- Total Time: 15-17 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
Tomato Pastina Recipe:
What Is Tomato Pastina?
Tomato pastina is an Italian dish with small pasta cooked in rich tomato broth. It is a childhood favorite in many Italian homes, known for its simple ingredients and comforting taste. This dish is quick to make and perfect for all skill levels in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Comfort Dish?
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Fast and easy – Ready in under 20 minutes.
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Warm and soothing – Great for any season.
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Few ingredients – Uses basic pantry staples.
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Versatile – Can be adjusted with different flavors and add-ins.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients:
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1 cup pastina pasta (or any small pasta)
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2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
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1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
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1 clove garlic (minced)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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½ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
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Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Optional Additions for Variations:
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Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
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Butter for extra creaminess.
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Shredded cheese for more richness.
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A soft-boiled egg for extra protein.
Instructions
How to Prepare Tomato Pastina?
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Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
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Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Stir in the crushed tomatoes and broth, then season with salt and pepper.
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Bring to a gentle simmer.
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Add pastina and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally.
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Once the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens, remove from heat.
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Serve warm with grated Parmesan and fresh basil.
Our Tip for Perfect Pastina:
For a creamier dish, stir in a little butter or a splash of milk before serving. This enhances texture and flavor.
Notes
Substitutions and Variations:
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Use fresh diced tomatoes instead of canned for a lighter taste.
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Swap vegetable broth for chicken broth for a richer flavor.
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Add spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
How to Make QUICK and EASY Pastina?
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Use preheated broth to speed up cooking.
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Cook the pastina separately and mix it with the sauce at the end.
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Make a double batch and store leftovers for quick meals.
Storing and Serving:
How to Store Leftover Tomato Pastina?
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheat with extra broth or water to prevent drying.
Best Ways to Serve Tomato Pastina:
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Enjoy as a light meal with crusty bread.
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Pair with a side salad for a balanced dish.
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Add a poached egg on top for extra protein.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~1.5 cups
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg (varies based on broth used)
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Why This Tomato Pastina Recipe is a Healthy and Comforting Choice
This tomato pastina recipe is a nourishing, simple dish that brings together fresh ingredients for a meal that’s both comforting and wholesome. Here’s why it’s worth preparing at home:
- Rich in Antioxidants
Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants like lycopene, which help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation. They’re also a great source of vitamin C, boosting your immune system. - Source of Complex Carbohydrates
Pastina provides energy through complex carbohydrates, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels. For an even healthier option, you can use whole-grain pastina to increase fiber and nutrients. - Supports Heart Health
Olive oil in this recipe offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that help reduce bad cholesterol and promote cardiovascular health. - Light and Easy to Digest
With its simple ingredients, this dish is gentle on the digestive system, making it an excellent option for a light meal or when you need something soothing. - No Additives or Preservatives
By making tomato pastina at home, you avoid the preservatives and excess sodium found in store-bought versions, ensuring a fresh and healthy meal. - Budget-Friendly and Customizable
This recipe is affordable and easy to customize by adding herbs, vegetables, or a sprinkle of cheese to suit your taste and nutritional needs.
Tomato pastina is a quick, healthy meal that’s perfect for all ages. Preparing it at home means you enjoy a comforting dish full of fresh, wholesome flavors without sacrificing nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Tomato Pastina Vegan?
Yes, it’s easy to make tomato pastina vegan! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based base. Skip the Parmesan cheese, or replace it with a vegan cheese substitute or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. This way, you’ll maintain the creamy, comforting texture of pastina while keeping it vegan-friendly. Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding herbs or extra olive oil for richness.
What Pasta Shapes Work Best for Pastina?
The best pasta shapes for pastina are tiny varieties like stelline (little stars), acini di pepe, or orzo. These small shapes cook quickly and create the soft, comforting texture typical of pastina. If you don’t have these specific shapes, any small pasta such as ditalini or broken spaghetti will work in a pinch. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to avoid overcooking and keep the texture just right.
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes are a great substitute for canned! Chop and simmer fresh tomatoes with broth or water until they break down into a sauce-like consistency. For a smoother texture, remove the skins or blend the cooked tomatoes. Depending on the ripeness of your tomatoes, you may need to add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity. Fresh tomatoes give the dish a lighter, fresher flavor perfect for summer.
