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a wooden spoon in a white bowl filled with Nonna's Italian pastina topped with fresh herbs, parmesan cheese, and a pat of melting butter
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4.72 from 56 votes

Nonna's Pastina Recipe

Nonna's classic pastina recipe with egg is the Italian equivalent of chicken soup. It's comforting, yummy, and easy to digest- perfect to get you back on your feet when you are sick!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Pasta
Cuisine: American, Italian
Servings: 4
Calories: 261kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup pastina
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 2 1/2 tbsp butter
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese shredded, shaved, or grated
  • salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Add the water to a pot, and set over high heat. Add salt to the water.
  • Once the water's boiling, add the pastina to the pot and stir.
  • Cook, stirring often, until most of the water's been absorbed- about 3-4 minutes.
  • Remove the pot from heat, and whisk in the beaten egg. Whisk immediately and quickly so the egg incorporates and doesn't cook right away.
  • Add the butter & cheese to the pot, stirring until evenly incorporated.
  • Season with salt & pepper, to taste.
  • Spoon the pastina into bowls, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • You can sub extra virgin olive oil for the butter, if preferred.
  • The pastina will continue to absorb liquid the longer it sits so don't make it ahead of time!
  • It easily doubles or triples if you are feeding a larger crowd.
  • This isn't a dish that can cook, or sit, unattended. When it says whisk or stir, make sure to do so!

Nutrition

Calories: 261kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 65mg | Sodium: 217mg | Potassium: 25mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 343IU | Calcium: 114mg | Iron: 2mg