pastina

Pastina is a category of tiny pasta shapes. The name itself is Italian and translates to "little paste" or "tiny pasta." It is often used in soups, particularly for children or those who are ill, due to its small size and easy digestibility. Beyond soups, pastina can also be served as a side dish, often dressed with butter, cheese, or a light sauce.

There are many different shapes of pastina, each with its own name and characteristics. Some common varieties include stelline (small stars), orzo (rice-shaped), alphabet pasta, ditalini (small thimbles), and acini di pepe (peppercorn-sized). While most pastina is made from durum wheat semolina and water, variations may exist using different flours or egg. Its small size allows it to cook very quickly, making it a convenient ingredient. In Italian culture, pastina is often a comforting food associated with home and care.