Italian Penicillin Soup

A cozy soup to warm the soul. Italian Penicillin Soup with veggies and pastina is the perfect comfort meal for tough or busy days. This delightful dish not only satisfies your hunger but also brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply need a comforting hug in a bowl, this soup is a go-to option that fits various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Comforting and Cozy: This soup warms you up from the inside out, making it an ideal choice for chilly days or when you’re feeling unwell.
  • Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious homemade soup ready in under an hour.
  • Versatile Ingredients: The recipe allows for substitutions based on what you have on hand, making it easy to customize.
  • Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this soup provides essential nutrients for your body.
  • Perfect for Leftovers: Italian Penicillin Soup stores well, so you can enjoy it later without losing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather a few tools that will make your life easier. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and cooking of your Italian Penicillin Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Immersion blender (or regular blender)
  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large pot: A sturdy pot is crucial for simmering soups evenly. It allows all ingredients to cook together harmoniously.
  • Immersion blender: This tool makes pureeing your vegetables effortless without transferring hot liquids to another container.
  • Cutting board & Chef’s knife: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

To create this comforting Italian Penicillin Soup, gather the following ingredients:

Vegetables

  • 3 Tbsp olive oil
  • 3 large carrots (peeled and roughly chopped)
  • 1 yellow onion (quartered)
  • 5 cloves garlic (peeled)
  • 3 ribs celery (halved)

Broth Base

  • 1 tsp salt
  • black pepper
  • parmesan rind (optional)
  • 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Pasta & Garnishes

  • 1 ¼ cup pastina (or other small pasta shape)
  • 1 lemon (more as desired)
  • freshly grated parmesan and black pepper
  • drizzle of olive oil (optional)
  • chopped parsley (optional)

How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup

Step 1: Cook Vegetables

Add olive oil to a large pot and heat it over medium heat. Add your chopped vegetables along with salt and pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are slightly browned. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step by adding the oil and veggies directly to your broth.

Step 2: Simmer Soup

Next, add the parmesan rind and broth to the pot. Cover it and turn the heat to high until the broth reaches a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer covered for 25-30 minutes until the vegetables are very soft. Stir occasionally during this time.

Step 3: Puree Vegetables

Remove the parmesan rind from the pot once done simmering. Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. If you do not have an immersion blender, carefully transfer all cooked vegetables into a heat-safe blender, blend until smooth, then return them back to your pot.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

Add your pastina or any small pasta shape into the simmering soup. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally. If you plan on storing leftovers, consider cooking your pasta separately to keep it from becoming mushy when reheating.

Step 5: Add Lemon

Squeeze in the juice of one full lemon into your soup. Taste it and adjust seasonings or lemon juice as desired. For a thinner consistency, stir in more broth if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with freshly grated parmesan cheese, additional black pepper, and any other toppings you enjoy. Enjoy every warm spoonful!

How to Serve Italian Penicillin Soup

Serving Italian Penicillin Soup is a delightful experience that can be tailored to individual tastes. Whether you prefer a simple presentation or an elaborate spread, there are many ways to elevate this cozy dish.

Garnishes

  • Freshly Grated Parmesan: Top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of parmesan for extra flavor.
  • Chopped Parsley: Add a pop of color and freshness with chopped parsley.
  • Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the richness of the soup.

Accompaniments

  • Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping. A sourdough or ciabatta works well.
  • Salad: Pair with a light salad, such as arugula or mixed greens, dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
  • Lemon Wedges: Offer lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy an extra zesty kick.

Presentation Ideas

  • Soup Bowls: Use rustic bowls for a homey feel.
  • Colorful Serving Platters: Present garnishes and bread on vibrant platters to enhance the visual appeal.
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How to Perfect Italian Penicillin Soup

To make your Italian Penicillin Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

  • Flavor Base: Sautéing vegetables in olive oil before adding broth deepens the soup’s flavor.
  • Quality Broth: Use homemade or high-quality store-bought broth for the best taste.
  • Adjust Lemon Juice: Balance acidity by gradually adding lemon juice until it reaches your preferred level of brightness.
  • Al Dente Pasta: Cook pastina until just al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the soup.
  • Blend Smoothly: Ensure your vegetable puree is completely smooth for a velvety texture.
  • Serve Fresh: For optimal flavor, serve immediately after preparing.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Penicillin Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Italian Penicillin Soup can create a satisfying meal. Here are some great options that complement the soup beautifully.

  1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
  2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing add crunch and richness to your meal.
  3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil offers freshness that balances the warmth of the soup.
  4. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide additional nutrients and textures.
  5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs wonderfully and adds variety to your dining experience.
  6. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized delights offer an earthy flavor that complements the soup nicely.
  7. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad can be a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
  8. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings a crunchy element that pairs well with the smoothness of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian Penicillin Soup can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture.

  • Overcooking vegetables: This can make them mushy. To avoid this, simmer the soup just until the vegetables are very soft.
  • Skipping the lemon juice: Not adding lemon may leave your soup bland. Always add some lemon juice for a bright flavor boost.
  • Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to a flat taste. Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon as needed.
  • Not pureeing enough: Leaving chunks of vegetables can change the desired texture. Ensure you puree the veggies until smooth for a creamy consistency.
  • Cooking pasta in the soup: This can make the pasta soggy if left in too long. Cook pastina separately if storing leftovers.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Italian Penicillin Soup

  • Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
  • Leave space at the top of containers for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Italian Penicillin Soup

  • Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval until hot.
  • Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Italian Penicillin Soup, here are some common inquiries.

How do I enhance the flavor of Italian Penicillin Soup?

You can enhance flavors by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary during simmering or incorporating more garlic for depth.

Can I make Italian Penicillin Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any meat-based ingredients.

What pasta works best in Italian Penicillin Soup?

Pastina is ideal, but other small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini work well too.

Is Italian Penicillin Soup good for colds?

Absolutely! The warm broth and wholesome ingredients provide comfort and nourishment when you’re feeling under the weather.

How can I customize my Italian Penicillin Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins like beans or shredded chicken to suit your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Italian Penicillin Soup is not just a delicious meal; it’s also versatile and perfect for various occasions. You can easily customize it with different veggies or proteins based on what you have on hand. Try this cozy recipe to warm up on chilly days!

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Italian Penicillin Soup

Italian Penicillin Soup


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  • Author: Grace
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Description

Italian Penicillin Soup is the ultimate cozy comfort food that warms both body and soul. Featuring an aromatic blend of fresh vegetables, hearty pastina, and a flavorful broth, this Italian-inspired dish is perfect for chilly days or when you need a nourishing pick-me-up. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also allows for customization based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving a hug in a bowl, this soup delivers satisfying warmth and delightful flavors. Dive into a bowl of this comforting goodness today!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 Tbsp olive oil
  • 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 1 yellow onion, quartered
  • 5 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 3 ribs celery, halved
  • 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 ¼ cup pastina
  • Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add carrots, onion, garlic, celery, salt, and pepper; cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly browned.
  2. Pour in the broth and add the parmesan rind (if using). Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 25–30 minutes until vegetables are soft.
  3. Remove the parmesan rind and puree the soup using an immersion blender until smooth.
  4. Stir in pastina and cook according to package instructions (about 8–10 minutes) until al dente.
  5. Squeeze lemon juice into the soup; adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Serve hot with garnishes like parmesan cheese and parsley.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 217
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 31g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

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