Italian Penicillin Soup
A comforting bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup, packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, perfect for chilly evenings.
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
Feel free to add a splash of lemon juice right before serving for a zesty finish. This soup is inherently vegan; ensure that the broth is vegetable-based. Make it creamier by blending part of the soup or adding a splash of coconut cream or cashew cream.