnished with grated Pecorino Romano cheese.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens