When the chill of winter settles in and the days feel a little longer, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup to warm your soul. This comforting dish transports me to a bustling Italian kitchen, where the magic of simmering broth mingles with the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables. The delightful aroma of garlic and onion dancing together, combined with the earthy sweetness of carrots and the creamy texture of pastina, brings a sense of coziness that’s hard to resist.
After a long day, I often find solace in this nutritious recipe, perfect for anyone looking to escape the monotony of fast food. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it also packs a punch when it comes to flavor and heartiness. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply in the mood for comfort, Italian Penicillin Soup is sure to satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body. So let’s dive into this delightful bowl of goodness that promises to become a staple in your winter rotation!
Why Will You Love Italian Penicillin Soup?
Comforting Warmth: This cozy soup wraps you in warmth, ideal for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with nutritious vegetables and wholesome broth, it’s both heartwarming and health-boosting!
Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Versatile Delight: Customize it with different pasta shapes, proteins, or spices to suit any palate!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s family dinner or a gathering, everyone will be reaching for seconds!
Make this nurturing bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup the star of your table and enjoy its multiple benefits for body and soul!
Italian Penicillin Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and aids in cooking vegetables; substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
- Carrots (3 large) – Provide natural sweetness and color, making the soup vibrant.
- Yellow Onion (1) – Adds depth of flavor; essential for a flavorful base.
- Garlic (5 cloves) – Enhances flavor with aromatic depth that elevates the dish.
- Celery (3 ribs) – Contributes to the soup base; can use leeks as a substitute if desired.
- Salt (1 tsp) – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for perfect balance.
- Black Pepper – For seasoning; fresh cracked is preferred for added flavor.
- Parmesan Rind (optional) – Adds umami to the broth for extra depth.
For the Broth
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth (8 cups) – The soup’s base; use low-sodium for a healthier option.
For the Pasta
- Pastina (1 ¼ cups) – Tiny pasta shape that lends heartiness; can substitute with orzo or ditalini.
Finishing Touches
- Lemon (1) – Brightens the flavor; adjust to taste for a refreshing finish.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan – For serving, adds creaminess and enhances the soup’s richness.
- Chopped Parsley (optional) – Adds freshness for garnish, making the soup visually appealing.
With these simple yet nourishing ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a comforting bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup!
How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup
- Cook Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped carrots, onion, celery, garlic, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until slightly browned and fragrant.
- Simmer Soup: Add the parmesan rind and broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the veggies are soft and tender.
- Puree Vegetables: Once the vegetables are soft, remove the parmesan rind. Blend the soup using an immersion blender or a conventional blender until it reaches a smooth, velvety consistency. Return it to the pot.
- Cook Pasta: Stir in the pastina and cook for 8-10 minutes or until al-dente. If you plan to store leftovers, consider cooking the pasta separately to maintain its texture.
- Add Lemon: Squeeze in the lemon juice, adjusting to your taste preferences. Add more broth if a thinner consistency is desired for the soup.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly grated parmesan, a sprinkle of black pepper, and optional olive oil or chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
Optional: Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Italian Penicillin Soup?
When savoring a warm bowl of this hearty soup, consider pairing it with delightful accompaniments to create a complete and comforting meal experience.
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Crusty Bread: The perfect vehicle for scooping up that delicious soup, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. It also invites you to indulge in the flavorful broth without any fuss.
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Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness, adding a fresh and crisp element to your meal. Don’t forget to drizzle some extra virgin olive oil for depth!
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Garlic Bread: A nod to Italian cuisine, this buttery and garlicky delight enhances the cozy flavors of the soup while providing a delightful contrast in texture. Plus, it’s always a favorite!
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Parmesan Crisps: Light and crunchy, these homemade crisps bring an added layer of umami while complementing the soup’s cheesy notes beautifully. They are a fun twist to munch on!
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Savory Stuffed Peppers: These colorful beauties are packed with nutritious ingredients and make an excellent side that pairs wonderfully with the comforting nature of the soup. They add heartiness while keeping the flavors vibrant.
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Herbal Tea: For a warming drink option, a light herbal tea such as chamomile or lemon balm can offer soothing comfort alongside the soup, rounding out the delightful experience beautifully.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: For a light, refreshing dessert, end the meal with a seasonal fruit salad. The sweetness balances the savory elements perfectly, leaving you feeling satisfied yet not overly heavy.
Italian Penicillin Soup Variations
Feel free to explore the endless possibilities that can make your Italian Penicillin Soup truly your own!
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Gluten-Free: Swap pastina with gluten-free pasta or quinoa for a fantastic gluten-free option.
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Zesty Spin: Add a teaspoon of grated lemon zest for an extra burst of brightness that elevates the dish.
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Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta just before serving for an indulgent twist.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like thyme or basil, adding them during the simmer for deeper flavor notes.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a delightful touch of heat that warms you up.
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Protein Boost: Incorporate shredded chicken or canned chickpeas to turn your soup into a more filling, protein-packed meal.
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Root Veggie Twist: Substitute some carrots with sweet potatoes or parsnips for a slightly sweeter, earthy flavor profile.
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Mushroom Medley: Add sautéed mushrooms for a hearty texture and umami flavor, perfect for mushroom lovers!
Each of these variations allows you to tailor this beloved soup to your family’s taste, enhancing the comforting experience with new flavors and textures!
Make Ahead Options
Italian Penicillin Soup is a fantastic recipe for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors any day of the week. You can chop the vegetables and sauté them up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the blended soup base can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months for easy reheating. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the pastina separately and stir it into the reheated soup, adding a splash of broth if needed. This way, you’ll have a cozy homemade meal ready in no time, just as delicious as when you first made it!
How to Store and Freeze Italian Penicillin Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Italian Penicillin Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. If you’ve cooked the pasta in the soup, it’ll stay good, but consider cooking separately for longer shelf-life.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the blended soup base without pasta for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove over low heat. Add freshly cooked pastina or your preferred pasta for a lovely texture.
Room Temperature: If serving straight away, let the soup sit out for no more than 2 hours to maintain safety and quality.
Expert Tips for Italian Penicillin Soup
Thicker Texture: Blend until smooth for a creamier soup. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend just half!
Flavor Booster: Consider adding a bay leaf during simmering for an aromatic twist. Remove it before blending to keep flavors balanced.
Avoid Mushy Pasta: For perfect leftovers, cook pastina separately and add just before serving. This keeps it firm and delightful!
Make Ahead: This Italian Penicillin Soup is freezer-friendly! Blend the base without pasta and freeze for easy reheating later.
Garnish Matters: Don’t skip the lemon and parsley! They add a fresh, zesty finish that elevates the flavors beautifully.
Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe FAQs
What vegetables should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables are key. Opt for vibrant carrots, sweet yellow onions, and crisp celery. If your celery has dark spots, it’s best to avoid it as freshness greatly impacts the taste of your soup. Always choose firm vegetables that feel heavy for their size for the best results!
How should I store leftover Italian Penicillin Soup?
You can easily store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you cooked pasta in the soup, it may soften over time, so consider cooking it separately for perfect leftovers. Just reheat your soup on the stove and add freshly cooked pasta before serving!
Can I freeze the Italian Penicillin Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the blended soup base cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, reheat on low, and add your cooked pastina for a delicious meal.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find your soup is thicker than you’d like, no worries! Simply add a bit more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir it well and let it gently heat through. This allows for perfect texture while maintaining all the delicious flavors.
Is Italian Penicillin Soup suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes! This soup is vegetarian-friendly and can easily be made vegan by using vegetable broth and omitting the parmesan rind. If you have allergies, check your specific ingredients—like pasta varieties—which might include gluten. Serve with a fresh salad or gluten-free bread for a complete meal!
Italian Penicillin Soup: Your Cozy Comfort for Cold Days
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped carrots, onion, celery, garlic, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until slightly browned and fragrant.
- Add the parmesan rind and broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the veggies are soft and tender.
- Once the vegetables are soft, remove the parmesan rind. Blend the soup using an immersion blender or a conventional blender until it reaches a smooth, velvety consistency. Return it to the pot.
- Stir in the pastina and cook for 8-10 minutes or until al-dente. If you plan to store leftovers, consider cooking the pasta separately.
- Squeeze in the lemon juice, adjusting to your taste preferences. Add more broth if a thinner consistency is desired.
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly grated parmesan, a sprinkle of black pepper, and optional olive oil or chopped parsley.