Description
This comforting and flavorful Pastina with Mushroom Leek Parmesan Broth recipe features tender tiny pasta cooked in a savory vegetable broth infused with sautéed mushrooms, leeks, garlic, and aromatic thyme. Finished with creamy Parmesan cheese and optional heavy cream, this dish is perfect for a warm, nourishing meal that’s easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastina and Broth
- 1 cup pastina (or any small pasta)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Sautéed Vegetables
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms work well)
- 1 leek, cleaned and thinly sliced (white and light green parts only)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Finishing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and leeks, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the leeks have softened.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
- Simmer Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer. Add dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to infuse the broth with balanced flavors.
- Cook the Pastina: Stir in the pastina and let it cook gently in the simmering broth for 6-8 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the broth’s rich flavor.
- Add Cream (Optional): For a richer and creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream now and combine well.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is completely melted and incorporated, creating a smooth, cheesy broth.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot pastina into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth if you prefer a richer, non-vegetarian flavor.
- Heavy cream is optional but adds a lovely creaminess to the broth.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free small pasta instead of pastina.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
