Italian Penicillin Soup

Italian Penicillin Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re seeking a nourishing meal. This delightful chicken and pasta soup, enriched with aromatic vegetables and topped with Parmesan, offers a warm embrace in every bowl. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup stands out for its wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and quick prep time, you can whip up this soup without hassle.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory broth creates a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served as an appetizer; it fits any occasion beautifully.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from vegetables and lean protein, this soup is a guilt-free indulgence.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Italian Penicillin Soup, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup evenly without spills.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while mixing ingredients thoroughly.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts on vegetables, making your prep faster and safer.

Ingredients

A nourishing Italian chicken and pasta soup simmered with aromatic vegetables and Parmesan, pure comfort in a bowl.

For the Soup Base

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth

For the Pasta and Chicken

• 1 cup small pasta (stelline, orzo, or ditalini)
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken

Seasoning and Garnish

• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan

How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
– Sauté onion, carrot, and celery for about 5–6 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Broth

Add the minced garlic to the pot.
– Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
– Pour in the chicken broth along with oregano, salt, and pepper.
– Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 3: Cook Pasta

Once boiling,
– Add the small pasta of your choice.
– Cook for 8–10 minutes or until tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken

Stir in shredded cooked chicken into the pot.
– Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes so all flavors meld together.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Remove from heat,
– Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan before serving warm.

Enjoy your homemade Italian Penicillin Soup!

How to Serve Italian Penicillin Soup

Italian Penicillin Soup is a warm and hearty dish that brings comfort to any meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Serve with crusty Italian bread for a satisfying crunch.
• Pair with garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor.

Topped with Extra Parmesan

• Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan on top just before serving.
• For a twist, add some crushed red pepper flakes for heat.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Pair with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and lemon for freshness.
• A Caprese salad adds a classic Italian touch, combining fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.

As a Main Dish

• Enjoy as the main course, especially on chilly evenings when you crave warmth and nourishment.
• Consider serving it in large bowls for a cozy feel.

How to Perfect Italian Penicillin Soup

To make your Italian Penicillin Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Homemade Broth: For richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme toward the end of cooking for vibrant flavor.
• Customize Pasta Shape: Experiment with different small pasta shapes to find your favorite texture.
• Incorporate Vegetables: Add seasonal vegetables such as spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Penicillin Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Italian Penicillin Soup can enhance the meal beautifully. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered with garlic butter provides a perfect dipper.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing complements the soup’s flavors well.
3. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, this appetizer offers a refreshing contrast.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your meal.
5. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and mozzarella balls on skewers make for easy snacking.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs nicely and can be enjoyed alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Penicillin Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the sauté: Skipping the initial sauté of vegetables can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always sauté onions, carrots, and celery until soft.
• Overcooking pasta: Overcooked pasta can turn mushy and ruin your soup’s texture. Cook pasta separately or add it at the right time to maintain its firmness.
• Neglecting seasoning: Insufficient seasoning can make your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
• Using low-quality broth: Low-quality broth can compromise the taste of your soup. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for richer flavor.
• Not garnishing: Forgetting to garnish your soup leaves it looking plain. Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan for added color and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Italian Penicillin Soup

• Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Italian Penicillin Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe pot until hot.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Penicillin Soup.

What is Italian Penicillin Soup?

Italian Penicillin Soup is a comforting chicken and pasta soup enriched with aromatic vegetables, perfect for any time you need warmth.

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes! While small pasta like stelline or orzo works best, feel free to substitute with other small shapes you have on hand.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Italian Penicillin Soup, substitute chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can enhance the nutritional value and flavor of your Italian Penicillin Soup.

Final Thoughts

Italian Penicillin Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients based on personal preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s pure comfort in a bowl!