Cozy nights are the perfect excuse to indulge in a warm, comforting bowl of pasta. And what better way to do so than with pastina, those adorable little shapes that can be dressed up or down to suit any taste? From classic combinations to creative twists, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering pastina recipes to keep your taste buds satisfied and your belly full.
Whether you’re in the mood for a rich and creamy sauce or something light and zesty, our list has got you covered. From simple yet satisfying bowls of buttery goodness to more elaborate dishes featuring grilled shrimp, roasted vegetables, and even meatballs, there’s something for everyone. So go ahead, grab a fork, and get ready to cozy up with these delicious pastina recipes!
Classic Pastina with Butter and Parmesan
A comforting and simple Italian dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side to your favorite pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pastina (Italian small pasta)
– 4 tbsp (55g) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp (30g) of butter over medium heat.
3. Add the cooked pastina to the skillet and toss with the melted butter until well coated.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until well combined.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. If the pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water (1-2 tbsp) to loosen the mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina Soup with Chicken and Vegetables
This comforting soup is a hearty, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner. With pasta, chicken, and vegetables in a rich and creamy broth, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add broth, pastina, and salt; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until pasta is cooked.
6. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half; season with pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Pastina with Spinach and Garlic
This hearty pasta dish is a twist on the classic pastina recipe, adding the nutritional benefits of spinach and the pungency of garlic. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 2 cups (475ml) chicken broth
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic, and spinach. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add cooked pastina to the skillet, stirring to combine. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pastina Casserole with Mozzarella and Tomatoes
This classic casserole combines the comfort of pasta, savory tomato sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce and cooked pasta; stir well.
4. In a separate bowl, mix shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped basil.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Add the pasta mixture, followed by the cheese and tomato mixture (cherry tomatoes and their juices).
6. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Pastina with Grilled Shrimp
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the tender sweetness of grilled shrimp with the tangy zest of lemon and herbs. This 20-minute recipe is perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pastina (small pasta)
– 1 cup mixed fresh herbs (parsley, basil, dill)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, combine olive oil, mixed herbs, and lemon juice. Bring to simmer over medium heat.
4. Add cooked pastina to the skillet and toss to coat with herb mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve grilled shrimp on top of pastina, garnished with additional herbs if desired. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese for added flavor (optional).
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pastina Risotto with Mushrooms and Thyme
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish, this Pastina Risotto is perfect for a cozy evening meal. The addition of sautéed mushrooms and thyme adds an earthy depth to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (e.g. cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring broth to a simmer in a separate pot.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add mushrooms and thyme; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Add pastina, stirring to combine with mushroom mixture.
5. If using wine, add it and stir until absorbed.
6. Gradually add warmed broth, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to be absorbed before adding the next.
7. Remove from heat; stir in butter and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pastina with Roasted Garlic and Olive Oil
This classic Italian recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal. By combining tender pastina (small pasta) with the rich flavors of roasted garlic and olive oil, you’ll create a comforting and flavorful bowl that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pastina
– 3-4 cloves of garlic
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off each garlic clove, place them on a piece of aluminum foil, and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Roast the garlic in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and mashed.
4. Cook the pastina according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pastina, roasted garlic, and remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Spicy Pastina with Sausage and Peppers
This hearty pasta dish combines spicy sausage, sweet peppers, and chewy pastina for a comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With minimal prep time and quick cooking, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pastina
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon hot pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pastina according to package instructions.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage; cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in hot pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pastina, sausage mixture, and any accumulated juices from the pasta bowl. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina Salad with Cucumbers and Feta
This Italian-inspired salad is a perfect combination of creamy feta, crunchy cucumbers, and chewy pastina. It’s an easy-to-make, flavorful side dish or light lunch that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pastina (small pasta)
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked pastina, sliced cucumbers, and crumbled feta.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pastina with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
This classic Italian dish is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, featuring tender pasta, vibrant pesto, and sweet cherry tomatoes. It’s an easy and quick recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Stir in pesto and reserved pasta cooking water. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked pastina to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Pastina Bites with Marinara Dip
Bring a taste of Italy to your next gathering with these bite-sized cheesy pastina treats, served with a rich and tangy marinara dip. Perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pasta (any shape)
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Marinara Dip ingredients:
+ 1 cup marinara sauce
+ 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cooked pasta, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Form into bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. While the pastina bites are baking, mix marinara sauce with softened cream cheese in a small bowl.
6. Serve warm pastina bites with marinara dip for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pastina with Caramelized Onions and Sage
This classic Italian dish is a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings. Tender pastina pasta pairs perfectly with sweet caramelized onions and the earthy flavor of sage.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pastina pasta
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pastina pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Add minced garlic and chopped sage to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Combine cooked pasta, caramelized onion mixture, Parmesan cheese, and chicken broth in a large serving bowl. Toss until well coated, adding reserved pasta cooking water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pastina Stir-Fry with Broccoli and Soy Sauce
Pastina is a versatile pasta shape that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of broccoli and soy sauce. This simple stir-fry recipe is ready in under 20 minutes, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pastina
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, sesame seeds, or chopped green onions for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. Add the cooked pastina, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes, combining all ingredients.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with optional flavorings if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins
This classic Italian dessert is a soothing treat on a chilly day, perfect for a comforting snack or dessert. Soft pastina (small pasta shapes) are cooked in sweetened milk, flavored with cinnamon and raisins, then chilled to set.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pastina
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine pastina and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender (about 8 minutes).
2. Add sugar, cinnamon, and raisins to the saucepan. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
4. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or individual cups. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it onto the surface of the pudding.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to chill and set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional raisins if desired.
Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Pastina with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil
This comforting Italian-inspired dish is a perfect blend of creamy pasta, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant basil. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pastina pasta
– 2 cups (475ml) vegetable broth
– 1 cup (115g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup (30g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup or 15g)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pastina pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine vegetable broth, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and chopped basil. Stir over low heat until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add cooked pastina pasta to the saucepan and toss to coat with the creamy tomato sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pastina Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the comfort of pastina with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked pastina (Italian pasta)
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked pastina, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the pasta mixture, filling to the top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pastina with Roasted Butternut Squash
This autumnal twist on the classic Italian pasta dish is a perfect comfort food for chilly days. The sweetness of roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with the delicate flavor of pastina, making this recipe a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook pastina according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine roasted butternut squash and garlic. Sauté over medium heat for 5 minutes or until the squash is smooth and fragrant.
4. Add cooked pastina to the saucepan and toss with the squash mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Pastina and Meatball Skillet Dinner
This comforting skillet dinner combines tender meatballs with small pasta shapes and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
– 8 ounces pastina (small pasta shapes)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the meatballs over medium-high heat until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the pastina and stir to combine.
6. Cover the skillet and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pastina with Lemon Zest and Fresh Herbs
This classic Italian dish is elevated by the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon zest and the freshness of herbs. A comforting and light meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pastina (small pasta shapes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 teaspoons zest and 1 tablespoon juice)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Add the parsley, basil, lemon zest, and reserved pasta cooking water to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Add the cooked pastina to the skillet and toss with the sauce until well coated.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastina Bake with Ricotta and Spinach
This comforting pasta bake combines tender pastina, creamy ricotta cheese, and fresh spinach for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Perfect for a family meal or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pastina
– 1 cup (250ml) whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 cups (400g) fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pastina according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the ricotta mixture and stir until wilted.
5. In a greased 8-inch (20cm) baking dish, arrange cooked pastina in an even layer. Top with the ricotta-spinach mixture.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pasta is hot and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these 20 delicious pastina recipes, perfect for a comforting night in. From classic combinations like butter and Parmesan to more adventurous options like spicy sausage and peppers, there’s something for everyone. Try creamy spinach and garlic, chicken and vegetable soup, or even seafood-inspired dishes like grilled shrimp and lemon herb. For a change of pace, indulge in casserole-style recipes with mozzarella and tomatoes, or get creative with stuffed bell peppers and roasted butternut squash. Whatever your taste, there’s a pastina recipe to satisfy your cravings.
