Italian Penicillin Soup - Pastina in Brodo (taste good and easy)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Penicillin Soup is warm, gentle, and comforting, making it ideal for cold winter days or whenever you want something simple and nourishing. It uses pantry ingredients, comes together quickly, and has a long tradition as a feel-good meal in Italian households.

Ingredient Highlights

Pastina is a tiny pasta shape that cooks quickly and gives the soup its signature texture. Chicken broth forms the flavorful base, while the egg and Parmesan create a silky, rich finish without needing cream. This combination makes the soup filling yet light.

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Bring the broth to a simmer
Pour the chicken broth into a medium saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Bring the chicken broth to a gentle simmer to create a warm base for the soup.

Step 2: Cook the pastina
Add the pastina to the simmering broth and cook until tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add the pastina and cook until the tiny pasta is tender.

Step 3: Prepare the egg mixture
While the pasta cooks, whisk the egg and Parmesan cheese together in a small bowl until smooth.

Whisk the egg and Parmesan together until smooth before adding to the soup.

Step 4: Add the egg to the soup
Reduce the heat to low. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the soup while stirring constantly to create soft, delicate strands.

Slowly stir in the egg mixture over low heat to create delicate, silky strands.

Step 5: Season and serve
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and finish with parsley or extra Parmesan if desired.

Italian penicillin soup being seasoned served in a bowl

Tips for Best Results

Stir constantly when adding the egg to avoid scrambling. Keep the heat low during this step for the smoothest texture. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth before serving.

Stir continuously while adding the egg to keep the texture smooth and delicate.

Variations and Substitutions

You can add shredded chicken for extra protein or a handful of spinach for added greens. Vegetable broth works well for a lighter or vegetarian version. Some versions include a small pat of butter for extra richness.

Add shredded chicken for extra protein or a handful of spinach for added greens.

Storage and Reheating

This soup is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Add additional broth when reheating, as the pasta will absorb liquid over time.

What to Serve With It

Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or simple crackers for a comforting meal.

Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or simple crackers. It also pairs well with a light green salad.