There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially on those chillier evenings when life feels a bit overwhelming. That feeling is precisely what Italian Penicillin Soup brings to the table—a delightful blend of fresh vegetables and comforting pastina that reminds me of home. This cozy dish, rich in flavor and texture, isn’t just a remedy for the soul; it’s a nourishing hug in a bowl.
After a hectic day or when you’re nursing a cold, this soup is incredibly easy to whip up using ingredients you likely have on hand. Forget takeout! Instead, let the soothing aroma of olive oil, garlic, and simmering broth fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather. Whether you’re looking for a vegan-friendly option or a gluten-free cozy meal, this Italian classic adapts effortlessly to meet your needs. Join me in creating this wholesome soup, perfect for reviving those comforting culinary moments in your home!
Why love Italian Penicillin Soup?
Comforting, Nutrient-Packed Goodness: This Italian Penicillin Soup is loaded with fresh vegetables, providing essential vitamins and a nourishing boost.
Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can create this delicious dish in no time.
Versatile Options: Adapt it to your dietary needs—make it gluten-free or vegan without sacrificing flavor!
Crowd-Pleasing Aroma: The enticing scent of garlic, olive oil, and simmering broth will have friends and family flocking to the table.
Perfect for Leftovers: Great for meal prep, this soup stores well and remains satisfying for days. Want more cozy recipes? Check out simple homemade soups.
Italian Penicillin Soup Ingredients
For the Base
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and flavor to sauté the vegetables. Substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
• Carrots – Provide sweetness and color. Use parsnips as a substitute for a different taste.
• Yellow Onion – Adds depth to the soup’s flavor. Can be replaced with shallots if needed.
• Garlic – Delivers aromatic qualities and savoriness. Substitute with garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
• Celery – Contributes crunch and a mild flavor base. Can omit if not available.
For the Broth
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning. Adjust to taste.
• Parmesan Rind – Adds umami and depth to the broth. Optional; can substitute with nutritional yeast in vegetarian versions.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth – Provides the soup’s base flavor. Use homemade broth for richer taste, or a low-sodium option for health-conscious recipes.
For the Soup
• Pastina (or small pasta shape) – Offers texture and a filling aspect to the soup. Alternatives include orzo, stelline, or ditalini.
• Lemon – Brightens flavor. Use more or less according to personal taste.
For Garnishing
• Freshly Grated Parmesan – For garnish and extra flavor at serving. Optional; can leave out for vegan versions.
• Chopped Parsley – Adds freshness and color as a garnish. Optional; can use other fresh herbs like basil.
How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup
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Cook Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add carrots, onion, celery, garlic, salt, and pepper; sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly browned and aromatic.
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Simmer Soup: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the parmesan rind. Bring to a gentle boil, cover, and let it simmer on medium-low for 25-30 minutes until the vegetables are very soft and tender.
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Puree Vegetables: Carefully remove the parmesan rind from the pot. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy, creating a comforting base.
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Cook Pasta: Stir in the pastina and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes until the pasta is al-dente. Once cooked, turn off the heat and let it rest for a moment.
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Add Lemon: Squeeze in fresh lemon juice, adjusting the quantity to suit your taste. This will brighten the overall flavor of your soup!
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated parmesan, black pepper, and chopped parsley for a beautiful finish.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for a delightful dipping experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Italian Penicillin Soup Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious possibilities and make this recipe your own!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute pastina with gluten-free pasta options like rice noodles or quinoa pasta for a safe alternative.
- Vegan Delight: Omit the parmesan rind and use vegetable broth, boosting flavor with nutritional yeast for a cheesy essence.
- Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of coconut milk after blending for an extra creamy and tropical twist.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne during the cooking process for a hearty kick of heat.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or time instead of parsley for a unique flavor profile that brightens the soup.
- Nutty Twist: Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for added crunch and a nutty flavor, complementing the velvetiness of the soup.
- Zesty Lemon: Incorporate lemon zest along with the juice to heighten the citrus notes for a refreshing finish.
- Protein Power: Toss in cooked lentils or diced chicken to make this soup a heartier dish, adding both substance and satisfaction.
How to Store and Freeze Italian Penicillin Soup
Fridge: Store your Italian Penicillin Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact while maintaining freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the blended soup base (without pasta) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating for the best texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add broth as needed to adjust consistency.
Separating Pasta: If storing leftovers, keep the pasta separate to prevent it from becoming mushy. This way, you can enjoy your soup at its best!
Make Ahead Options
Italian Penicillin Soup is the perfect choice for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can chop the vegetables (carrots, onion, celery, and garlic) up to 24 hours ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The soup itself can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the soup gently on the stove, stir in the pastina, and cook until al-dente, adjusting the seasoning as needed. By prepping ahead, you’ll have a cozy, nourishing bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup ready to soothe your soul with minimal effort after a busy day!
Expert Tips for Italian Penicillin Soup
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Ensure Soft Veggies: Before blending, make sure your vegetables are very soft. If they’re still firm, give them additional simmer time for a smoother soup.
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Separate Storage: For leftovers, store the pasta and soup separately. This will keep the pasta from getting mushy and maintain the soup’s texture.
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Thicker Consistency: If your soup is too thick, don’t hesitate to add 1-2 cups more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
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Protein Options: Consider adding cooked chicken or beans for a heartier meal. This adapts the Italian Penicillin Soup to make it more filling and nutritious.
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Herb Alternatives: Feel free to switch up the garnishing herbs. Basil or thyme can offer delightful variations, so have fun with it!
What to Serve with Italian Penicillin Soup?
There’s nothing quite like experiencing a complete meal when enjoying a tasty bowl of soup.
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Crusty Bread: Freshly baked or toasted bread is perfect for dipping, soaking up all that nutritious broth.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad brings a refreshing crunch that balances the creamy texture of the soup, enhancing the overall experience.
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Garlic Butter Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks coated in garlic butter add an irresistible savory flavor that’s hard to resist alongside the soup.
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Parmesan Crisps: These cheesy crackers contrast beautifully with the soup’s smoothness, offering a delightful crunch with every bite.
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Roasted Vegetables: Earthy roasted veggies enhance the wholesome goodness of the soup, providing varied flavors and textures to the meal.
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Herbed Rice: A side of fluffy herbed rice creates a satisfying base, complementing the savory soup with a gentle, herby touch.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: Adding a bit of crunch, these chips serve as a perfect companion to the soup, enhancing texture while being fun to snack on.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink with a hint of citrus that echoes the soup’s lemon notes, making for a lively pairing.
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Apple Crisp: Finish your meal with a warm, sweet dessert that harmonizes with the comfort theme, leaving you cozy and satisfied.
Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of vegetables should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use fresh, vibrant vegetables. Carrots, celery, and onions are essential, as they provide a lovely aromatic base. Look for carrots that are firm and bright orange, with no dark spots, and choose celery that’s crunchy and green. If you’re looking to switch things up, parsnips can be a delightful substitute for a sweeter flavor.
How should I store leftover Italian Penicillin Soup?
Very! Store the Italian Penicillin Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the pasta from becoming mushy, I recommend storing the soup and pasta separately. This way, you can enjoy it fresh on each reheating.
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Can I freeze Italian Penicillin Soup?
Yes! I often make a big batch and freeze some for later. To freeze, pour the blended soup base (without the pasta) into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room at the top for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding freshly cooked pasta for that perfect texture.
What if my soup turns out too thick?
Not a problem at all! If your Italian Penicillin Soup turns out too thick, simply stir in 1 to 2 cups of additional broth until you reach your preferred consistency. If you’re cooking the pasta directly in the soup, it can absorb a lot of liquid, so adjust as needed!
Is there a way to make this soup vegan or gluten-free?
Yes, indeed! To make the soup vegan, simply omit the parmesan rind and use nutritional yeast instead for that umami flavor. For gluten-free options, swap the pastina for gluten-free pasta shapes like quinoa or brown rice pasta. You’re supporting your dietary needs without compromising on that comforting taste!
How can I make this suitable for my kids or picky eaters?
The more the merrier! You can easily adjust the flavors to suit your kids’ tastes. Blend the soup until smooth to create a creamy texture that feels friendly. You can also add small, bite-sized veggies they enjoy, or let them sprinkle their own cheese or herbs on top to make it fun and interactive.
Italian Penicillin Soup: A Cozy Bowl of Comfort Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add carrots, onion, celery, garlic, salt, and pepper; sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly browned and aromatic.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the parmesan rind. Bring to a gentle boil, cover, and let it simmer on medium-low for 25-30 minutes until the vegetables are very soft and tender.
- Carefully remove the parmesan rind from the pot. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the pastina and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes until the pasta is al-dente. Once cooked, turn off the heat and let it rest for a moment.
- Squeeze in fresh lemon juice, adjusting the quantity to suit your taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated parmesan, black pepper, and chopped parsley.