There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to wrap you in comfort, especially when the chill of autumn settles in. As the leaves turn and the days grow shorter, I find myself reaching for recipes that not only nourish but also revive the spirit. That’s how I discovered my all-time favorite, Italian Penicillin Soup.
A delightful blend of vibrant veggies, tender chicken, and a medley of herbs, this soup is like a cozy embrace in a bowl. The authentic flavors swirl in harmony, lifting your mood with every spoonful. Best yet? It’s incredibly easy to make, allowing you to savor the process instead of feeling stressed. With its pleasing palette of colors and textures, it’s perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to a gathering with friends.
Grab your apron and brighten up your dinner table—you’re about to fall in love with this restorative soup that transcends your average recipe!
Why is Italian Penicillin Soup so special?
Comforting, Warmth: This soup envelops you in a hearty embrace, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
Quick and Easy: With just 45 minutes from prep to table, you’ll love how fast this comes together on busy nights.
Flavorful Harmony: A delightful mix of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs ensures every spoonful is a taste sensation.
Nutrient-Packed: With ingredients like spinach, carrots, and lean protein, it’s a healthy choice that fuels your body.
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family meals or inviting friends over; this soup guarantees satisfied smiles all around.
Dive into your cooking adventure with this recipe, and explore more warming comfort dishes by checking out our collection of easy soup recipes.
Italian Penicillin Soup Ingredients
• Perfect for a healing bowl of goodness!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – choose extra virgin for a fruity flavor
- 1 large onion, finely chopped – adds sweetness and depth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – enhances aroma and taste
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced – provides sweetness and color
- 2 stalks celery, diced – contributes crunch and flavor
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – adds earthy notes to the broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – elevates taste with a hint of Mediterranean
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a spicy kick
- 6 cups chicken broth – use low-sodium for better flavor control
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – rotisserie chicken saves time and adds richness
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – brings acidity and freshness
- 1 cup small pasta (such as orzo or ditalini) – for heartiness in every spoonful
- 1 cup sliced fresh spinach or kale – boosts nutrients and color
- Salt to taste – essential for flavor enhancement
- Freshly ground black pepper – for extra seasoning
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – serves as a delicious topping
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional) – brightens up the presentation
- 1 lemon cut into wedges – adds a zesty finish
You may find yourself making this healing Italian Penicillin Soup time and again!
How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup
Heat oil: In a large pot, drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Let it warm up for a minute until you can see ripples on the surface.
Sauté onions and garlic: Add in 1 finely chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, stirring occasionally until they’re translucent and fragrant—about 3-5 minutes.
Add vegetables: Toss in 2 diced carrots and 2 diced celery stalks, cooking for another 5 minutes until they start to soften and the kitchen fills with their delightful aroma.
Mix herbs: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and oregano, along with 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if you like a kick). Stir it all together for 1-2 minutes to bring out the flavors.
Pour chicken broth: Carefully add 6 cups of chicken broth to the pot, raising the heat to bring it to a boil. Enjoy the bubbling sound as your soup starts coming to life!
Incorporate chicken and pasta: Stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and 1 can of diced tomatoes, followed by 1 cup of small pasta. Cook according to the pasta package instructions until it’s al dente—usually about 8-10 minutes.
Add greens: Gently fold in 1 cup of sliced fresh spinach or kale and stir until they’re wilted and vibrant, which should take just about 2 minutes.
Season to taste: Taste your creation and sprinkle in salt and freshly ground black pepper to suit your preferences, giving it one final stir.
Serve: Ladle the hearty soup into bowls and enjoy it hot, garnished with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, optional parsley, and a lemon wedge to brighten it all up.
Optional: For an extra touch, add a drizzle of olive oil just before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Italian Penicillin Soup
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs enhances the flavor dramatically. Avoid wilted greens or old spices to keep it vibrant.
Cooked Chicken Shortcut: Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds rich flavor. Just shred it, and it’s ready to go—perfect for busy nights!
Pasta Timing: Be careful not to overcook your pasta. Check for doneness a minute or two before the package time to maintain a bite.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Since homemade broth can vary in saltiness, adjust the seasoning towards the end to avoid overpowering the soup.
Serving Variations: Serve with lemon wedges for a refreshing zing or mix in a dollop of pesto for added richness; it elevates the Italian Penicillin Soup experience!
Storage Tips: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to four days, so make a big batch! Just store the pasta separately if you plan to reheat.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Italian Penicillin Soup in advance is a fantastic time-saver for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and sauté them up to 24 hours beforehand; just refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can cook the pasta separately and store it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply reheat the broth with the prepped ingredients, then stir in the vegetables, cooked chicken, and pasta until heated through. Finish by folding in the spinach or kale, allowing it to wilt. This way, you’ll savor a delicious, homemade soup with minimal last-minute effort on hectic days!
How to Store and Freeze Italian Penicillin Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Italian Penicillin Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let it cool before refrigerating to maintain flavor.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy it later, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave space for expansion once frozen.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Avoid Pasta Sogginess: If you plan to freeze, consider storing the pasta separately. This ensures it remains al dente once reheated!
Italian Penicillin Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and customize it to your taste preferences!
Vegetable Boost: Add more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for a fresh twist and more nutrients in every bowl. Enjoy the vibrant colors they bring!
Meatless Option: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or white beans for a delicious vegetarian version that remains hearty and satisfying.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice instead to keep the texture while making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for a silky, luxurious finish that makes the soup extra comforting.
Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to make your soup sizzle with excitement!
Herb Flavor Fusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro, either stirred in at the end or sprinkled as a garnish for a fragrant touch.
Citrusy Zing: A squeeze of fresh lime or orange juice can brighten the flavors and add an unexpected refreshing twist to the dish.
Pasta Choice Variety: Try using tortellini or ravioli instead of small pasta for a delightful change that adds delightful pockets of flavor to your soup.
These fun variations invite you to tailor this soup to your family’s preferences with every bowl!
What to Serve with Italian Penicillin Soup?
The perfect meal invitation awaits, as this hearty soup pairs beautifully with delightful sides to create a cozy, fulfilling experience.
Crusty Bread: Ideal for dipping, a fresh loaf of sourdough or whole grain bread adds warmth and heartiness to each bowl.
Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup.
Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: These cheesy, savory sticks make for a delicious, fun dipper that your family will adore alongside the soup.
Roasted Veggies: Caramelized seasonal vegetables bring a hint of sweetness, balancing the savory notes of Italian Penicillin Soup perfectly.
Parmesan Risotto: Creamy, cheesy risotto can take your meal to the next level, adding a touch of elegance and creamy comfort.
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink with zesty notes brightens your dining experience, cleansing the palate between bites of rich soup.
Apple Crisp: A warm dessert with baked apples and cinnamon provides a delightful sweet ending to a hearty comfort meal.
Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Italian Penicillin Soup?
Absolutely! Using shredded cooked chicken from a rotisserie chicken is ideal. It not only saves time but also adds a rich, flavorful depth to the soup. If you’re using raw chicken, make sure to cook it thoroughly in the broth before adding the pasta.
How do I store leftover Italian Penicillin Soup?
Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool down before sealing it. This helps retain its delicious flavors and prevents bacteria growth.
Can I freeze Italian Penicillin Soup?
Very! You can freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes. If you’re using pasta, consider keeping it separate to maintain its texture during reheating.
What should I do if the pasta gets mushy when reheating?
No worries! If you notice the pasta has become mushy, you can add a little bit of broth or water while reheating to help restore its texture. You can also cook the pasta separately next time and stir it in just before serving to keep it firm.
Are there any dietary considerations for Italian Penicillin Soup?
Absolutely! If you or your guests have allergies, like gluten sensitivity, you can substitute the small pasta with gluten-free varieties. Make sure to use a low-sodium or homemade chicken broth to control salt intake. For those keeping an eye on calories, the soup is already low-calorie, making it a healthy choice for everyone.
Can I use other vegetables in Italian Penicillin Soup?
Definitely! The soup is very versatile. Feel free to toss in some zucchini, green beans, or even bell peppers. The more the merrier! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose, ensuring they’re tender yet maintains a nice crunch.
Healing Italian Penicillin Soup for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Let it warm up for a minute until you can see ripples on the surface.
- Add in 1 finely chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, stirring occasionally until they're translucent and fragrant—about 3-5 minutes.
- Toss in 2 diced carrots and 2 diced celery stalks, cooking for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and oregano, along with 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if you like a kick). Stir it all together for 1-2 minutes.
- Carefully add 6 cups of chicken broth to the pot, raising the heat to bring it to a boil.
- Stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and 1 can of diced tomatoes, followed by 1 cup of small pasta. Cook according to the pasta package instructions until it’s al dente—usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Gently fold in 1 cup of sliced fresh spinach or kale and stir until they’re wilted—about 2 minutes.
- Taste your creation and sprinkle in salt and freshly ground black pepper to suit your preferences, giving it one final stir.
- Ladle the hearty soup into bowls and enjoy it hot, garnished with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and a lemon wedge.