Growing up, my nonna’s Italian Penicillin Soup was a staple in our household. The fragrant aroma of simmering vegetables and herbs would fill the air, instantly transporting me back to her cozy kitchen. There was something so soothing and restorative about that soup – it was like a warm hug on a chilly day. Even as an adult, whenever I need a little bit of comfort and nourishment, I find myself craving the flavors of that beloved Italian Penicillin Soup.
Why This Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Italian Penicillin Soup
What makes this Italian Penicillin Soup recipe so special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key is in the slow-simmered broth, which is infused with a medley of aromatic vegetables and herbs. The onion, garlic, carrots, and celery create a robust, savory base, while the bay leaf, thyme, and oregano lend a warm, herbal note. The result is a soup that’s both comforting and deeply flavorful.
But the true genius of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few humble ingredients, you can create a soup that’s truly extraordinary. It’s the kind of dish that will make your taste buds dance and your soul feel nourished.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Italian Penicillin Soup, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – This forms the foundation of the soup, adding richness and depth of flavor.
- 1 onion, diced – The onion provides the aromatic base, adding sweetness and complexity to the broth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is a must-have in any Italian dish, lending its bold, pungent flavor.
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced – Carrots add a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
- 3 celery stalks, sliced – Celery contributes a subtle, earthy flavor and helps to balance the other ingredients.
- 8 cups chicken broth – The broth is the backbone of the soup, providing a rich, savory foundation.
- 1 bay leaf – This fragrant herb infuses the broth with a warm, herbal aroma.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Thyme lends an earthy, slightly minty flavor that complements the other herbs.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Oregano adds a touch of sweetness and a pleasant, slightly peppery note.
- Salt and pepper to taste – These simple seasonings help to enhance and balance the overall flavor.
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (optional) – The chicken adds a delicious protein boost, making the soup even more satisfying.
- Grated parmesan cheese for serving – A sprinkle of parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami-rich finish to the soup.
Step-by-Step Italian Penicillin Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Italian Penicillin Soup
This Italian Penicillin Soup is a breeze to make, with a total time of just 45 minutes (15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking). All you’ll need is a large pot or Dutch oven, a cutting board, a sharp knife, and a few basic kitchen tools.
1- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
2- Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute, taking care not to let the garlic burn.
3- Next, add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
4- Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5- If you’re using cooked, shredded chicken, stir it into the soup now. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6- Ladle the hot Italian Penicillin Soup into bowls and top with a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese. Serve and enjoy this comforting, nourishing soup.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor. Homemade broth is ideal, but a good-quality store-bought variety will work just as well.
- Don’t be afraid to let the soup simmer for a bit longer to really develop the flavors. The longer it cooks, the more the herbs and vegetables will infuse the broth.
- For a heartier meal, add cooked, shredded chicken or even a handful of small pasta, like ditalini or orzo.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can use an immersion blender to purée a portion of the soup. Just be sure to leave some chunky vegetables for texture.
Serving and Storing Your Italian Penicillin Soup
Perfect Pairings for Italian Penicillin Soup
This Italian Penicillin Soup is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. For a light and refreshing meal, serve it with a crisp green salad and a crusty loaf of Italian bread for dipping. If you’re looking for a more substantial option, try pairing the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich or a simple side of roasted vegetables.
When it comes to beverages, a glass of dry white wine or a light, citrusy craft beer complement the flavors of the soup beautifully. For a cozy, comforting experience, pour a steaming mug of hot tea or coffee to sip alongside your bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Italian Penicillin Soup is the perfect dish to make in advance, as the flavors only improve over time. To store, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
For longer-term storage, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a bit of headspace to allow for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.
Whether you’re enjoying a bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup right away or reheating it later, be sure to garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh parmesan cheese for that extra touch of flavor and creaminess.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Italian Penicillin Soup
Creative Italian Penicillin Soup Variations
While the classic Italian Penicillin Soup recipe is delicious as-is, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. For a heartier version, you can add cooked, diced potatoes or a handful of small pasta, like ditalini or orzo. Experimenting with different herbs, such as rosemary or basil, can also lend a unique twist to the flavor profile.
In the summer, try swapping out the chicken broth for a lighter, tomato-based broth and adding fresh, seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. For a touch of heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of your favorite hot sauce.
Making Italian Penicillin Soup Diet-Friendly
Looking to make your Italian Penicillin Soup a bit more diet-friendly? No problem! You can easily adapt the recipe to accommodate various dietary restrictions and preferences.
For a gluten-free version, simply omit the pasta or use a gluten-free alternative, such as quinoa or lentils. To make it vegan, replace the chicken broth with a high-quality vegetable broth and skip the parmesan cheese topping. Instead, you can sprinkle on some nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
For a low-carb or keto-friendly twist, swap the carrots and celery for other low-carb veggies, like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also reduce the amount of broth and add more shredded chicken or a handful of chopped kale or chard to boost the protein and nutrient content.
No matter how you choose to customize your Italian Penicillin Soup, the end result will be a comforting, nourishing dish that’s sure to satisfy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of meat in this soup, like beef or turkey?
A: Absolutely! While the classic Italian Penicillin Soup calls for chicken, you can easily substitute other types of cooked, shredded meat. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as the different meats may require different preparation methods.
Q: How long does it take to make this soup?
A: This Italian Penicillin Soup recipe has a total time of 45 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time. The recipe is designed to be quick and easy to make, making it the perfect weeknight meal.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, Italian Penicillin Soup is a great make-ahead dish. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Italian Penicillin Soup recipe yields 6 servings. If you need to serve a larger crowd, you can easily double or triple the recipe to accommodate more people.
Q: What if my soup is too thin or too thick?
A: If your Italian Penicillin Soup is too thin, you can thicken it by using an immersion blender to purée a portion of the vegetables and broth. This will create a creamier, more substantial texture. Conversely, if the soup is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a bit more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Italian Penicillin Soup
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Italian Penicillin Soup is a nourishing and comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly day. The blend of herbs, garlic, and tender vegetables in a rich broth creates a soothing and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 3 celery stalks, sliced
– 8 cups chicken broth
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (optional)
– Grated parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and sauté for 5 minutes, until translucent.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the carrots and celery, and sauté for 5 more minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the bay leaf, thyme, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
7. If using cooked chicken, add it to the soup and heat through.
8. Serve the Italian Penicillin Soup hot, garnished with grated parmesan cheese.
Notes
This soup can be easily customized by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. For a heartier meal, serve with crusty bread or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Conclusion
This Italian Penicillin Soup is the ultimate comfort food, a true hug in a bowl. With its simple, yet flavorful ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s no wonder why this recipe has become a go-to for so many home cooks.
Whether you’re looking for a nourishing weeknight dinner or a soothing meal to enjoy on a chilly day, this Italian Penicillin Soup is sure to hit the spot. So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think in the comments below. I can’t wait to hear how you and your family enjoy this cozy, delicious soup!
