Creating Pastina Soup is both simple and rewarding. Just follow these steps to whip up this delightful dish:

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion, garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they become tender and fragrant.
3. Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil.
4. Stir in the Pastina: Once boiling, add the pastina pasta to the pot. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes.
5. Incorporate Greens: If using, stir in the fresh spinach or kale during the last minute of cooking. This will wilt the greens without losing their vibrant color.
6. Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to your liking, adjusting for flavor.
7. Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Follow these steps closely, and you’ll have a delightful soup ready in no time!