When you’re feeling under the weather, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of comfort. The Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: Comfort Food That Heals is just that—a nourishing dish filled with wholesome ingredients that not only warms you up but also makes you feel better. Perfect for sick days, cozy nights, or family gatherings, this soup is a timeless classic that showcases the healing power of food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Nourishing: This soup is packed with vegetables and protein, making it a hearty meal that soothes both body and soul.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip this up in no time even if you’re not feeling your best.
- Customizable: Swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand; it’s versatile enough for any occasion.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup freezes beautifully, allowing you to prepare a big batch and enjoy it whenever you need a comforting meal.
- Rich in Flavor: The combination of herbs, fresh lemon juice, and garlic creates an aromatic experience that elevates the dish beyond ordinary soup.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make cooking this Italian Penicillin Soup much easier. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before starting.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large heavy-bottomed pot: Ideal for even heat distribution, which helps in simmering the soup without burning.
- Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables, making prep faster and easier.
Ingredients
To create this delightful Italian Penicillin Soup, gather the following:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1 whole chicken breast, bone-in and skin-on (about 1 pound)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or small shells)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
- Crusty Italian bread for serving
How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: Comfort Food That Heals
Step 1: Build the Aromatic Base
Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant—be careful not to let it brown.
Step 2: Add Broth and Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth and nestle the chicken breast into the pot. Add bay leaves, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer. Let the chicken cook slowly to ensure it stays tender while infusing the broth with rich flavor.
Step 3: Simmer Until Tender
Cover partially and simmer for about 25–30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily with a fork. The vegetables should be tender during this time as well. Remove the chicken breast carefully and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 4: Shred and Season
Once cool enough to handle, remove skin and bones from the chicken. Shred meat into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Season broth with salt and pepper gradually—remember flavors will concentrate as it continues to cook.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Return shredded chicken to the pot and bring soup back to a gentle boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. The starch from pasta will slightly thicken broth, creating that perfect comforting consistency.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Elements
Remove bay leaves from soup. Stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley; these fresh elements brighten up your dish while balancing rich flavors. Taste again to adjust seasoning as needed.
Enjoy your nourishing bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup!
How to Serve Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: Comfort Food That Heals
Serving Italian Penicillin Soup is all about enhancing its comforting nature and making it a complete meal. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this soul-warming dish.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Serve with thick slices of crusty Italian bread for dipping into the soup. The bread soaks up the broth, adding a lovely texture to each bite.
Add a Sprinkle of Cheese
- Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. This adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
Complement with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with extra chopped parsley or basil. Fresh herbs elevate the flavors and add a pop of color to your dish.
Serve with a Side Salad
- A light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup and provides a refreshing contrast.
Create a Soup Bar
- Set up a soup bar with toppings like crushed red pepper, lemon wedges, and additional herbs for guests to customize their servings.
How to Perfect Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: Comfort Food That Heals
Perfecting your Italian Penicillin Soup can create an unforgettable comfort food experience. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking process.
- Use Homemade Broth: If time allows, make your own chicken or vegetable broth for deeper flavor.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality olive oil can significantly improve the taste of your soup.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer gently helps develop the flavors more fully.
- Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Taste frequently as you cook, seasoning lightly at first and adjusting as needed.
- Store Properly: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge or freezer for easy reheating later.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: Comfort Food That Heals
Pairing side dishes with Italian Penicillin Soup enhances your meal while bringing balance to its hearty flavors. Here are some great options:
Garlic Bread
A classic pairing that is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a refreshing note.Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal veggies roasted until crispy provide both flavor and nutrition.Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing and croutons offers crunch alongside the soup.Polenta Cakes
Creamy polenta cakes can add a comforting texture that pairs well with the soup’s broth.Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
A melty grilled cheese sandwich is always a hit, making it easy to dip into your bowl of soup.Stuffed Peppers
Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice create a satisfying side packed with nutrients.Antipasto Platter
An assortment of olives, marinated vegetables, and cheese makes for a delightful appetizer before enjoying your soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Italian Penicillin Soup, it’s easy to stumble into a few common pitfalls. Here’s how to ensure your soup is perfect every time.
- Skipping the Aromatic Base: The flavor of your soup starts with the base. Don’t rush this step; cook the onions, carrots, and celery until they’re soft to build a rich foundation.
- Overcooking the Chicken: If you cook the chicken too long, it can become dry. Monitor it closely and remove it as soon as it’s cooked through for tender meat.
- Not Adjusting Seasonings: Make sure to taste and adjust seasonings before serving. Gradual seasoning helps enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
- Ignoring Pasta Cooking Time: Add pasta according to its package instructions for best texture. Undercooking it slightly before adding it to the soup can help prevent mushiness.
- Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Lemon juice and parsley add brightness at the end. Incorporate these fresh elements just before serving for maximum flavor impact.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: Comfort Food That Heals
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: Comfort Food That Heals
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.
- Stovetop: Simmer on low heat while stirring gently until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about the Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe.
What is the focus of the Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe?
This recipe focuses on creating a comforting and flavorful soup that not only warms your body but also soothes your soul during sick days.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit chicken. You can add more vegetables or beans for extra protein.
How can I customize my Italian Penicillin Soup?
Feel free to add different vegetables like spinach or zucchini. You can also experiment with various herbs such as basil or thyme for added flavor.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prepping or enjoying later on a chilly day.
Final Thoughts
Italian Penicillin Soup is more than just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that comforts and heals. With its rich flavors and customizable ingredients, you can adapt it to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy creating your own comforting tradition!
Italian Penicillin Soup
When you’re feeling under the weather, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup to lift your spirits. This nourishing recipe combines wholesome ingredients like tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, creating a comforting dish that not only warms you up but also provides essential nutrients. Perfect for sick days or cozy family gatherings, this soup is a classic that showcases the healing power of food. Easy to customize and great for meal prep, you’ll find yourself reaching for this revitalizing recipe time and again.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1 whole chicken breast, bone-in and skin-on (about 1 pound)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or small shells)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
- Crusty Italian bread for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; cook until softened (about 5–7 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the chicken breast along with bay leaves, oregano, thyme, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cover partially and simmer for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken and let it cool slightly.
- Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot. Season the broth with salt and pepper.
- Bring soup back to a gentle boil; add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Remove bay leaves, stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg