Italian Penicillin Soup

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, then Italian Penicillin Soup is just what you need. This delightful soup is packed with wholesome vegetables and tiny pasta shapes, making it the ultimate comfort food for those chilly nights or busy weeknights. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply want something cozy to enjoy around the table with loved ones, this recipe never fails to bring smiles.

What I love most about this Italian Penicillin Soup is how easy it is to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Plus, you can whip it up quickly or let it simmer while you tackle other tasks—it’s a true lifesaver!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just about 55 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore its comforting flavors and smooth texture.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with veggies, this soup is nutritious without sacrificing taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare a big batch to enjoy throughout the week—just store the pasta separately!
• Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or veggies to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. This Italian Penicillin Soup relies on fresh vegetables and pantry staples, creating a nourishing bowl of goodness.

For the Soup

• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 3 large carrots (peeled and roughly chopped)
• 1 yellow onion (quartered)
• 5 cloves garlic (peeled)
• 3 ribs celery (halved)
• 1 tsp salt
• black pepper
• parmesan rind (optional)
• 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 ¼ cup pastina (or other small pasta shape)
• 1 lemon (more as desired)
• freshly grated parmesan and black pepper (for garnish)
• drizzle of olive oil (optional)
• chopped parsley (optional)

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have or personal preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Add some greens: Toss in spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: For a kick, add red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.
• Change the pasta: Swap out pastina for any small pasta shape like ditalini or macaroni if that’s what you have on hand.
• Herbie twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or basil for added flavor!

How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup

Step 1: Cook Vegetables

Start by adding olive oil to a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, toss in your chopped vegetables along with salt and pepper. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until they begin to brown slightly. If you’re short on time, feel free to skip this step and toss everything directly into the broth later!

Step 2: Simmer Soup

Next, add your parmesan rind and broth into the pot. Cover it up and crank up the heat until the broth reaches a gentle boil. Then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer covered for about 25-30 minutes until everything is very soft. Stir occasionally—it helps build those delicious flavors!

Step 3: Puree Vegetables

Once your veggies are tender, take out that parmesan rind and set it aside. Grab an immersion blender and puree the mixture until smooth; this makes for a wonderfully creamy texture that’s oh-so-cozy! If you don’t have an immersion blender handy, carefully transfer everything to a regular blender before returning it all back to your pot.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

Time to add your pastina! Stir it into the simmering soup and cook according to package instructions—about 8-10 minutes should do. Remember to stir occasionally! If you’re planning on saving leftovers, cook your pasta separately so it doesn’t get mushy in the broth.

Step 5: Add Lemon

Squeeze in the juice of one whole lemon—it brightens up all those flavors beautifully! Give your soup a taste test here; adjust lemon juice or seasonings as needed. If you’d like a thinner soup consistency, feel free to stir in more broth.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle your delicious Italian Penicillin Soup into bowls. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly grated parmesan, an extra dash of black pepper, and any other toppings you fancy. Now sit back and enjoy every spoonful of this comforting delight!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Penicillin Soup

Making Italian Penicillin Soup is a breeze, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your soup to the next level!

• Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge. This saves time on busy days and makes it easy to whip up this comforting soup whenever you need it.
• Experiment with Broth: While chicken broth works great, using vegetable broth gives a lovely depth of flavor. You can even try homemade broth for an extra kick!
• Don’t Skip the Lemon: The lemon juice brightens the entire dish, balancing the flavors beautifully. Adjust according to your taste; start with one lemon and add more if you like it zesty!
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to throw in any extra vegetables you have on hand, such as spinach or kale. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant colors to your soup.
• Store Pasta Separately: If you’re planning on leftovers, cook the pastina separately and add it to each bowl when serving. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy and keeps your soup fresh!

How to Serve Italian Penicillin Soup

Serving Italian Penicillin Soup is just as delightful as making it! Here are some ways to present this warm bowl of comfort.

Garnishes

• Freshly Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds creaminess and richness that enhances every spoonful.
• Chopped Parsley: Bright green parsley not only adds freshness but also a pop of color that makes your soup visually appealing.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper adds a subtle kick and elevates the overall flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread complements the soup perfectly. It’s perfect for dipping into those rich flavors!
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the soup while providing a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer a delicious side option that enhances the meal’s comforting vibe while adding healthy nutrients.
• Cheesy Flatbread: Soft flatbread topped with cheese is another comforting side that pairs well, allowing you to enjoy every last drop of your flavorful soup.

Enjoy your cozy bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup and all its comforting goodness!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Penicillin Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or store it for later. Here’s how you can keep it fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If you added pastina, consider storing it separately to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• Cool the soup completely and pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy identification.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If the soup is too thick after freezing, add a splash of broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Italian Penicillin Soup!

Can I use different vegetables in Italian Penicillin Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in any veggies you have on hand or prefer. Zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers would work beautifully in this comforting recipe.

How long does Italian Penicillin Soup last in the fridge?

This delicious soup can be stored in the fridge for about 4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh!

What can I serve with Italian Penicillin Soup?

Pair this warm soup with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. The options are endless!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Italian Penicillin Soup! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort on even the toughest days. Enjoy every spoonful and feel free to share your own twists on this cozy recipe. Happy cooking!