Italian Penicillin Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, then Italian Penicillin Soup is just the ticket! This delightful soup, packed with fresh veggies and tiny pastina, has been a staple in my kitchen for years. It’s my go-to recipe for those tough days when I need something nourishing and heartwarming. Whether you’re facing a busy weeknight or hosting a cozy family gathering, this soup brings everyone together and lifts spirits.

What makes this Italian Penicillin Soup even more special is its simplicity. You can whip it up with just a few wholesome ingredients, making it the perfect choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Plus, it’s so deliciously satisfying that you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this soup simmering away while you tackle other tasks.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the small pasta shapes, making it an easy win for family dinners.
• Make Ahead Convenience: This soup stores well, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week without sacrificing flavor.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of fresh vegetables and zesty lemon creates a deliciously bright taste that will warm your soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Italian Penicillin Soup features simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Each one plays an important role in creating that rich, comforting flavor we all crave.

For the Soup Base

• 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

Broth and Pasta

• parmesan rind (optional)
• 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 ¼ cup pastina (or other small pasta shape)

Finishing Touches

• 1 lemon (more as desired)
• freshly grated parmesan and black pepper
• drizzle of olive oil (optional)
• chopped parsley (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this Italian Penicillin Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.

• Add More Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Make It Heartier: Add cooked beans or lentils for added protein and fiber.
• Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.
• Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can add wonderful layers of flavor—just toss them in at the end!

How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup

Step 1: Cook Vegetables

Start by adding your olive oil to a large pot over medium heat. Once warm, toss in your chopped carrots, onion, garlic, and celery along with salt and black pepper. Sauté these veggies for about 4-5 minutes until they’re slightly browned. This step helps bring out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. If you’re short on time, don’t worry! You can skip this step by adding everything directly into the broth later.

Step 2: Simmer Soup

Next, pour in your broth (chicken or vegetable works perfectly!) along with the optional parmesan rind. Cover it up and turn up the heat until you reach a gentle boil. Then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes until those lovely vegetables are very soft. Stir occasionally to keep everything mixed together nicely!

Step 3: Puree Vegetables

After simmering, carefully remove the parmesan rind. Now comes the fun part! Use an immersion blender to puree those veggies until they’re completely smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender handy, simply transfer everything into a regular blender in batches—just be cautious since it’s hot! Once blended, return it to the pot.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

Time to add your pastina! Stir it into your beautiful soup and let it cook for another 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente. Remember to stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick together. If you’re planning on saving some leftovers, I recommend cooking the pasta separately to keep its texture intact.

Step 5: Add Lemon

Now for that burst of flavor! Squeeze in the juice from your lemon—this will brighten up all those delicious flavors. Give it a taste test and adjust seasonings as needed; add more lemon juice if you’re feeling zesty!

Step 6: Serve

Finally, ladle that lovely soup into serving bowls. Top each bowl with freshly grated parmesan, a sprinkle of black pepper, and maybe a drizzle of olive oil if you’re feeling fancy! Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Now sit back and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Penicillin Soup

Making Italian Penicillin Soup is all about enhancing flavors and ensuring the best texture. Here are some tips to make your soup irresistibly good!

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh, high-quality veggies not only enhance the flavor but also provide better nutrition and vibrant colors, making your soup visually appealing.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, then taste as you go. This allows you to control the flavor and avoid over-seasoning, resulting in a perfectly balanced soup.
• Incorporate herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme just before serving can brighten up the dish. Herbs bring freshness and depth that complements the hearty ingredients.
• Store pasta separately: If you’re planning to save leftovers, cook the pastina separately. This prevents it from becoming mushy when reheated, ensuring each bowl remains deliciously al dente.
• Experiment with lemon: The acidity of lemon juice can be adjusted based on your preference. Start with one full lemon, then add more if you like a tangy kick that elevates the overall flavor profile of the soup.

How to Serve Italian Penicillin Soup

Serving Italian Penicillin Soup is an opportunity to showcase its comforting nature. With simple garnishes and side dishes, you can turn this cozy meal into a complete dining experience.

Garnishes

• Freshly grated parmesan: A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds creaminess and enhances the umami flavor of the soup.
• Chopped parsley: Bright green parsley not only adds color but also a fresh taste that balances the rich flavors of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. Its chewy texture complements the smoothness of the soup beautifully.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with greens like arugula or spinach tossed in a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables make a hearty side that pairs well with this dish, adding texture and additional flavors that enhance your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Italian Penicillin Soup will not only nourish your body but also warm your heart! Enjoy every spoonful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Italian Penicillin Soup is not only comforting but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Keep pasta separate if you plan to have leftovers, as it can become mushy when stored in the soup.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave for quicker thawing.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding extra broth or water if needed for consistency.
• If reheating from frozen, simmer gently until heated all the way through.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries about Italian Penicillin Soup.

Can I make Italian Penicillin Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the parmesan rind if you want a completely vegan version.

How long can I store Italian Penicillin Soup in the fridge?

You can store Italian Penicillin Soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s cooled down before sealing it in an airtight container.

Can I use other types of pasta in Italian Penicillin Soup?

Yes, feel free to substitute pastina with any small pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as needed!

Final Thoughts

This Italian Penicillin Soup is truly a cozy hug in a bowl! Its simple ingredients come together to create a delightful comfort meal perfect for busy days or when you’re feeling under the weather. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any tweaks you made—happy cooking!