Nonna's Classic Pastina Recipe (2024)

FAQs

Are you supposed to drain pastina? ›

Are You Supposed to Drain Pastina? No. Traditionally pastina is cooked with just enough liquid as to absorb most of it but have some remaining in the pot. It makes sense, since the liquid is so often a flavorful chicken or vegetable broth - see the en brodo pastina recipe listed below as an example.

Pastina ( lit. 'little pasta') is a variety of pasta consisting of tiny pieces, typically of a round (irregular) shape with a diameter of about 1.6 millimetres (1/16").

There are more pasta shapes in the world than there are stars in the sky. And the actual “star” of the pasta world is pastina, the little star-shaped pasta that goes great in soups. Sadly, pasta producing giant Ronzoni made the devastating decision to discontinue pastina in the beginning of 2023.

Pastina is an ingredient commonly found in Italian cookbooks and pantries; it's a favorite pasta to serve children, especially when they are sick, so many Italians have fond childhood memories of it. The small size makes pastina a great base for soups, salads, and dishes that may otherwise use rice.

We searched extensively for an alternative solution but were unable to identify a viable option to make Pastina in the same beloved small shape, size and standards you have come to expect from Ronzoni. As a result, we had to make the difficult decision to discontinue this product.”

There's another benefit of using pasta water: By not rinsing your pasta, you're keeping a nice coating of starch that'll bind the pasta itself to the sauce, creating yet even more harmony on your plate.

Its healthy and nutritious and also kid friendly with hidden veggies. It's also vegan too so everyone can enjoy this classic Italian staple. If you want an even simpler variation of pastina, you must also try my cheesy pastina recipe which is another favorite of mine.

This plainer buttered pastina is perfect when for the “BRAT” diet. Although the acronym stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast—some pastina with butter fits in also. The brat diet is ideal for smaller children or those experiencing nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Acini di pepe: Acini di pepe is a small, round pasta that is about the same size as pastina. It is commonly used in soups, stews, and pasta salads.

Ronzoni has discontinued pastina, its star-shaped pasta. Why some enthusiasts are mourning the loss of 'Italian penicillin. '

Has Barilla discontinued pastina? ›

Pastina is here to stay!

Pastina is made by other companies, notably Barilla, but based on the public reaction to the news, Ronzoni's appears particularly beloved.

Straciatella, or Italian egg-drop soup, is probably the most popular sick-day food in any Italian household.

Yes, orzo is a pastina pasta, which translates to "little pasta." Pastina pasta are typically thought of as pasta shapes for soups. Orzo, also called risoni, is one of the smaller pastas available, along with ditaloni, grattini, risi, midolline and corallini.

The good news is several other brands still manufacture pastina and sell it in the States. Barilla, Colavita, San Giorgio, and Target's private label Good & Gather all make versions of pastina that are still available.

Quickly and loosely drain the pasta into a colander in the sink. Noodles should still be wet. Do not rinse the pasta, though. The starch in the water is what helps the sauce adhere to your pasta.

Drain the ravioli.

Pour slowly, and be careful not to lose any pasta. If you don't have a pasta strainer, pour the water out of the pot while keeping the pasta within.

Cook the pasta to al dente as it will continue to cook when added to the sauce. Tortellini will float when it's cooked through. Use a slotted spoon or a kitchen spider to remove the pasta from the boiling water or drain in a collender.

No problem, says Bon Appétit, suggesting taking safety precautions when using your pan lid to drain pasta water. "Leave the lid slightly askew, about ¼ inch. Hold the lid down with insulated oven mitts. Make sure to hold the pot away from you as you pour — otherwise you risk steam burns," the article points out.