The aroma of Italian Penicillin Soup wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm embrace of garlic, herbs, and vibrant vegetables. Picture this: a steaming bowl filled with hearty ingredients that dance together in perfect harmony, promising to heal not just your body but also your soul. balsamic roasted asparagus garlic and butter roasted potatoes.
This delightful dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or when you’re under the weather and need a comforting hug in a bowl. With each spoonful, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors that transports you to an Italian kitchen filled with laughter and love. comforting mashed potato casserole.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Italian Penicillin Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a weeknight lifesaver
- The flavors are so rich and comforting that they’ll warm your heart from the first bite
- Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it visually appealing on any table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a starter or main course, adapting easily to your family’s tastes
Sharing this soup at family gatherings always gets smiles and requests for seconds. It’s become my go-to remedy for when someone feels under the weather.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor and health benefits.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; choose one that feels firm and heavy.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring robust flavor; aim for plump ones without blemishes.
- Carrots: Sweet, vibrant carrots enhance color and taste; pick ones that are crisp and bright.
- Celery: Fresh celery adds crunch; look for stalks that snap easily when bent.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness while still achieving depth of flavor.
- Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole peeled tomatoes for a richer texture; crush them before adding! For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew recipe.
- Dried Oregano: Authentic Italian flavor comes from quality oregano; check for freshness before using.
- Pasta (like Orzo): Small pasta shapes cook quickly and absorb the soup’s flavors beautifully.
- Fresh Spinach or Kale: Add greens right at the end for color and nutrients; use whatever you prefer!
- Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens flavors; always choose fresh over bottled.
- Parmesan Cheese (optional): Grated Parmesan adds richness; use it generously if you’re feeling indulgent!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, releasing their sweet aroma—around 5 minutes should do!
Add Vegetables: Toss in minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally until they soften slightly—about 3 to 4 minutes—while that irresistible smell fills your kitchen.
Pour in the Broth: Carefully add chicken broth along with canned tomatoes (crushed beforehand). Increase heat until it simmers gently—this is where the magic starts happening!
Add Pasta: Stir in your chosen pasta (like orzo) once the soup bubbles away. Allow it to cook following package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes—until tender yet al dente.
Add Greens: Just before serving, fold in fresh spinach or kale until wilted. The soup now bursts with color and nutrient goodness!
Squeeze Lemon Juice: For an extra zing, finish by stirring in fresh lemon juice right before serving! If desired, top each bowl with grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Now grab your favorite spoon and enjoy every comforting mouthful of this Italian Penicillin Soup! You’ve earned it after all that cooking! For more inspiration, check out this White Bean Mushroom Stew recipe.
You Must Know
- Italian Penicillin Soup is more than just a dish; it’s comfort in a bowl
- The aroma fills your kitchen, wrapping you in warmth, while the flavors dance on your palate
- This soup is perfect for cold evenings or when you’re under the weather
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing vegetables to build flavor, then add broth and noodles for a hearty finish. Simmer until everything melds beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out veggies based on what’s in season or add some spice with red pepper flakes. Customizing keeps it exciting.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your broth is flavorful; it forms the soup’s base
- Use fresh herbs for added brightness, and don’t skip seasoning at each stage of cooking for depth
- A squeeze of lemon can elevate the soup’s flavor profile beautifully!
Sharing my first experience making this soup was hilarious; my friend mistook it for a fancy restaurant dish and demanded the recipe immediately!
FAQ
What can I substitute for chicken broth in Italian Penicillin Soup?
fresh cranberry chicken salad.
Vegetable broth or homemade stock works wonderfully as alternatives.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Absolutely! Shredded chicken or Italian sausage enhances flavor and heartiness.
How long does it take to make Italian Penicillin Soup?
It usually takes around 30-40 minutes from start to finish, including prep time.
Italian Penicillin Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Italian Penicillin Soup is a heartwarming, aromatic dish that combines garlic, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta in a flavorful broth. Perfect for family dinners or when you’re feeling under the weather, this easy-to-make soup promises to nourish both body and soul. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s an instant classic that will bring smiles to the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (28 oz) can whole peeled tomatoes, crushed
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery; cook for another 3–4 minutes until vegetables soften.
- Pour in chicken broth and crushed tomatoes; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions (8–10 minutes) until al dente.
- Just before serving, fold in spinach or kale until wilted and stir in lemon juice. Serve with grated Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
