Pastina al Pomodor
This is the bowl you make when you want something simple, warm, and a little nostalgic. Tiny pasta cooked in a rich tomato base until it turns silky, cozy, and justthick enough to hug a spoon. No fuss, no overthinking, Just simple Italian-style comfort food.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small white onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup tomato purée
- 2 cups hot broth or stock plus extra as needed
- 1 cup pastina stelline or other small shape
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil to serve
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Tiny pinch of baking soda optional (see notes)
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ to 1 cup shredded mozzarella for a creamy, stretchy finish
- 1 tbsp butter for extra richness and gloss
- Pinch of chili flakes for heat
- Extra grated Parmesan for a saltier finish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium-low heat. Add onion and cook for 3–5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato purée and 2 cups hot broth. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly reduces and thickens.
- Add pastina and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently. The mixture should stay loose and glossy — add a splash of extra broth only if it gets too thick before the pasta is cooked.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.
Notes
Baking Soda Note
- Use a tiny pinch (about 1/8 tsp) to mellow tomato acidity and create a smoother sauce. Add early in the simmer and adjust carefully.
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days
- Freezer: Store in a freezer safe container for up to 1 month (texture will soften slightly)
- Reheating:
- Stovetop (best): Add a splash of broth or water and warm gently over low heat.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring and loosening with liquid as needed.
Tried this recipe?
Mention @thewifewiththeknife or tag #wifewiththeknife
Mention @thewifewiththeknife or tag #wifewiththeknife