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Italian Penicillin

My Grandma's Favorite Recipe for Pastina: Italian Penicillin

5 from 5 votes
When feeling under the weather, there's no better remedy than good 'ol Italian Penicillin - tiny Pastina simmered in a veggie-packed broth.
SERVINGS 4
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients
  

FOR THE ITALIAN PENICILLIN:

  • 4 cups Chicken Stock
  • Parmesan Rind
  • 1/2 Yellow Onion
  • 2 Carrots, peeled and cut in half
  • 2 Celery Stalks, cut in half
  • 5 Garlic Cloves
  • 1 Sprig Fresh Thyme, optional
  • 1 tsp. Turmeric
  • 1 tsp. Salt
  • 2 tbsp. Butter
  • 1 cup Pastina
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • Splash of Heavy Cream

TO TASTE & GARNISH:

  • Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • Cracked Black Pepper
  • Chopped Italian Parsley, optional
  • Fresh Lemon Juice, optional

Instructions
 

  • Add the chicken stock, parmesan rind, carrots, celery, garlic, and optional fresh thyme to a large pot. Bring to a boil, cover, and lower the heat to a simmer for 20 minutes.
  • Using a slotted ladle or spoon, transfer the vegetables to a blender, making sure to remove the parmesan rind and thyme sprig to disregard. Add turmeric, salt, along with some of the broth to the blender and blend until smooth.
  • Pour the blended veggies back into the broth, add the butter, and stir to combine. Pour in the Pastina and simmer, uncovered, for 8 - 10 minutes. Stir about every minute or so to prevent sticking.
  • Once the Pastina is al dente, turn off the heat and stir in about 1/2 cup parmesan cheese and a splash of heavy cream.
  • Serve warm with more parmesan, fresh cracked pepper, and optional Italian parsley and lemon juice.