LIttle Bits Of Pasta

Pasta goes well in soup.It gives any from tomato to minestrone texture and taste. The only problem is it'

s too big. That's where the smaller sort comes in handy.It's easy to cook and easy to eat.

For those who like spaghetti or thinner noodles in their soup try Barilla fideo cut spaghetti. The known pasta company has created spaghetti strands or bits, that are perfect in any soup or even broth. Add it to chicken , beef or vegetable broth for those sick day lunches or dinner. It gives the broth more nutrients  which is better for the patient.It would also be good in a thick homemade tomato and basil soup too.The cut spaghetti would also be a fun change up in a classic minestrone where shells are used.There is also orzo which you probably used all summer in salads.It is also great in plain broths, perfect for a sick day meal. However it works just as well in minestrones and Italian wedding soups. Keep in mind that orzo is good served with just butter and cheese.It makes for a good Saturday night or Sunday supper where you just don't want to cook something fancy or elaborate.

Most people , especially those who grew up in Italian households know about pastina. These were a standard ingredient in chicken soups.Again, like orzo it's good on it's own cooked in broth and topped with butter and Parmesan. Ditalini or little fingers are bead like pieces of pasta. Many home chefs use it in a variety of different soups.It sometimes is the backbone for minestrone, meshing nicely with chopped tomatoes and onions along with kidney and cannelini beans.It add texture and more nutrients to a simple vegetable soup, rich with zucchini, cabbage , carrots and celery.Ditalini is also perfect for a simple cheese sauce. Just cook cheddar and whole cream into a sauce and pour over the pasta for a quick, satisfying bite. Other pastas that are good in soups and broth are the tiny wagon wheels called ruote and trofie , short twisted spaghetti like strands. Can you combine potatoes and pasta in the same soup. You can but go easy on the potatoes.There's enough starch from both. Besides the kids would probably prefer more pasta over the spuds anyway. 

Smaller sized pasta is a great addition to any soup or broth. It adds texture and taste, elevating the bowl to another level. Try it in your favorite.