Feeling a tickle in your throat?
Achy all over?
We’ve all been there – that icky feeling where even the thought of cooking seems like a monumental task.
But fear not, there’s a hero in the pantry waiting to swoop in and save the day: Pastina!
This tiny, star-shaped pasta, often called “Italian Penicillin” for its comforting and potentially healing properties (though it’s not a magic cure!), is the perfect meal for when you’re feeling under the weather.
It’s simple to make, requires minimal effort, and packs a big flavor punch that will soothe your soul (and maybe even shorten the duration of your cold – fingers crossed!).
The Recipe: Easy and Delicious
This recipe is designed to be as fuss-free as possible, perfect for when you’re not feeling your best.
It yields a generous amount, so you can have leftovers for the next day or share with a loved one who might be feeling the same way.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups organic chicken broth (store-bought is fine!)
- 6 cups water
- 3 celery stalks, halved
- 3 carrot stalks, peeled and halved
- 6 garlic cloves, whole (no need to peel!)
- 1 whole yellow onion
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon (optional, adds extra flavor)
- 1 box of Pastina
- Salt, pepper, turmeric, and ginger (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese (for sprinkling)
Steps:
1. Prep the Veggies (Minimal Effort Required)
In a large pot, combine your water and chicken broth.
Toss in the halved celery and carrot stalks, the whole garlic cloves, and the whole yellow onion (no chopping required!).
2. Let it Simmer (Time to Rest)
Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot partially, and let it simmer for 45 minutes.
This allows the vegetables to release their flavor into the broth.
3. Blend for Extra Smoothness (Optional)
After 45 minutes, remove the vegetables from the broth using a slotted spoon.
Place them in a blender along with 2 ladles of broth and the chicken bouillon (if using).
Blend until smooth and creamy. Add the blended mixture back into the pot of broth.
4. Spice it Up (to Your Liking)
Now comes the fun part – adding some flavor! Season the broth with salt, pepper, turmeric, and ginger to taste.
These spices not only add warmth but also have potential health benefits – turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while ginger can help soothe a sore throat.
5. Cook the Pastina (Separately)
While the broth simmers, cook your pastina according to the package instructions.
6. The Grand Finale (Soup’s On!)
Once the pastina is cooked, ladle the broth into bowls. Top with the cooked pastina and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
7. Mangia, Mangia! (Eat and Feel Better)
Now comes the best part – enjoy your delicious and comforting Pastina soup! It’s warm, flavorful, and easy to digest, making it the perfect meal when you’re feeling under the weather.
Tips:
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. If you’re feeling congested, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick!
- If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth works just fine.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for a few days.
- You can add other ingredients to this recipe for extra protein or vegetables. Cooked chicken, chopped spinach, or frozen peas would all be delicious additions.
So next time you’re feeling under the weather, don’t reach for the greasy takeout. Whip up a batch of this “Italian Penicillin” instead. It’s easy to make, comforting to eat, and might just help you feel better on the road to recovery.