When sickness strikes or comfort is needed, nothing beats a warm bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup. This dish, packed with veggies and wholesome ingredients, warms the heart and soothes the soul. I will show you how to make this flavorful recipe, from simple steps to tips for the best taste. Get ready to cozy up with a bowl of comfort that’s good for your body and spirit!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: This soup is packed with vegetables and whole grain pasta, making it a wholesome meal that nourishes the body.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of herbs and fresh lemon juice adds a delightful flavor that warms the soul.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a flexible dish for any taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1 cup whole grain pasta (such as farro or whole wheat)
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1 cup kale, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
– A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
Gathering the right ingredients is key for Italian Penicillin Soup. I love the vibrant colors. The fresh taste comes from veggies like onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. They form a solid base. Zucchini adds a nice texture. Whole grain pasta makes the soup filling and hearty.
Vegetable broth gives a rich flavor. I use canned diced tomatoes for ease. Kale brings nutrients and adds a lovely green touch. Oregano and basil create a classic Italian taste. A pinch of salt and pepper boosts the overall flavor. Don’t forget the fresh lemon juice; it brightens the soup right up.
I love to finish the dish with parsley. It adds a pop of color and freshness. Each bite feels like a warm hug. This soup is not just food; it’s comfort in a bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add 1 medium onion, diced, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes. The onion should become soft and clear.
3. Next, add 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook it briefly for just 1 minute.
4. Incorporate 2 medium carrots and 2 celery stalks, both diced. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often.
Cooking Process
1. Now, add 1 medium zucchini, diced. Cook it for 3 minutes until it begins to soften.
2. Pour in 6 cups of vegetable broth and 1 can of diced tomatoes, undrained. Raise the heat and bring the mix to a gentle boil.
3. Once it boils, mix in 1 cup of whole grain pasta, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes. The pasta should be al dente.
5. Stir in 1 cup of chopped kale and let it cook for another 2 minutes until it wilts.
6. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. This brightens the flavor.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Soup
– Choosing the right pasta
I recommend using whole grain pasta, like farro or whole wheat. This pasta holds up well in soup and adds more taste and nutrition.
– Adjusting seasoning to taste
Taste your soup as it cooks. Add salt and pepper in small amounts. Start with a pinch, then adjust until it tastes just right.
– Timing for adding kale
Add the kale near the end of cooking. It only needs two minutes to wilt. This keeps the kale vibrant and full of nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
– What to serve with Italian Penicillin Soup
Crusty bread pairs wonderfully with this soup. It soaks up the broth and adds a delightful crunch to your meal.
– How to make it a complete meal
You can add a side salad for freshness. Toss together greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. This balances the warmth of the soup with a crisp bite.
Pro Tips
- Use Seasonal Vegetables: Incorporating seasonal vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also adds a nutritional boost to your soup.
- Adjust the Pasta Cooking Time: If you plan to store leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup when serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked beans or shredded chicken to the soup for extra protein and texture.
- Enhance Flavor with Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the soup’s flavor profile. Add them right before serving for the best taste.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap out veggies in this soup. Try using:
– Bell peppers for a sweet crunch
– Spinach instead of kale
– Sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness
For gluten-free options, you can use:
– Brown rice pasta
– Quinoa pasta
– Lentil pasta
These changes keep the soup tasty and fun.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost flavor, consider adding:
– Fresh thyme or rosemary for an earthy touch
– A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
– A dash of smoked paprika for depth
Adding protein makes the soup heartier. You can include:
– Canned beans like chickpeas or cannellini
– Shredded rotisserie chicken for a savory bite
These enhancements make every bowl of soup unique!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store your Italian Penicillin Soup, let it cool first. This helps keep the soup fresh. Use an airtight container to keep out air and moisture. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option.
Freezing the Soup
Freezing your soup is simple. First, let it cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as soup expands when frozen. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on the stove over low heat. Stir often to keep it from sticking. To keep the flavor and texture, avoid boiling it after thawing. A splash of fresh lemon juice can brighten the taste again. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup!
FAQs
What is Italian Penicillin Soup known for?
Italian Penicillin Soup is known for its comforting taste and healthy ingredients. It combines rich flavors from the veggies, herbs, and pasta. This soup warms the soul and is perfect for chilly days. Many call it “Italian penicillin” because it feels like a hug in a bowl, especially when you’re under the weather.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian! The recipe already uses vegetable broth and lots of fresh veggies. Just make sure the pasta you choose is also vegetarian. This soup stays hearty without any meat.
How do I reheat the soup?
To reheat the soup, place it in a pot over low heat. Stir it often to warm it evenly. You can also use the microwave. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Italian Penicillin Soup is great for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge. It stays good for about four days. Just portion it out for easy lunches or dinners all week.
Can I add more ingredients to the recipe?
Yes, feel free to add more ingredients! You can include different veggies like bell peppers or spinach. If you like protein, try adding beans or cooked chicken. Adjusting the recipe to your taste makes it even more enjoyable.
This article covered the key ingredients, steps, and tips for making Italian Penicillin Soup. I shared ways to customize the recipe to your taste and how to store leftovers properly. Remember, you can switch up the veggies or add protein for variety. This soup is not only tasty but also great for meal prep. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a warm bowl toda
