Italian Penicillin Soup, Easy & Comforting Soup

 

Craving a warm hug in a bowl? Our Italian Penicillin Soup is the answer! This easy and comforting soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, perfect for a chilly evening or when you’re feeling under the weather. Inspired by classic Italian flavors, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this delicious and healthy recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Penicillin Soup

This Italian Penicillin Soup is more than just delicious; it’s incredibly beneficial! Here are some reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:

• Ready in under 45 minutes
• Packed with comforting Italian flavors
• A great way to use leftover chicken or turkey
• Budget-friendly and uses simple ingredients
• Full of vitamins and nutrients from vegetables and broth
• Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins
• Perfect for meal prepping or batch cooking

This soup is simple enough for a beginner cook, yet satisfying enough for even the most discerning palate. The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort!

Ingredients Needed for Your Soup

Here’s everything you need to make this soothing Italian Penicillin Soup. Don’t worry if you need to make a swap or two, we will cover that below!

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped (about 150g / 1 cup)
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped (about 100g / 1 cup)
• 2 celery stalks, chopped (about 100g / 1 cup)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth (2 liters)
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained (about 400g)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup ditalini pasta (or other small pasta) (about 100g)
• 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (or turkey) (about 150g)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving (about 50g)
• 2 cups chopped fresh spinach (about 60g)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

For the freshest flavor, use high-quality olive oil. Feel free to use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available – just make sure to squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the soup. Toast your oregano and basil for about 30 seconds in a dry pan before adding them to the soup to bring out their aromas.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Hearty and Comforting Cabbage Soup – Another bowl of comfort for you.

Essential Equipment List

Having the right equipment makes this Italian Penicillin Soup a breeze to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for simmering the soup and evenly distributing heat.
• Cutting board and knife: For chopping the vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving the soup.

A good quality pot is key for even cooking and preventing scorching. Don’t have a large pot? Use two smaller ones!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Easy

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Easily scale this Italian Penicillin Soup recipe up for a crowd or halve it for a cozy night in!

Step-by-Step Instructions to cook this Italian Penicillin Soup

Follow these simple steps to create your own bowl of comfort!

Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Cooking the vegetables until softened helps to build a flavorful base for your soup.

Add Garlic and Spices

1. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. A fragrant aroma is a great sign!

Simmer the Soup Base

1. Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

Simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If the soup is too acidic, add a pinch of sugar.

Cook the Pasta

1. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

Make sure not to overcook the pasta; al dente is best to prevent a mushy texture.

Add Chicken and Parmesan

1. Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and Parmesan cheese.
2. Cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.

The Parmesan adds a lovely richness to the soup, while the chicken brings in protein and heartiness.

Add Spinach and Season

1. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Spinach wilts quickly, so don’t overcook it. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve and Enjoy!

1. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Offer lemon wedges on the side, if desired.

Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a bright finish!

CHECK OUT: Creamy Chickpea and Red Lentil Curry – A savory alternative you might enjoy.

Tips for Success

Here are some tips to help you make the best Italian Penicillin Soup every time:

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook it al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Taste and adjust seasoning: Salt and pepper are your best friends. Adjust to your liking.
• Use quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good broth make a big difference.
• Toast the spices: Toasting oregano and basil in a dry pan unlocks their full flavor potential.

Pro tip: Save time by using pre-chopped vegetables or rotisserie chicken!

Variations & Substitutions

Want to customize this Italian Penicillin Soup? Here are some delicious variations:

• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add beans for protein.
• Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or rice.

Feel free to experiment and make this soup your own! You can add kale or other vegetables!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Italian Penicillin Soup

Complete your meal with these tasty pairings:

• Crusty bread: Perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Side salad: A light, refreshing salad complements the richness of the soup.
• Grilled cheese sandwich: A classic combination for ultimate comfort.

This soup is perfect for a cozy night in or a casual gathering with friends and family!

Health Benefits of our soup

This Italian Penicillin Soup is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:

• Chicken broth: Provides hydration and electrolytes.
• Vegetables: Offer essential vitamins and minerals.
• Chicken: A great source of lean protein.
• Spinach: Rich in iron and antioxidants.

This soup is a nutritious and comforting meal that supports overall well-being. One serving gives you all the vitamins you need to feel great!

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to store and reheat your Italian Penicillin Soup for the best results:

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
• Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Cool completely before storing to prevent spoilage. Reheating in a pot retains more flavor than the microwave!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any small pasta shape, such as elbow macaroni, orzo, or small shells.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Sauté the vegetables first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add beans or lentils for protein.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe for a larger crowd. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How long does the soup last?

The soup will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator or 2 months in the freezer.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will last up to 2 months.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g

Exact nutrition facts depend on the specific ingredients used. Consider these numbers estimates.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore for Soup Lovers

Looking for more delightful recipes? Check out these fantastic options:

• One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles – A comforting and easy meal with simple ingredients.
• Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta – Another quick and flavorful pasta dish with chicken and Parmesan.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – A rich and creamy pasta dish with a delicious garlic Parmesan sauce.

Conclusion

Our Italian Penicillin Soup is quick, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect remedy for a chilly day or a comforting meal when you need it most. Whip it up tonight and tag us with your masterpiece!

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