Italian Penicillin Soup: 7 Comforting Reasons to Love It

When the world feels a bit heavy, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup to lift your spirits. This delightful soup is my go-to remedy for chilly evenings or when I just need a little comfort. Imagine the aromatic blend of sautéed onions and garlic, mingling with fresh, vibrant vegetables like carrots and celery. It all comes together beautifully in a bubbling pot, creating a hearty and satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out.

What makes this soup truly special is its unique blend of flavors. The combination of diced tomatoes and vegetable broth creates a rich base, while the small pasta adds a delightful texture that makes each spoonful a joy. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! In just about 40 minutes, you can whip up a nourishing meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Trust me, once you try this Italian Penicillin Soup, you’ll want it in your recipe rotation for good!

Ingredients for Italian Penicillin Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup small pasta (any type you prefer)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

How to Prepare Italian Penicillin Soup

Making Italian Penicillin Soup is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through every step! You’ll find that it’s all about layering flavors and letting those ingredients shine. Let’s dive in!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the oil: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough to shimmer but not smoking – just a few minutes should do the trick!
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Wow, the smell is going to be amazing!
3. Add the veggies: Toss in the diced carrots and celery. Cook these for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for them to soften a bit, which makes the soup even heartier.
4. Stir in tomatoes and broth: Now, it’s time to add the can of diced tomatoes and the 4 cups of vegetable broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic begins!
5. Cook the pasta: Once it’s simmering, add in your 1 cup of small pasta and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking!
6. Season to taste: After the pasta is cooked, season your soup with salt and pepper. Start with a pinch and adjust as needed. Taste and trust your instincts – you want those flavors to pop!
7. Serve it up: Ladle the soup into bowls while it’s hot, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil. A little sprinkle on top makes it look gorgeous and adds a fresh touch.

And there you have it! A comforting bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup ready to be devoured. Enjoy every spoonful, and feel free to share with friends or family – if you want, of course!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this Italian Penicillin Soup is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a nourishing meal without the fuss.
• Hearty Flavor: The blend of sautéed vegetables, rich tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a comforting flavor profile that warms your soul.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: Packed with wholesome veggies and pasta, this soup is a delightful option for anyone looking to enjoy a meatless meal that’s still satisfying.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or pasta types. This recipe adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand!
• Great Leftovers: This soup stores wonderfully in the fridge, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep or cozy lunches throughout the week.

Tips for Success with Italian Penicillin Soup

To make your Italian Penicillin Soup truly shine, here are some practical tips that I swear by! These little tweaks can elevate your soup and ensure it turns out just the way you like it.

• Adjust the seasoning: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust the seasoning to your preference. Fresh herbs like oregano can also be added at the end for a pop of flavor!
• Pasta variety: You can use any small pasta you enjoy, like ditalini, orzo, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as different pasta shapes may require adjustments!
• Add greens: For an extra health boost, consider tossing in some fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. They wilt beautifully and add a vibrant touch to your soup.
• Flavor depth: If you want to deepen the flavors, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Trust me, it’s a game changer!
• Make it your own: Feel free to experiment! Toss in leftover vegetables or beans you have in the fridge. This soup is incredibly forgiving and customizable, so make it your own!

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating a deliciously comforting Italian Penicillin Soup that’s perfect every time. Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your Italian Penicillin Soup is super simple and a great way to enjoy leftovers throughout the week! Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious:

• Storing leftovers: Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll stay good in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months! Just make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container, as soup expands when frozen.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, simply heat it on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through. If it looks a bit thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave – just cover the bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your Italian Penicillin Soup any time you like. Enjoy every bowl!

Nutritional Information for Italian Penicillin Soup

When diving into a bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup, it’s nice to know what you’re indulging in! Below are the estimated nutritional values for one serving, which is about 1 bowl of this hearty dish:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 10g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes. But rest assured, this soup is packed with wholesome goodness while being vegetarian-friendly! Enjoy it guilt-free!

FAQ About Italian Penicillin Soup

Q1: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Italian Penicillin Soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy. You can also freeze it for later – perfect for meal prep!

Q2: What other vegetables can I add?
The beauty of this soup is its versatility! Feel free to toss in any veggies you have on hand, like zucchini, bell peppers, or even leafy greens like spinach or kale. Just chop them up and add them in during the cooking process. You’ll love the extra goodness!

Q3: Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Of course! If you’re not strictly vegetarian, using chicken broth will add a richer flavor to the soup. Just keep in mind that it’ll change the soup’s vegetarian-friendly aspect, but it’ll still be delicious either way!

Q4: How do I know when the pasta is cooked perfectly?
Great question! Keep an eye on your pasta during the last few minutes of simmering. It should be al dente, which means it’s cooked but still has a slight bite to it. A taste test is always the best way to check – just be careful, it can be hot!

Q5: Can I add protein to this soup?
Definitely! If you’d like to add some protein, cooked beans or lentils can be a fantastic choice. You could even stir in some shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re not vegetarian. Just mix it in towards the end to warm it through.

I hope these FAQs help you whip up the most comforting Italian Penicillin Soup ever. Enjoy cooking, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients!

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