A Comforting and Cozy Red Sauce Pastina Simple, Nostalgic, a

• total time: 13 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup pastina (or any tiny pasta like acini di pepe, orzo, or stelline)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tsbp butter

2–3 garlic cloves, minced

1 shallot finely chopped

2-3 tspb tomato paste

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Salt & black pepper to taste

3-4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

1–2 cups water or broth (to cook the pastina)

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

In a saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add garlic and shallot, sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant (don’t brown it).

Add tomato paste,red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Pour in the pastina and enough water or broth to just cover the pasta (about 1.5–2 cups). Stir well.

Cover and simmer for about 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pastina is tender and the mixture thickens to a risotto-like consistency. Add a splash more liquid if needed.

Pour in heavy cream if using, Stir in grated Parmesan until creamy and well combined.

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra cheese on top.