Ingredients:

  • 3/4 cup (120g) pastina (Acini di Pepe or Stelline)
  • 3 cups (710ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 3 tbsp (45ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves (10g) fresh garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup (50g) Parmigiano-Reggiano, freshly grated
  • 1 tbsp (14g) unsalted butter
  • 1/4 tsp (1.5g) kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp (1g) freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Heat 1 tbsp (15ml) of olive oil in the pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 60 seconds until fragrant and translucent. Note: Don't let it brown or it will taste bitter.
  2. Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle boil.
  3. Stir in the pastina and reduce heat to medium low.
  4. Simmer uncovered, stirring frequently, for 8–10 minutes until the liquid has reduced by half and the pasta is al dente.
  5. Remove the pot from the heat.
  6. Immediately stir in the remaining 2 tbsp (30ml) of olive oil, the butter, and the grated parmesan.
  7. Whisk vigorously for 30 seconds until the sauce becomes glossy and creamy.
  8. Fold in the black pepper and salt.
  9. Taste the seasoning, then garnish with the chopped fresh parsley.