Italian Penicillin Soup: A Hearty Cure for What Ails You
When the seasons change and the chill sets in, there’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup. This soul-warming dish, filled with rich broth, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, has all the elements of a perfect comfort meal. Whether you're feeling under the weather or simply craving a nourishing bowl of goodness, this Italian classic delivers everything you need—flavor, warmth, and a touch of healing magic.
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Gathering the Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
Before you embark on this flavorful journey, gather the following ingredients to create your own bowl of Italian comfort:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for a touch of richness)
- 1 medium onion, diced (the aromatic base)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for a burst of flavor)
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced (sweet and earthy)
- 2 celery stalks, sliced (adding freshness and crunch)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (for a tangy, slightly sweet base)
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium, the foundation of your soup)
- 1 cup dry pasta (like ditalini or small shells, to soak up the broth)
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (or cooked chicken breast, for convenience and flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (the essence of Italian cooking)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (a classic Italian herb)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh spinach (a handful, for a pop of color and nutrients)
- A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for the perfect finishing touch).
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Italian Penicillin Soup:
Now that you've gathered your ingredients, let’s walk through the steps to create this healing, heartwarming soup.
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and the onion turns translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, allowing the irresistible aroma to fill the air. Add the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to season. Stir everything together, letting the flavors meld as it simmers for about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Pasta and Chicken
Once the vegetables are tender, toss in your dry pasta and shredded chicken. Stir gently to combine, and let the soup simmer for another 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is cooked to al dente perfection. This is the magic moment where the soup starts to come together into a comforting, hearty meal.
Step 4: Add the Spinach
When the pasta is just right, add the fresh spinach. Stir it in and cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts into the soup, adding both color and nutrients to your dish.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each one with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This final touch adds a savory richness that brings everything together. Serve hot and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this Italian classic!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Italian Penicillin Soup
Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an easy and flavorful shortcut, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It adds depth and saves time.Customize the Pasta: Feel free to swap the pasta with any small shape you prefer—farfalle, orzo, or elbow macaroni all work wonderfully in this soup.
Boost the Flavor: For extra flavor, toss in a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end for a little zing.Make it Ahead: This soup only gets better the next day! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to add the spinach and pasta fresh when reheating to avoid them becoming mushy.
Why You’ll Love Italian Penicillin Soup
What makes Italian Penicillin Soup so irresistible is its balance of flavors—rich broth, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables—all with that signature Italian herb blend. It’s a dish that not only warms you from the inside out but also comforts you with each spoonful. The addition of spinach gives it an extra layer of nutrients, while the Parmesan cheese ties everything together in the most satisfying way.
Final Thoughts: A Bowl of Italian Comfort
Whether you're in need of a comforting meal during cold weather or a dish to soothe your soul, Italian Penicillin Soup is the perfect choice. It’s simple to make, yet packed with flavor and heart. Each bite will remind you of the warmth of home and the beauty of Italian cuisine. Try it today and let the healing powers of this soup work their magic.