If you’re in the mood for a cozy, flavorful bowl of goodness, this Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe is the perfect way to warm your kitchen and your soul. Combining the heartiness of fresh vegetables with the comforting bite of tender pasta, this soup brings together simple, wholesome ingredients that create a rich, satisfying experience in every spoonful. Whether you’re battling a chill or just craving a classic dish with an Italian twist, this soup feels like a warm hug you can eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all you need for this Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this soup so irresistible.
- Olive oil: Adds a silky base that helps soften the vegetables and infuses a subtle richness.
- Onion: Gives sweetness and depth when sautéed, forming the flavor foundation.
- Garlic: Offers a punch of aromatic warmth that wakes up the taste buds.
- Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and bright color to brighten the broth.
- Celery: Adds a subtle crunch and earthy undertone that balances the soup.
- Chicken broth: Provides a savory, soulful base to tie all flavors together.
- Diced tomatoes: Introduce acidity and a touch of tang that enliven the broth.
- Dried oregano: Brings a classic Italian herbaceous note for authenticity.
- Red pepper flakes: Add just the right hint of spice to give your palate a gentle wake-up call.
- Pasta (such as ditalini): Makes the soup hearty and filling with its tender bite.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance every flavor.
- Fresh parsley: A bright, fresh garnish that lifts the entire dish visually and taste-wise.
How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook these together for about 5 minutes until they soften and release their wonderful aromas, creating the flavorful base your soup needs.
Step 2: Build the Broth
Next, pour in the chicken broth and add the can of diced tomatoes, including their juices. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the pot to a boil to marry all those vibrant flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Once the broth is bubbling, stir in your choice of pasta—ditalini works beautifully here. Let it cook for about 10 to 12 minutes until the pasta is tender but still just holding its shape, giving the soup a satisfying texture.
Step 4: Finish and Garnish
After the pasta is perfectly cooked, it’s time to bring the soup together with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. This final touch adds a burst of color and a hint of fresh herbaceous brightness right before serving.
How to Serve Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh parsley is a classic topping, feel free to experiment with grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for a luxurious finish. These garnishes enhance the flavors without overpowering the heartwarming essence of the soup.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty Italian bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal. The bread is perfect for sopping up that savory broth, while a fresh salad balances the meal with bright, crisp contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve this soup in rustic bread bowls or individual mini cocottes to impress guests. Alternatively, you can add a dollop of ricotta or a few fresh basil leaves for an eye-catching, gourmet touch that brings the Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe to a whole new level.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its fresh flavors and prevent the pasta from becoming too soft.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the soup without the pasta first, as pasta tends to get mushy when thawed. When ready to eat, cook fresh pasta and mix it in right before serving for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency and bring it back to its perfect comforting state.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! Vegetable broth works well if you want a vegetarian version. It will keep the soup flavorful while making it suitable for all diets.
What type of pasta is best for this soup?
Ditalini is a traditional choice because its small size cooks evenly and fits comfortably on a spoon. However, any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni or small shells will do great.
Is this soup spicy because of the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle touch of heat, perfect for warming you up without overwhelming the flavors. You can always adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Can I add protein to this soup?
Yes! Grilled chicken or Italian sausage can be excellent additions if you want to boost the meal’s heartiness. Just cook them separately or sauté before adding to keep textures right.
How thick is the soup supposed to be?
This soup is designed to be brothy and comforting, not too thick. The broth should remain light and flavorful, with the pasta and vegetables adding substance enough to satisfy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about making and sharing this Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe. It’s a simple yet deeply satisfying dish that fills your kitchen with warmth and your heart with comfort. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to soup that brings a little bit of Italy right to your table.
Print
Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Italian Penicillin Soup is a hearty and comforting bowl filled with tender pasta, aromatic vegetables, and a flavorful blend of chicken broth and tomatoes. This easy-to-make soup warms you up with its subtle spice from red pepper flakes and fresh parsley garnish, ideal for a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 1 cup pasta (such as ditalini)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Increase heat to bring the soup to a boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Stir in the pasta of your choice and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still firm to the bite.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and ladle into bowls. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a bright, herbaceous finish before serving.
Notes
- You may substitute the pasta with gluten-free options if desired.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Use vegetable broth to make this soup vegetarian-friendly.
- This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheats nicely.
- For a thicker soup, reduce the chicken broth to 5 cups.
