Italian Penicillin Soup, Easy & Comforting Soup

 

Ever feel a cold coming on and crave something warm and comforting? This Italian Penicillin Soup, Easy & Comforting Soup is your answer! It’s packed with nourishing ingredients, ready in under an hour, and tastes like a hug in a bowl. Inspired by classic Italian flavors, this soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a soothing remedy when you’re feeling under the weather. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Penicillin Soup

This Italian Penicillin Soup is bound to become a family favorite! Here’s why:

• Ready in Under 45 Minutes: A speedy and satisfying meal.
• Packed with Nutrients: Loaded with vitamins from veggies and protein from chicken.
• Comfort Food at its Finest: Warm, soothing, and undeniably delicious.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt to your dietary needs and preferences.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients.
• Less Cleanup: One-pot wonder for minimal dishwashing.
• Aromatic and Flavorful: The oregano and garlic create an irresistible aroma.
• Naturally Gluten-Free Option: Simply use gluten-free pasta!

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of this soothing soup. Remember, fresh, high-quality ingredients will always elevate the flavor!

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and adding richness. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred.
• 1 large onion, chopped: Adds a sweet and savory base to the soup (about 150g/1 cup).
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Bring sweetness and color to the soup (approximately 100g/1 cup). Choose firm, bright carrots.
• 2 celery stalks, chopped: Contribute to the aromatic foundation (about 100g/1 cup). Look for crisp, firm stalks.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent and delicious flavor.
• 8 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth): The liquid base of the soup. Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness (about 2 liters).
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Provides acidity and depth of flavor (about 400g).
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that adds warmth and aroma. Toast it lightly to unlock flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.
• 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni): Adds heartiness to the soup (about 100g).
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (or chickpeas for a vegetarian option): The protein component. Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience or chickpeas for a plant-based version.
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley: For freshness and vibrant color. Find fresh herbs at the farmers’ market.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: To season the soup to your liking.
• Lemon wedges, for serving: A squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors and adds a zesty touch.

Essential Equipment List

Make sure you have these essential tools on hand before you start cooking:

• • Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for simmering the soup evenly. A heavy-bottomed pot retains heat best.
  • Knife: For chopping the vegetables.
  • Cutting board: To protect your countertop while chopping.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: To accurately measure the ingredients.

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• Ladle: For serving the soup.

Recipe Details

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a comforting and flavorful Italian Penicillin Soup!

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step builds a flavorful base for the soup. CHECK OUT: Hearty and Comforting Cabbage Soup – A robust, veggie-filled delight!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Aromatics

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma should fill your kitchen.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) and add the diced tomatoes, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If the soup seems too acidic, add a pinch of sugar.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Add Protein and Finish

Stir in the cooked shredded chicken (or chickpeas) and heat through. Finally, stir in the chopped fresh parsley and season with salt and black pepper to taste. YOU MIGHT LOVE: Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A cheesy, creamy twist!

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with lemon wedges for squeezing over the soup. The lemon brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing touch. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your Italian Penicillin Soup turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Nobody likes mushy pasta! Cook it al dente for the best texture.
• Use good quality broth: The broth is the base of the soup, so use a flavorful broth.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste: Taste the soup throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Add a parmesan rind: For extra depth, simmer a parmesan rind in the broth and remove it before serving.
• Get Creative with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or kale.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to customize your soup? Here are a few ideas:

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

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Italian Penicillin Soup

This soup is a complete meal on its own, but here are some suggestions for pairing:

• Crusty bread: Perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Side salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Grilled cheese sandwich: A classic comfort food combination.
• Non-alcoholic beverage: Iced tea or sparkling water.

Health Benefits

This Italian Penicillin Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! The vegetables provide essential vitamins and fiber, while the chicken (or chickpeas) offers a good source of protein. Plus, the broth helps keep you hydrated. It’s a nourishing and comforting meal that’s good for your body and soul.

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to properly store and reheat your soup to maintain its delicious flavor:

• Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? Here are some common queries about this recipe:

Can I use different vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or kale. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any small pasta shape will work well in this soup. Orzo, small shells, or even broken spaghetti are great options.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Simply use vegetable broth and substitute the chicken with chickpeas or other beans.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is great for making ahead of time. The flavors will meld together even more as it sits.

How do I avoid mushy pasta?

Add the pasta towards the end of the cooking time and cook it until al dente. If you’re making the soup ahead of time, you may want to cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Nutritional Information

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

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more comforting and easy recipes? Give these a try!

• Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta – A quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
• Hearty and Comforting Cabbage Soup – A warm and wholesome soup perfect for chilly days.
• Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu – A luxurious and comforting classic dish.

Conclusion

This Italian Penicillin Soup, Easy & Comforting Soup is fast, flavorful, and incredibly soothing. It’s the perfect recipe to have on hand when you need a quick and healthy meal. Whip it up tonight and enjoy a bowl of warmth and goodness! Let us know how it goes – comment below!

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