Italian Penicillin Soup

Table of Contents

There’s something inherently magical about a simmering pot of soup wafting its warm embrace around your kitchen. It instantly transforms a regular day into something a bit more special. Italian Penicillin Soup holds a dear place in my heart—one cozy evening, I found myself feeling under the weather. As I rummaged through my pantry, the enticing smell of garlic mingling with fresh veggies had me channeling my inner Italian grandma, lovingly crafting what I like to call “a hug in a bowl.” That first spoonful defined comfort: the tangy burst of tomatoes paired with the nurturing greens, rich with flavors and aromas that just envelop you. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this soup is dubbed as penicillin—even if it’s not quite a remedy, you’ll feel revitalized and nourished through every cozy sip.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Quick: Whip it up in about 30 minutes for a satisfying meal.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with veggies, it’s like a wellness potion in your bowl!
• Flavorful: Herbs and spices create a robust flavor profile that dances on your palate.
• Crowd-Pleasing: This soup is perfect for sharing; everyone at the table will be asking for seconds!
• Flexible: Use whatever veggies you have on hand for a personalized twist.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a beautiful base flavor for your soup!
• 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and a comforting aroma as it softens.
• 2 carrots, diced: For color and natural sweetness.
• 2 celery stalks, diced: A classic flavor foundation; don’t skip these!
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Because what’s Italian food without garlic?
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A must for that Italian flair; it’s aromatic and delicious.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings an earthy depth that complements the veggies.
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes: Bright and tangy, they’re the heart of this soup.
• 6 cups vegetable broth: The base that ties everything together—feel free to use homemade or store-bought!
• 1 cup pasta (e.g., ditalini or small shells): Perfect for soaking up all the goodness.
• 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped: Adds a pop of color and vital nutrients.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for elevating the flavors, don’t be shy!
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving): A finishing touch that adds creaminess and umami.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Heat the Olive Oil

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Let it warm up until it glistens, like sunshine in your kitchen.

2. Sauté Your Veggies

Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they’re softened and aromatic, creating a wonderful base that fills your kitchen with inviting scents.

3. Spice it Up

Stir in the garlic, oregano, and thyme. Cook for another minute, letting those herbaceous notes blossom in the air, teasing your appetite.

4. Tomato Time

Add the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil, making sure the colors swirl together beautifully.

5. Pasta Party

Stir in the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. The noodles will absorb all that delightful flavor as they cook.

6. Green Goodness

Add in the chopped kale or spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted. Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors!

7. Season to Perfection

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Now’s the time to adjust and make it your own!

8. Serve It Up

Dish out your beautiful soup hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that final cheesy flourish.

Pro Tips for Success

• Feel free to adjust: If you love extra greens or a thicker soup, add more kale or reduce the broth!
• Stir occasionally: This prevents sticking, especially as the pasta cooks.
• Don’t skip the cheese: It really rounds out the dish with flavor!
• Taste as you go: Trust your instincts on seasoning; each batch is unique!

Flavor Variations

• Seasonal veggies: Swap in zucchini or bell peppers based on what’s fresh!
• Protein boost: Toss in some cooked chicken or chickpeas for added heartiness.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a kick or a splash of balsamic vinegar for tanginess.

Serving Suggestions

Delight your senses by serving the soup alongside a crusty slice of garlic bread or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Pair with a light Italian wine, or if you’re feeling cozy, a cup of warm chamomile tea. Presentation means a lot, so serve in rustic bowls with extra Parmesan on the side for your guests to sprinkle as they desire.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This soup is perfect for meal prep! You can chop all your veggies in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Once cooked, let the soup cool, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps wonderfully for about 3-4 days, and the flavors only deepen with time.

Leftovers

Revamp those leftovers as a hearty lunch! Add some toasted bread on the side for a bit of crunch, or toss in more fresh greens for an extra nutrient boost. You could also mix in a splash of cream for a decadent twist!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this soup! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or immerse your sealed bag in warm water for a quicker solution.

Reheating

For best results, reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring gently to bring everything back to life. You can also pop it in the microwave in a covered bowl, stirring every 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use whatever pasta shapes you have on hand, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is this soup safe for freezing?
Yes, it freezes beautifully! Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! If using fresh, chop about 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes and add them with the broth for a fresher taste.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
This recipe is already vegetarian! Just use vegetable broth for the base.

Final Thoughts

As you cuddle up with a bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup, remember that cooking is all about the love infused into each step. So go ahead and stir, sip, and savor, knowing you’ve created something heartfelt and nourishing. Let the warmth of this soup comfort you on even the rainiest of days. I can’t wait for you to revel in this cozy classic, and I’d love to hear how it warms your heart! Love ya, happy cooking!