Italian Penicillin Soup is a comforting bowl of wellness that brings warmth and flavor together in one hearty dish. Often whipped up during cold winter nights or when someone is feeling under the weather, this soup does wonders with simple ingredients. It’s a classic that showcases how a collection of humble vegetables and herbs transforms into something special. I once made it on a rainy Sunday afternoon, and the aromatic blend of sautéing garlic and onions filled the kitchen, inviting my family for a cozy dinner. This recipe is perfect not just for those chilly days, but as a nourishing choice for any meal.
Why you’ll love this dish
What’s not to love about a recipe that’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and packed with nutrition? This Italian-style soup is perfect for a weeknight dinner when time is short but you still want to serve something nourishing. With its colorful medley of vegetables, it’s not only kid-approved but also versatile enough to satisfy adult palates. When served warm, it brings comfort reminiscent of grandma’s kitchen, making it an instant family favorite.
"I made this soup last week, and my kids actually asked for seconds! It’s healthy and tasty, a win-win in our house!"
The cooking process explained
Making Italian Penicillin Soup is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll be sautéing the vegetables, simmering them in a flavorful broth, and before you know it, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal. Let’s look at the step-by-step process so you can gather your ingredients and get started.
What you’ll need
To create this nourishing soup, gather the following items:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to swap some ingredients based on your pantry—frozen vegetables can work just as well!
Step-by-step instructions
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter! Here’s how to prepare your Italian Penicillin Soup in just a few easy steps:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped carrots and celery, cooking for an additional few minutes until they begin to soften.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and sprinkle in the dried oregano and thyme, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.
- Add the kale or spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Best ways to enjoy it
To enhance your experience, consider serving this soup with a crusty slice of garlic bread or a side salad. You can garnish it with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of richness, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for added flavor and elegance. Pair it with a fruity red wine, and you’ve got a delightful meal that warms both the body and the soul.
How to store & freeze
If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! Italian Penicillin Soup stores well in the fridge. Just place it in an airtight container and consume it within 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to three months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently on the stovetop.
Helpful cooking tips
- Always taste and adjust seasoning. Depending on your vegetables and broth, you might need to play with the salt and pepper amounts.
- For a heartier version, you can add cooked pasta or beans to the soup just before serving.
- To speed up the cooking process, chop your vegetables ahead of time, or use a food processor to get them done in a flash.
Creative twists
There are numerous ways to shake things up! Consider using different greens like Swiss chard or mix in some spices like crushed red pepper for a bit of heat. You could also make it a protein-packed dish by adding shredded chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas. Opt for gluten-free pasta if you desire a filling accompaniment without the wheat!
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare and cook this soup?
This recipe takes approximately 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be a great convenience; just toss them in when you would add the fresh vegetables.
Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is entirely vegan, assuming you use vegetable broth and avoid adding any animal products.
How do I store leftovers safely?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in suitable containers for up to three months.
Whether you’re fighting off a cold or just seeking out something warm and soothing, this Italian Penicillin Soup is sure to lift your spirits and nourish your body. Enjoy making it and sharing the love it brings!
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Italian Penicillin Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A comforting bowl of wellness that combines humble vegetables and herbs into a nourishing soup, perfect for cold winter nights.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped carrots and celery, cooking for an additional few minutes until they begin to soften.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and sprinkle in the dried oregano and thyme, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
- Add the kale or spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Notes
For a heartier version, add cooked pasta or beans just before serving. Feel free to swap ingredients based on your pantry.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian