Italian Penicillin Soup: A Hearty Bowl of Comfort
Picture this: the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow through your kitchen window. It’s one of those cozy evenings when the world outside feels a little colder, but inside, the air is thick with promise and warmth. As you stir a pot bubbling with flavors, you can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over you. That’s the magic of Italian Penicillin Soup—a recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly night.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Italian Penicillin Soup isn’t just your average bowl of soup; it’s a culinary embrace filled with rich flavors, easy to prepare, and a tradition that warms the heart. Here’s why you’ll love this comforting food:
- Comfort in a Bowl: Each spoonful wraps you in warmth, delivering both flavor and comfort when you need it most.
- Quick Dinner Idea: Ready in under 30 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family Favorite: Kid-approved tastes that bring everyone together, from fussy eaters to gourmet connoisseurs.
- Festive Meal Potential: Whether it’s a quiet family dinner or a festive gathering, this soup fits perfectly into any occasion.
- Healthy Option: Packed with veggies and wholesome ingredients, this recipe offers both flavor and nutrition without compromise.
Ingredients
To whip up your own pot of Italian Penicillin Soup, gather these ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – an essential Italian flavor, adding richness and depth.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – creating the base of flavor and sweetness.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – bringing that aromatic kick that fills your kitchen.
- 3 medium carrots, sliced – sweet and earthy, adding texture and color.
- 3 stalks celery, chopped – a crisp addition for freshness.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes – juicy bursts of flavor that brighten the soup.
- 4 cups vegetable broth – the heart of the soup, rich and nourishing.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – a fragrant herb that screams Italian cooking.
- 1 bay leaf – adding subtle layers of flavor (make sure to remove before serving!).
- Salt and pepper to taste – basic but essential, enhancing all the beautiful flavors.
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini) – for a hearty bite that fills you up.
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale – a nutritious and vibrant touch.
Substitutions: Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth for a non-vegetarian option, swap in your favorite beans for added protein, or replace pasta with quinoa for a gluten-free alternative.
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Best of all, you’ll have a delicious homemade soup ready faster than takeout!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. As the oil shimmers, add the chopped onion and sauté until it softens and becomes translucent—about 5 minutes. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!
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Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant oils.
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Add the sliced carrots and chopped celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies begin to soften.
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Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juice, then add the vegetable broth, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
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Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, taking in all those aromatic spices and flavors.
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Add in the small pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
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Just before serving, fold in the fresh spinach or kale, letting it wilt down and brighten the entire soup.
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Remove the bay leaf, taste for seasoning, and serve piping hot!
Tips and Variations
- Feeling adventurous? Add a splash of lemon juice right before serving for a zesty finish.
- Swap the pasta for quinoa or farro for a unique twist that adds nutty flavors.
- Throw in some cannellini beans for extra protein and creaminess.
- For an indulgent touch, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for that classic Italian richness.
Serving Suggestions
Imagine this delightful soup served steaming in deep bowls, accompanied by a crusty loaf of garlic bread and a fresh green salad. For a little extra elegance, pair it with a glass of Pinot Grigio or a soothing herbal tea to warm you up even more. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering of friends, this Italian Penicillin Soup will steal the spotlight.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! This soup stores beautifully—simply let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, just simmer gently on the stove or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Pro Tips from the Kitchen
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Fresh Herbs for Fresh Flavor: If available, try using fresh basil or parsley as a garnish. It brightens the soup and adds an aromatic touch.
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Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, add less broth. For a thinner soup, add more until you get the desired consistency.
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Meal Prep Magic: Make a larger batch on Sunday and portion it out for quick lunches throughout the week.
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Kid-Friendly: Let kids help with adding ingredients and stirring. It’s a fun way to get them involved in the kitchen!
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Spice It Up: If you like a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat without overpowering the flavors.
FAQs
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Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to throw in any seasonal veggies you have on hand—zucchini, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes work wonderfully here. -
How can I make it vegan?
This recipe is inherently vegan! Just ensure that the broth you’re using is vegetable-based. -
What can I serve alongside it?
This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread, a fresh salad, or even some homemade focaccia for a complete meal. -
Is there a way to make it creamier?
For a creamier version, blend part of the soup and return it to the pot, or add a splash of coconut cream or cashew cream before serving. -
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This soup is great for batch cooking. Just make sure your pot is large enough.
Conclusion
As you take that first comforting sip of Italian Penicillin Soup, let it transport you straight to the heart of Italy. This dish isn’t just about nourishment; it’s about love, connection, and the stories shared around the table. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your kitchen traditions, bringing warmth and smiles to your family dinner nights. Grab your apron and start simmering—your happiest moments await!
Contents
Italian Penicillin Soup
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil an essential Italian flavor, adding richness and depth
- 1 medium onion, chopped creating the base of flavor and sweetness
- 2 cloves garlic, minced bringing that aromatic kick that fills your kitchen
- 3 medium carrots, sliced sweet and earthy, adding texture and color
- 3 stalks celery, chopped a crisp addition for freshness
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes juicy bursts of flavor that brighten the soup
- 4 cups vegetable broth the heart of the soup, rich and nourishing
Seasoning and Pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano a fragrant herb that screams Italian cooking
- 1 leaf bay leaf adding subtle layers of flavor (make sure to remove before serving!)
- to taste Salt and pepper basic but essential, enhancing all the beautiful flavors
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini) for a hearty bite that fills you up
Vegetable Additions
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale a nutritious and vibrant touch
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. As the oil shimmers, add the chopped onion and sauté until it softens and becomes translucent—about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant oils.
- Add the sliced carrots and chopped celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies begin to soften.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juice, then add the vegetable broth, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Cooking
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add in the small pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Just before serving, fold in the fresh spinach or kale, letting it wilt down and brighten the entire soup.
- Remove the bay leaf, taste for seasoning, and serve piping hot!
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest