Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup
Imagine sinking into a bowl of warmth that wraps around you like a cozy hug on a chilly day: that’s the essence of Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup. With its rich dalliance of flavors and heartwarming ingredients, this divine concoction is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic trip back to simpler times when comfort foods ruled the kitchen. Perfectly paired with crusty bread, this soup comes together quickly, making it a fantastic weekday dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Kids will love it, and adults will cherish every spoonful, reminding them of family gatherings and cherished moments spent around the dining table.
For those seeking an irresistible remedy to long days and chilly nights, why not find yourself lost in a bowl of this soul-soothing soup?
Are you ready to experience the ultimate comfort in a bowl?
Is there anything more satisfying than a spoonful of warm, savory soup on a rainy day? What about an enchanting meal that transports you back to your childhood with each sip? Whether you’re sharing it with your family on a tight weeknight schedule or enjoying a relaxing day at home, this Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup will quickly become one of your go-to recipes. It’s the perfect answer to the “What’s for dinner?” question we often dread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Prep: This recipe boasts minimal prep time, leaving you with more moments to savor your meal.
- Healthy: Packed with fresh veggies and wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this soup appeals to everyone’s taste buds.
- Minimal Ingredients: Simple, accessible ingredients make this dish easy to whip up any night of the week.
Ingredients
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of golden goodness, setting the stage for rich flavor.
- Onion: Sweet and savory, onions provide a delightful aroma as they sauté.
- Garlic: The fragrant allure of minced garlic engulfs your kitchen; it’s irresistible.
- Carrots: Bright orange and crunchy, they add sweetness and color.
- Celery: A crisp, refreshing texture that deepens the soup’s richness.
- Dried Oregano: Earthy and herbal, it evokes memories of an Italian kitchen.
- Dried Thyme: A touch of thyme enhances the overall aroma and flavor perfectly.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Gentle heat that tingles the taste buds brings excitement to every spoonful.
- Low Sodium Chicken Broth: The soul of the soup, nurturing and rich.
- Diced Tomatoes: Juicy and tangy, they introduce the perfect acidity.
- Small Pasta: Tender bites of pasta create heartiness and comfort.
- Cannellini Beans: Creamy and nutritious, they enhance the texture of the soup.
- Fresh Spinach or Kale: Vibrant greens that add color and a nutritional boost.
- Parmesan Cheese: A cheesy topping that elevates the dish with creaminess.
- Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten the dish, adding a pop of color.
- Lemon Wedges: A zesty finish that elevates flavor profiles and provides the perfect brightness.
Timing
This Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup is the epitome of fast and indulgent comfort. You can have a steaming bowl ready to be served in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. However, if you’re feeling luxurious, consider letting it simmer a bit longer; the flavors will only deepen, creating an even richer experience.
Step-by-Step
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, allowing its richness to permeate your kitchen.
- Add diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until they become tender and translucent, releasing their sweetness into the air.
- Stir in minced garlic, carrots, and celery; cook for 4-5 minutes until the veggies begin to soften. Their vibrant colors will come together beautifully.
- Add oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes; stir and toast for 1 additional minute, activating their aromatic properties.
- Pour in a generous amount of low-sodium chicken broth and diced tomatoes; bring to a powerful boil to meld the flavors.
- Toss in small pasta and cook according to package directions until perfectly al dente.
- Stir in cannellini beans and fresh spinach or kale; this adds a wonderful creaminess along with nutrition, cooking for just 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and stir in Parmesan cheese until it melts beautifully, enriching every bowl.
- Serve hot garnished with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a wedge of lemon for that added zing.
Nutritional Information
This nourishing bowl clocks in at approximately 300 calories per serving but is packed with robust nutrients. An occasional indulgence is encouraged—after all, this soup is a treasure trove of comfort!
Healthier Alternatives
Looking for ways to lighten this recipe up? Consider making the following swaps:
- Low-sugar: Opt for homemade broth or check labels to reduce sodium while keeping it flavorful.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the Parmesan cheese and use a nutritional yeast sprinkle instead for a cheesy essence without the dairy.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is a delightful addition to any meal. Serve it alongside a fresh seasonal salad for lunch, a lovely addition to your holiday gatherings, or pair it with crusty bread for a simple yet fulfilling dinner.
Common Mistakes
Many home cooks face hurdles when making soup. Some common pitfalls include:
- Overbaking: Be cautious when simmering; overcooking can lead to mushy textures.
- Texture Issues: Ensure to not overcook pasta or beans to keep a delightful consistency.
- Messes: Always keep your ingredients prepped and organized to limit kitchen chaos as you cook.
Storing Tips
This Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup stores beautifully!
- Freezing Portions: Divide leftovers into portions as soon as it cools. This makes for easy reheating without losing flavor.
- Reheating Instructions: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to regain a vibrant, luscious texture.
Tempted to make it ASAP?
Imagine coming home to the inviting aroma of Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup wafting through your house. This incredible recipe isn’t just about nourishing your body; it’s about gathering loved ones around the table and creating lasting memories. Don’t wait! Gather your ingredients today, and dive into the flavorsome warmth of this enchanting soup.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs add a robust flavor; just use double the amount compared to dried.
Can I substitute other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to get creative! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even green beans make fantastic additions.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the Parmesan cheese. You can add tofu for protein!
What can I use instead of small pasta?
Quinoa or rice can work as excellent substitutes for pasta in this recipe.
How long does it last in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 medium Onion Diced
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced
- 2 medium Carrots Diced
- 2 stalks Celery Diced
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
Soup Ingredients
- 6 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth
- 1 can Diced Tomatoes 15 oz
- 1 cup Small Pasta Cooking according to package directions
- 1 can Cannellini Beans Rinsed and drained
- 2 cups Fresh Spinach or Kale
Toppings
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated
- 1/4 cup Parsley Chopped
- 1 lemon Lemon Wedges For garnish
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until tender and translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic, carrots, and celery; cook for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Add oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes; stir and toast for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes; bring to a boil.
- Toss in small pasta and cook until al dente, according to package directions.
- Stir in cannellini beans and spinach or kale; cook for 2-3 minutes until greens are wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper, stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan, parsley, and lemon wedges.
