When life gets tough or you’re feeling under the weather, there’s nothing like a warm bowl of comfort. The Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: Comfort Food That Heals is more than just a dish; it’s a heartfelt remedy that warms both the body and soul. This soup is perfect for sick days, cozy dinners, or simply when you want to enjoy something delicious and nourishing. With its aromatic blend of fresh ingredients, this recipe stands out as a family favorite that brings people together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein, this soup nourishes your body while being flavorful.
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need comfort food quickly.
- Versatile Dish: Customize it by adding your choice of pasta or vegetables to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for later. This soup is great to have on hand for those unexpected sick days.
- Family Tradition: Passed down through generations, it holds sentimental value and brings warmth from the kitchen to your home.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make the experience seamless and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even heat distribution, helping to prevent scorching while simmering the soup.
- Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quicker and safer, allowing for precise cuts that enhance the final presentation.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1 whole chicken breast, bone-in and skin-on (about 1 pound)
- 2 bay leaves
For Seasoning
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or small shells)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Finishing Touches
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
- Crusty Italian bread for serving
How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: Comfort Food That Heals
Step 1: Build the Aromatic Base
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; cook for about 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Broth and Chicken
- Pour in chicken broth and nestle the chicken breast into the pot.
- Add bay leaves, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Bring to a gentle boil; then reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer.
Step 3: Simmer Until Tender
- Cover partially and simmer for 25–30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove chicken breast carefully and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 4: Shred and Season
- Discard skin and bones from cooled chicken; shred meat into bite-sized pieces.
- Season broth with salt and pepper gradually.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
- Return shredded chicken to the pot; bring soup back to a gentle boil.
- Add pasta; cook according to package directions until al dente.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Elements
- Remove bay leaves from soup; stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Enjoy your hearty bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup!
How to Serve Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: Comfort Food That Heals
Serving Italian Penicillin Soup is an experience that warms both the body and soul. This comforting soup can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance its flavors and appeal.
Classic Bowl
- Serve the soup hot in a deep bowl, garnished with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for added richness.
Drizzle of Olive Oil
- A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top brings a touch of freshness and enhances the soup’s aroma.
Crusty Italian Bread
- Pair the soup with slices of crusty Italian bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the broth beautifully, making each bite delightful.
Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle additional chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Lemon Wedges
- Offer lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating brightens the flavors wonderfully.
Side Salad
- Complement your soup with a simple arugula or mixed greens salad dressed lightly with balsamic vinaigrette for balance.
How to Perfect Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: Comfort Food That Heals
Perfecting your Italian Penicillin Soup ensures that every bowl is as comforting as possible. Follow these tips for optimal flavor and texture.
- Use Quality Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to control saltiness and enhance flavor without overpowering ingredients.
- Fresh Ingredients: Always select fresh vegetables and herbs. They add vibrant flavor and nutrients to your dish, making it truly wholesome.
- Cook Chicken Slowly: Allow the chicken to simmer gently. This method keeps the meat tender and enriches the broth with deeper flavors.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Adding salt, pepper, or herbs incrementally will help achieve the perfect balance without overwhelming other flavors.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente, as it will continue to absorb liquid in the soup, potentially leading to mushiness if overcooked.
- Let It Rest: If time allows, let the soup rest after cooking. This gives flavors time to meld together, enhancing taste when served later.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: Comfort Food That Heals
Pairing side dishes with your Italian Penicillin Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your soup. Simply toast slices with butter and minced garlic.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction provide a refreshing contrast to hearty soup.
- Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil on toasted baguette slices adds a crunchy texture alongside warm soup.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables offers variety and complements the flavors of the soup beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables can be a healthy side that pairs well with Italian cuisine while adding color to your plate.
- Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad tossed with olive oil, veggies, and herbs serves as a refreshing counterpart to hot soup.
- Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese makes for a rich side that complements the savory notes of the soup perfectly.
- Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide a hearty addition that pairs well with this comforting dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Italian Penicillin Soup is a comforting dish, but there are common mistakes that can affect its quality. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for the best results.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Always use fresh, high-quality vegetables and broth. The flavors in your soup come from these ingredients, so choose wisely to ensure a rich taste.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry and tough. Keep an eye on the cooking time and remove it as soon as it’s fully cooked to preserve tenderness.
- Skipping the Aromatic Base: Neglecting to sauté the onion, carrots, and celery can lead to a bland soup. This step builds essential flavors, so don’t rush it.
- Not Tasting Along the Way: Failing to taste your soup as you go can result in under-seasoned broth. Adjusting seasoning incrementally helps enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Adding Pasta Too Early: If you add pasta too soon, it may become mushy. Wait until just before serving to maintain its al dente texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Allow it to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.
Freezing Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: Comfort Food That Heals
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of containers, as liquids expand when frozen.
Reheating Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe: Comfort Food That Heals
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through. Stir halfway for even heating.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until hot. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Italian Penicillin Soup recipe comforting?
This soup is comforting due to its warm flavors from fresh vegetables and herbs combined with tender chicken. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
Can I customize my Italian Penicillin Soup?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like spinach or kale, substitute different types of pasta, or even switch out chicken for chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
How do I make this Italian Penicillin Soup recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is also gluten-free.
Is Italian Penicillin Soup good for colds?
Yes! The warm broth and nourishing ingredients help soothe sore throats and provide hydration when you’re feeling under the weather.
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Yes! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just add it towards the end of cooking to heat through without overcooking.
Final Thoughts
The Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe is not only a delicious dish but also a versatile one that adapts well to personal tastes. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving comfort food, this soup is sure to satisfy. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or noodles for a unique twist! Give it a try and enjoy its heartwarming goodness!
Italian Penicillin Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves about 6
Description
Italian Penicillin Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for soothing the soul and nourishing the body. This hearty soup combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs in a warm broth that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s not just a meal; it’s a family tradition that brings loved ones together, making it ideal for cozy dinners or when you’re feeling under the weather. With its easy preparation and versatility—allowing you to customize with your favorite pasta or veggies—this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, it freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy its comforting flavors whenever you need them.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 whole chicken breast (bone-in and skin-on)
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini)
- Fresh parsley and lemon juice for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook until softened.
- Stir in garlic; cook until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and add the chicken breast along with bay leaves and herbs. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer until the chicken is cooked through; remove and shred.
- Return shredded chicken to pot, add pasta, and cook until al dente.
- Finish with lemon juice and parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Feel free to substitute vegetables or use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. Adjust seasoning gradually for the best flavor.