Italian Penicillin Soup

A cozy soup to warm the soul, Italian Penicillin Soup is perfect for tough or busy days. This comforting dish combines fresh veggies and pastina, creating a delightful meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a pick-me-up, this soup shines as a universal remedy. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s suitable for various occasions, from family dinners to solo lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting flavors: This soup brings warmth with its rich broth and hearty vegetables.
• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in less than an hour.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish – it fits any meal plan!
• Health benefits: Packed with vitamins from the veggies, it’s nourishing and satisfying.
• Perfect for leftovers: Store it easily for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather some essential tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Immersion blender (or regular blender)
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup and combining all ingredients effectively.
• Immersion blender: Allows for easy pureeing directly in the pot, saving time on cleanup.

Ingredients

A cozy soup to warm the soul. Italian Penicillin Soup with veggies and pastina is the perfect comfort meal for tough or busy days.

Vegetables

• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 3 large carrots (peeled and roughly chopped)
• 1 yellow onion (quartered)
• 5 cloves garlic (peeled)
• 3 ribs celery (halved)

Seasonings

• 1 tsp salt
• black pepper

Broth & Pasta

• parmesan rind (optional)
• 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 ¼ cup pastina (or other small pasta shape)

Garnishes

• 1 lemon (more as desired)
• freshly grated parmesan and black pepper
• drizzle of olive oil (optional)
• chopped parsley (optional)

How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup

Step 1: Cook Vegetables

Add olive oil to a large pot and heat over medium. Add your vegetables, salt, and pepper.
– Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until vegetables are slightly browned.
– To save time, you can skip this step by adding oil and veggies directly to your broth.

Step 2: Simmer Soup

Add the parmesan rind and broth to your pot.
– Cover the pot and turn the heat to high until it reaches a gentle boil.
– Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer covered for 25-30 minutes until vegetables are very soft. Stir occasionally.

Step 3: Puree Vegetables

Remove the parmesan rind from the pot.
– Use an immersion blender to puree the vegetables until smooth. If you don’t have one, transfer the cooked vegetables into a regular heat-safe blender.
– Blend until smooth and return it back to your pot.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

Add your pastina or small pasta into the simmering soup.
– Cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente, stirring occasionally. Turn off the heat afterward.
– If storing leftovers, cook pastina separately and combine with broth just before serving.

Step 5: Add Lemon

Stir in the juice of a full lemon.
– Taste your soup and adjust seasonings or add more lemon juice if desired. For a thinner consistency, stir in additional broth.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle soup into serving bowls.
– Garnish with parmesan, black pepper, and any additional toppings you prefer. Enjoy!

How to Serve Italian Penicillin Soup

Italian Penicillin Soup is not only comforting but also versatile in how you can serve it. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a few delightful accompaniments, this soup can be customized to fit your taste.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the flavors beautifully.

Add a Side Salad

• A fresh mixed green salad drizzled with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with chopped parsley or basil for added color and flavor. It brightens the dish and adds freshness.

Drizzle Extra Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the flavor profile and gives it an elegant finish.

Serve with Cheese

• Grate some extra parmesan cheese on top just before serving for that rich, creamy touch that complements the soup well.

Squeeze of Lemon

• Offering lemon wedges on the side allows guests to brighten their bowl according to their preference, enhancing the overall taste experience.

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How to Perfect Italian Penicillin Soup

To make your Italian Penicillin Soup truly exceptional, pay attention to these handy tips that elevate its flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the soup’s taste and nutritional value. Opt for seasonal produce whenever possible.

• Don’t Skip the Parmesan Rind: Adding a parmesan rind while simmering infuses deep, savory flavors into the broth that you won’t want to miss.

• Control Your Pasta Cooking: For optimal texture, cook pastina separately if you plan to store leftovers. This prevents it from becoming mushy when reheated.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste before serving! A little extra salt or a pinch of pepper can elevate your soup. Don’t forget lemon juice for brightness.

• Experiment with Spices: Try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist. Just a pinch can transform your soup.

• Serve Immediately: For best results, enjoy your soup right after cooking. This ensures all flavors are at their peak freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Penicillin Soup

Serving Italian Penicillin Soup alongside delicious sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread pairs perfectly, allowing you to soak up every last drop of soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a light and flavorful contrast that complements the soup’s richness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and variety to your meal while keeping it healthy.
4. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese brings a hearty element that pairs beautifully with the soup.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats filled with cheese and herbs provide a savory option alongside your bowl of comfort.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, and cheeses makes for an impressive side that enhances the Italian theme.
7. Simple Green Beans: Steamed green beans tossed in olive oil make for a light and nutritious side dish.
8. Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia topped with herbs adds an inviting aroma and texture that complements this cozy meal perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian Penicillin Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes to watch out for. Here’s how to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the sauté step: Many people skip browning the vegetables, which adds depth to the flavor. Always sauté veggies in oil first for a richer taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pastina too long can make it mushy. Aim for al-dente and remember that it will continue to cook in the soup.
• Not adjusting seasonings: Every broth varies in saltiness. Taste your soup and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice before serving.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is crucial for flavor. Opt for high-quality chicken or vegetable broth for the best results.
• Ignoring garnishes: Garnishes like parmesan and parsley elevate the dish. Don’t skip these final touches for added flavor and presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Italian Penicillin Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Penicillin Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top as it expands.
• The soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Italian Penicillin Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered until hot throughout.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring regularly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Penicillin Soup.

What makes Italian Penicillin Soup so comforting?

Italian Penicillin Soup combines fresh vegetables with warm broth, creating a soothing dish perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes! While pastina is traditional, any small pasta shape works well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is Italian Penicillin Soup healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is full of vegetables and can be made low in calories while still being nourishing and satisfying.

How do I customize my Italian Penicillin Soup?

Feel free to add proteins like chicken or beans for extra heartiness. You can also experiment with different herbs or spices for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

Italian Penicillin Soup is a warm, nourishing dish that offers comfort during tough times. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a beloved favorite!