Italian Penicillin Soup

Italian Penicillin Soup is a comforting dish that offers warmth and nourishment, perfect for chilly days or anytime you need a little pick-me-up. This delightful chicken and pasta soup is packed with flavor from fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. It’s not only suitable for family dinners but also great for meal prep or serving guests on special occasions. The unique blend of ingredients creates a rich, hearty broth that makes it stand out among traditional soups.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this soup comes together in just 40 minutes.
• Flavorful and Nourishing: The combination of chicken, vegetables, and herbs delivers a satisfying taste while providing essential nutrients.
• Versatile Options: You can easily customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping pasta types.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day!
• Kid-Friendly: Its mild flavors make it appealing to children, making dinner time stress-free.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Italian Penicillin Soup, having the right tools will enhance your cooking experience. Gather these essential kitchen items for an efficient cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup evenly without splattering.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures precision when chopping vegetables.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

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

For the Base

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

For the Soup

• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup small pasta (stelline, orzo, or ditalini)
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt & pepper to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan

How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 2: Add Garlic and Broth

Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth along with dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 3: Cook Pasta

Once boiling, add your choice of small pasta. Cook according to package instructions for about 8–10 minutes until tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken

Stir in shredded cooked chicken into the soup. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes so everything melds together.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, garnish each bowl with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your warm bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup!

How to Serve Italian Penicillin Soup

Italian Penicillin Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil Leaves: Add a few fresh basil leaves to enhance the Italian essence of the soup.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of crusty baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Offer warm garlic bread for a tasty complement.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and depth to each bowl.

Serve with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Provide extra grated Parmesan on the side for those who love cheesy goodness.
• Mozzarella Balls: Fresh mozzarella balls can be a delightful addition, offering creaminess.

How to Perfect Italian Penicillin Soup

To ensure your Italian Penicillin Soup is truly comforting and delicious, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the flavor profile of your soup significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to suit your preferences.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For a perfect texture, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Penicillin Soup

Pairing side dishes with Italian Penicillin Soup enhances your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty soup perfectly.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing balances the soup’s warmth.
2. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing side.
3. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted peppers offers bold flavors alongside the soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice provide a satisfying bite that pairs well.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a savory touch that complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.
6. Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia bread seasoned with herbs is perfect for dipping into the soup’s broth.
7. Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Italian Penicillin Soup, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls.

• Bold seasoning: Not adding enough salt or pepper can lead to a bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
• Overcooking pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and add it towards the end of cooking.
• Neglecting broth quality: Using low-quality broth affects the flavor. Opt for a good chicken broth for the best results.
• Skipping garnishes: Forgetting parsley or Parmesan will diminish presentation and flavor. Always garnish before serving for that extra touch.
• Ignoring freshness: Using wilted vegetables can spoil the soup’s taste. Choose fresh, vibrant ingredients for better flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Italian Penicillin Soup

• Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Italian Penicillin Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, heating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Italian Penicillin Soup.

What is Italian Penicillin Soup?

Italian Penicillin Soup is a comforting chicken and pasta soup enriched with vegetables and Parmesan cheese, providing warmth and nourishment.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with any small pasta like ditalini or orzo based on your preference or what you have on hand.

How can I customize my Italian Penicillin Soup?

You can add vegetables like spinach or kale, substitute turkey for chicken, or adjust herbs according to your taste preferences.

Is Italian Penicillin Soup healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from vegetables, making it a wholesome meal choice.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the chicken. Add more vegetables or beans for protein.

Final Thoughts

Italian Penicillin Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it easily by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s perfect for cozy nights when you crave something hearty and warm. Give this recipe a try; you might just find your new favorite comfort food!