Italian Penicillin Soup: 7 Soothing Ingredients to Savor

Name: Italian Penicillin Soup: 7 Soothing Ingredients to Savor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 cup pasta (e.g., ditalini); 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

By:

Christina R. Jones

October 10, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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There’s something incredibly soothing about a warm bowl of Italian penicillin soup, especially on a chilly evening. The aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through your kitchen is like a warm hug, wrapping you in comfort. I remember the first time I made this soup; it was a rainy day, and I was feeling a bit under the weather. I stumbled upon this recipe, often dubbed “Italian penicillin,” and decided to give it a whirl. The moment I took my first sip, I felt an instant lift – it was as if the flavors were working to heal my soul. This soup, packed with wholesome ingredients, brings together the savory goodness of chicken broth, fresh vegetables, and hearty pasta. It’s quick to prepare, and the best part? You can whip it up in just about 45 minutes! Whether you’re battling a cold or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it time and time again.

italian penicillin soup - detail 1

Ingredients List

To make this delightful Italian penicillin soup, you’ll need the following ingredients. Gather them all beforehand to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup pasta (e.g., ditalini)
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Each ingredient contributes to the comforting flavor profile of this soup, making it a nourishing meal you’ll love to come back to. Don’t hesitate to choose high-quality chicken broth and fresh vegetables for the best results! Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Italian Penicillin Soup

Making this comforting Italian penicillin soup is as straightforward as it is satisfying. Let’s break it down step by step so you can whip up this soul-warming dish with confidence. I’m so excited for you to try this!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, grab a large pot and place it on the stove over medium heat. You want to warm up your olive oil, so pour in 2 tablespoons and let it heat up for a minute or so. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers just a bit. Careful not to let it smoke, though!

Now, it’s time to add your chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. This is where the magic begins! Stir occasionally to prevent sticking – nobody wants burnt bits in their soup.

Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute. You’ll want to keep an eye on it because garlic can go from perfect to burnt in a heartbeat! The smell will be incredible, and you’ll feel like a chef in an Italian kitchen. Yum!

Now, let’s bring in the liquid gold. Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth, followed by the can of diced tomatoes (with all the juices – don’t waste any of that flavor!). Add the teaspoon of dried oregano at this point, along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir and let it come to a boil. It should only take a few minutes.

Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows all those beautiful flavors to meld together. You can take a moment to sip on some wine or just enjoy the lovely aroma filling your kitchen!

After 15 minutes, it’s pasta time! Add in 1 cup of your chosen pasta (I love ditalini, but use whatever you have). Cook it for about 8-10 minutes, or until it’s al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking together. If the soup looks a little thick, feel free to add a splash more broth or water.

Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. When it’s just right, it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for that pop of color and flavor. And voilà! You’ve got yourself a comforting bowl of Italian penicillin soup that’s ready to warm your heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian penicillin soup is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! Here are a few reasons why this recipe will become a beloved favorite in your kitchen:

Quick Preparation: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious, homemade soup on the table in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Comforting Flavors: The warm combination of garlic, herbs, and fresh vegetables creates a symphony of flavors that soothes the soul, making it the ultimate comfort food.
Healthiness: Packed with nutritious ingredients like veggies and chicken broth, this soup is low in fat yet high in flavor. It’s a great way to nourish your body while enjoying a tasty meal.
Versatility: Feel free to customize it! Add your favorite veggies or even some cooked chicken for an extra protein boost. This soup easily adapts to what you have on hand.
Freezing Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for those days when you need a quick meal. It reheats beautifully and tastes just as good!

Trust me, once you experience the cozy goodness of this Italian penicillin soup, it’ll be your go-to recipe whenever you need a little pick-me-up!

Nutritional Information

As with any recipe, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose, so keep that in mind! Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect from a serving of this delightful Italian penicillin soup:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 180
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 400mg
Cholesterol: 10mg

This soup not only warms your soul but also nourishes your body with wholesome ingredients. Enjoy the delicious flavors without the guilt! Keep in mind that these values are approximate, so be sure to calculate based on exact ingredients if you’re tracking your intake closely.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Italian penicillin soup turns out absolutely perfect every time, here are some handy tips that I’ve gathered from my own kitchen adventures. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will elevate your soup-making game!

Ingredient Selection

Always use the freshest ingredients you can find! Fresh vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the soup’s overall texture. When selecting your chicken broth, I highly recommend going for low-sodium versions. This way, you can control the saltiness and make it healthier without compromising on flavor. If you have homemade broth, even better! It adds a richness that store-bought can’t compete with.

Cooking Techniques

Don’t rush the sautéing step! Allowing your onions, carrots, and celery to soften and develop a bit of sweetness is so crucial. This foundational step adds depth to the flavor of your soup. And remember, when you add garlic, keep a close eye on it. Cooking it just until fragrant (about a minute) prevents it from burning and turning bitter.

When it’s time to add the pasta, make sure to stir frequently. This helps the pasta cook evenly and prevents it from clumping. If the soup starts to thicken too much, feel free to add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Don’t be afraid to taste along the way; adjusting seasoning at different stages can really make a difference in flavor!

Storage Advice

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps preserve the flavors and prevents the soup from getting mushy when reheating. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or freeze it for later enjoyment. Just remember to leave a little space at the top of your containers, as liquids expand when frozen!

When reheating, do it gently on the stovetop over low heat. This helps maintain the soup’s texture and prevents burning. Stir occasionally, and if it seems a bit thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Enjoy your delicious Italian penicillin soup again, and let every bowl remind you of that cozy warmth!

Variations

One of the things I love most about Italian penicillin soup is its versatility. You can easily switch things up based on what you have at home or what flavors you’re in the mood for. Let’s dive into some delicious variations that can enhance this comforting dish!

Herb Twists

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a delightful twist. Fresh basil brings a sweet and slightly peppery flavor that brightens up the soup beautifully. Just toss in a handful of chopped basil leaves towards the end of cooking for that fresh burst. Thyme, on the other hand, adds an earthy aroma that complements the savory broth perfectly. A teaspoon of dried thyme works wonders if you’re using dried herbs.

Spice It Up

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper while sautéing the veggies. This adds a lovely warmth that can really elevate your soup. Just be careful to start with a little and adjust to your spice preference. If you want to take it a step further, you can even add a couple of diced jalapeños for a more significant kick!

Veggie Additions

Feel free to boost the vegetable content! Spinach or kale can be tossed in during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition and a pop of color. You could also add bell peppers or zucchini for a different texture and flavor profile. Just dice them up and throw them in with the other veggies at the beginning. The more, the merrier in this comforting soup!

Protein Power

If you want to turn this soup into a heartier meal, try adding some cooked chicken, sausage, or even beans. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut if you’re in a hurry. Just stir it in during the last few minutes to heat through. For a vegetarian option, white beans or chickpeas can add protein and make the soup even more filling!

Remember, the beauty of this Italian penicillin soup is that it’s forgiving and adaptable. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients – you’ll discover new combinations that you and your family will love. Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover Italian penicillin soup properly is key to keeping all those delicious flavors intact for your next meal. Here’s how to do it right!

First, let your soup cool down completely before you store it. This helps prevent condensation from forming in your container, which can make the soup watery. Once it’s cool, transfer the soup into airtight containers. I love using glass containers because they’re durable and don’t retain odors, but any airtight option will work.

You can keep the soup in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you think you won’t finish it within that time, don’t worry! This soup freezes beautifully. Just make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container since liquids expand when frozen. It’s also a good idea to label your containers with the date so you can keep track of how long they’ve been in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, reheating it is a breeze. I recommend gently warming it on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. If the soup seems a bit thick after freezing, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Trust me, with these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your comforting Italian penicillin soup just as much the second time around! Happy eating!

FAQ Section

Q1. What is Italian penicillin soup, and why is it called that?
Italian penicillin soup is a comforting, flavorful soup made with wholesome ingredients like chicken broth, fresh vegetables, and pasta. It’s affectionately dubbed “penicillin” because of its healing properties, with many people claiming it helps them feel better when they’re under the weather. The combination of savory flavors and nutritious ingredients makes it a go-to dish for those chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up!

Q2. Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian or vegan version of Italian penicillin soup, simply substitute the chicken broth with a vegetable broth. You can also skip the pasta or use whole grain or legume-based pasta for added nutrition. For protein, consider adding beans or lentils to keep it hearty and satisfying. You’ll still get all the comforting flavors, just without the meat!

Q3. How can I make Italian penicillin soup spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, there are plenty of ways to spice up your Italian penicillin soup! Adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper while sautéing the veggies is a great start. You can also toss in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Just be sure to adjust the spice level to your taste – a little goes a long way!

Q4. How long can I store leftovers of this soup?
You can store leftover Italian penicillin soup in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, this soup freezes wonderfully! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating it on the stovetop is the best way to preserve those delicious flavors!

Q5. Can I add different vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! One of the best things about Italian penicillin soup is its versatility. Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables – zucchini, bell peppers, or even leafy greens like spinach or kale work beautifully. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the vegetables you choose, so they’re tender but still vibrant!