Have you ever craved a bowl of something that feels like a hug? Tomato pastina soup is exactly that—a simple, soul-soothing dish that brings warmth and nostalgia with every spoonful. Whether it reminds you of grandma’s kitchen or you’re discovering it for the first time, this easy homemade soup delivers comfort in the coziest way.
Made with tiny pastina pasta and a rich tomato broth, it’s a one-pot meal perfect for chilly nights, quick lunches, or anytime you need a little pick-me-up. I love how it transforms simple pantry ingredients into a nourishing, family-friendly dinner that’s as satisfying as it is effortless.
Let’s dive into the heart of this Italian comfort food classic—because sometimes, the simplest recipes are the ones we cherish most.
Table of Contents
Key Benefits
Tomato pastina soup isn’t just another quick dinner idea—it’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth and fills your kitchen with the aroma of home. Whether you’re short on time or just craving something simple and satisfying, this comforting dish has your back. Here’s why it’s worth adding to your regular recipe lineup:
- Ready in under 30 minutes
This is a true weeknight hero. With minimal prep and fast cooking time, it’s ideal for busy schedules or last-minute meals. - One-pot convenience
Fewer dishes mean more time to relax. Everything comes together in a single pot—easy cleanup, big flavor. - Pantry-friendly ingredients
No fancy ingredients here. All you need are basic staples like pasta, tomato sauce or broth, garlic, and olive oil—making it budget-friendly and always accessible. - Comfort in every spoonful
There’s something deeply soothing about the combination of tender pastina and rich tomato broth. It’s perfect for cozy nights, sick days, or just when you need a little extra comfort. - Kid-approved and family-friendly
The soft texture and gentle flavors make it a hit with little ones and picky eaters alike. Plus, it’s easy to customize with add-ins like veggies, shredded chicken, or grated cheese. - Great for meal prep
Make a big batch and store it for the week. It reheats beautifully and makes a warm, nourishing lunch in minutes. - A nostalgic classic with a twist
While rooted in traditional Italian cooking, this version allows room for creativity—think fresh herbs, a swirl of cream, or even a spicy kick if you’re feeling bold.
Tomato pastina soup brings together the best of all worlds: simplicity, heart, and flavor. It’s a dish you’ll reach for again and again—not just because it’s easy, but because it feels like home.
Ingredients
One of the best things about tomato pastina soup is how effortlessly it comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients. Most of these are pantry staples, which means you can whip up a bowl of cozy comfort without a special trip to the store.
Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds richness and helps develop flavor right from the start.
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced – A savory base that adds depth and sweetness as it cooks.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For that classic, aromatic Italian flavor.
- 4 cups vegetable broth – A flavorful liquid base; you can use chicken broth if you prefer.
- 1 ½ cups tomato puree or crushed tomatoes – Provides that vibrant, hearty tomato flavor.
- ¾ cup pastina pasta – Tiny pasta like acini di pepe, stelline, or ditalini works best.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Balances and brightens the overall flavor.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional) – A sprinkle of herbs at the end adds freshness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving) – Optional, but adds a lovely savory finish.
Ingredient Notes & Tips:
- Pasta choices: If you don’t have pastina on hand, try other small pasta varieties like orzo or couscous.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a pat of butter at the end for extra richness.
- Boost the nutrition: Toss in chopped spinach, peas, or white beans to make it heartier without extra fuss.
Every ingredient in this recipe serves a purpose—simple, comforting, and full of flavor. With just a handful of staples, you’re well on your way to a bowl of soup that feels like home.
How To Make Tomato Pastina Soup
Making tomato pastina soup is simple and deeply satisfying. Here’s how to bring it all together:
1. Sauté your aromatics
Begin by warming olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and garlic, then sauté until fragrant and translucent. This forms the flavorful base for your soup.
2. Add the tomato base
Stir in tomato paste and cook for a minute to deepen its flavor. Then pour in crushed tomatoes and stir well, letting everything simmer together for a few minutes to build richness.
3. Pour in the broth
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and slowly bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This step transforms your tomato base into a hearty, comforting soup.
4. Cook the pastina
Once the soup is bubbling, stir in the pastina. Lower the heat to a simmer and let the pasta cook until tender, usually around 6–8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Season to taste
Add salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs to suit your preferences. If you like a hint of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes works beautifully.
6. Finish with a touch of comfort
Stir in a pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness. You can also toss in a handful of grated Parmesan for a creamy finish.
7. Serve warm
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, or a sprinkle of cracked pepper. Serve immediately for maximum coziness.
This simple method transforms pantry staples into a soul-soothing bowl of comfort.
Pro Tips and Variations
Tomato pastina soup is delicious just as it is, but if you’re feeling a bit adventurous or want to make it your own, here are some pro tips and creative variations to elevate your meal.
Pro Tips:
- Perfect your pasta-to-broth ratio: Pastina absorbs liquid quickly, so if you like a soupy consistency, make sure to add a little extra broth. For a thicker soup, reduce the liquid slightly.
- Slowly sauté the onions and garlic: Take your time to cook the onions until they’re golden brown. This caramelization deepens the flavor of the soup.
- Infuse more flavor with herbs: While fresh basil or parsley are great options for garnish, you can add a sprig of rosemary or a bay leaf to the soup as it simmers for extra depth.
- Make it creamy: If you prefer a richer soup, stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of butter once the pasta is cooked.
- Season gradually: Taste your soup as you go. Adding salt and pepper at the end ensures the flavors come together perfectly, without over-seasoning at the start.
Variations:
- Add veggies: For a heartier soup, throw in some spinach, kale, or carrots during the last few minutes of cooking. Not only does this add color and nutrition, but it makes the soup feel even more wholesome.
- Boost the protein: Want to turn this into a more filling meal? Add cooked chicken, sausage, or white beans. These options complement the tomato base and make the soup more substantial.
- Spicy twist: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic, or stir in a diced jalapeño with the tomatoes.
- Cheese lovers’ dream: While Parmesan is the classic choice, why not experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a melty finish or pecorino Romano for a saltier punch?
These tips and variations will help you customize your tomato pastina soup to fit your tastes. Don’t be afraid to get creative—this dish is all about comfort and flexibility.
Serving Suggestions
Tomato pastina soup is a comforting dish on its own, but it can also be paired with a variety of sides and accompaniments to make your meal feel extra special. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your soup experience.
1. Crusty Bread
Nothing beats dipping warm, crispy bread into a bowl of tomato soup. A crusty baguette, sourdough, or garlic bread are excellent choices. You can even serve it with breadsticks for a fun, snackable side.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
For the ultimate comfort food combo, serve your tomato pastina soup with a grilled cheese sandwich. The gooey, melted cheese and crispy bread pair perfectly with the rich, tomato-based soup. You can switch things up by adding a little pesto or bacon for extra flavor.
3. Side Salad
A fresh, light side salad is a great balance to the rich flavors of the soup. Try a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for an Italian twist.
4. Cheese Toppings
For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or a bit of mozzarella on top of your soup just before serving. You can even melt the cheese under a broiler for a fun, bubbly finish.
5. Herbed Croutons
Crispy, crunchy croutons make a delightful contrast to the soft texture of the soup. You can easily make your own by cubing some stale bread, tossing it with olive oil and herbs, and toasting it in the oven.
These simple and delicious serving ideas will complement your tomato pastina soup, turning a comforting bowl into a full, satisfying meal. Enjoy it with family and friends for a warm and inviting dining experience!
Conclusion
Tomato pastina soup is the perfect balance of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. Its warmth and rich taste make it a beloved dish for any occasion, whether you’re seeking a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a heartwarming lunch. This recipe is easy to customize, and with the addition of optional herbs, vegetables, or proteins, it can be adapted to suit any taste. Whether enjoyed solo or paired with your favorite sides, this soup offers endless possibilities for satisfying your cravings.
By following the easy steps and incorporating the pro tips and variations, you’ll master the art of making a delicious, homemade tomato pastina soup that everyone will love. Don’t forget, the best part of cooking is making it your own—so feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients that reflect your unique tastes.
We hope this tomato pastina soup becomes a staple in your kitchen. Simple, hearty, and full of flavor, it’s truly a dish that brings people together. Happy cooking, and enjoy every comforting spoonful!
_______________
Tomato Pastina Soup
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds richness and helps develop flavor right from the start.
- 1 small yellow onion finely diced – A savory base that adds depth and sweetness as it cooks.
- 2 cloves garlic minced – For that classic, aromatic Italian flavor.
- 4 cups vegetable broth – A flavorful liquid base; you can use chicken broth if you prefer.
- 1 ½ cups tomato puree or crushed tomatoes – Provides that vibrant hearty tomato flavor.
- ¾ cup pastina pasta – Tiny pasta like acini di pepe stelline, or ditalini works best.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – Balances and brightens the overall flavor.
- Fresh basil or parsley optional – A sprinkle of herbs at the end adds freshness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving – Optional, but adds a lovely savory finish.
Ingredient Notes & Tips:
- Pasta choices: If you don’t have pastina on hand try other small pasta varieties like orzo or couscous.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a pat of butter at the end for extra richness.
- Boost the nutrition: Toss in chopped spinach peas, or white beans to make it heartier without extra fuss.
- Every ingredient in this recipe serves a purpose—simple comforting, and full of flavor. With just a handful of staples, you’re well on your way to a bowl of soup that feels like home.
Instructions
Sauté your aromatics
- Begin by warming olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and garlic, then sauté until fragrant and translucent. This forms the flavorful base for your soup.
Add the tomato base
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for a minute to deepen its flavor. Then pour in crushed tomatoes and stir well, letting everything simmer together for a few minutes to build richness.
Pour in the broth
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and slowly bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This step transforms your tomato base into a hearty, comforting soup.
Cook the pastina
- Once the soup is bubbling, stir in the pastina. Lower the heat to a simmer and let the pasta cook until tender, usually around 6–8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Season to taste
- Add salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs to suit your preferences. If you like a hint of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes works beautifully.
Finish with a touch of comfort
- Stir in a pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness. You can also toss in a handful of grated Parmesan for a creamy finish.
Serve warm
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, or a sprinkle of cracked pepper. Serve immediately for maximum coziness.
Notes
• Calories: 220
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 620mg
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 6g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta in tomato pastina soup?
Absolutely. While pastina adds that classic texture, other small shapes like orzo, ditalini, or even broken angel hair can work well in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly so the pasta stays tender, not mushy.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, tomato pastina soup is perfect for meal prep. Make the base ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best texture, cook the pastina separately and add it just before serving to avoid it absorbing too much liquid.
3. Is this soup freezer-friendly?
It can be! However, it’s best to freeze the tomato broth without the pasta. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat the broth and cook a fresh batch of pastina to stir in just before serving.
4. How can I make it more filling?
To bulk up the soup, add shredded rotisserie chicken, white beans, or even sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini. These additions blend seamlessly and make it a more satisfying meal.
5. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Definitely. High-quality canned crushed tomatoes or San Marzano tomatoes offer rich flavor and convenience. They’re especially great during colder months when fresh tomatoes aren’t in season.
6. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The mild, comforting flavor and tiny pasta make it a hit with kids. You can even blend the broth for an ultra-smooth version if your little ones prefer it that way.
7. I make it dairy-free or vegan?
Easily. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and skip the optional cheese topping or replace it with a vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for that savory finish.