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:
- 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.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir in the pastina and reduce heat to medium low.
- Simmer uncovered, stirring frequently, for 8–10 minutes until the liquid has reduced by half and the pasta is al dente.
- Remove the pot from the heat.
- Immediately stir in the remaining 2 tbsp (30ml) of olive oil, the butter, and the grated parmesan.
- Whisk vigorously for 30 seconds until the sauce becomes glossy and creamy.
- Fold in the black pepper and salt.
- Taste the seasoning, then garnish with the chopped fresh parsley.