Prince, New World Pasta Company
Prince Pastina Tiny Pasta Stars
What it is
Pastina is a type of small pasta, often shaped like stars, letters, or tiny tubes. It is made from durum wheat semolina and water. This small pasta cooks very quickly. It is a simple ingredient that can be used in many different ways. The small size makes it easy to eat, especially for young children. It is a pantry staple for many households.
How people cook with it
Pastina is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both savory and sweet dishes. Its small size makes it ideal for quick meals.
- In broth-based soups
- As a side dish
- In simple pasta salads
- As a base for creamy dishes
To cook pastina, bring a pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pastina and stir gently to prevent sticking. Cook for a very short time, usually just a few minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta well. It can then be served immediately with butter, cheese, or your favorite sauce. It is also excellent added directly to simmering soups or broths during the last few minutes of cooking.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to larger pasta shapes, pastina cooks significantly faster due to its small size. This makes it ideal for quick meals and for incorporating into dishes where a very tender texture is desired. Its miniature form also allows it to absorb flavors from broths and sauces more readily.
Who it is for
Home cooks often use pastina for preparing comforting meals and for feeding children.
How to keep the rest
Store unopened packages of pastina in a cool, dry place. Once opened, transfer any remaining pasta to an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing moisture or odors from the pantry.