As the chilly air creeps in and the nights grow longer, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Italian Pastina Soup to wrap you in a comforting embrace. This nourishing dish, often affectionately referred to as “Italian Penicillin,” has been a staple in many households, offering a taste of home and healing with every spoonful. Just imagine the delightful aroma of garlic and fresh vegetables mingling together, creating a soothing broth that feels like a cozy hug on a dreary day.
I stumbled upon this recipe while searching for a quick and wholesome meal that my family would adore, and it quickly became our go-to for busy weeknights and rainy days. Ready in just 25 minutes, this soup features tiny pastina pasta, vibrant veggies, and a simple broth that’s not only vegan-friendly but also brimming with flavor. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply in need of something warm and comforting, this Italian Pastina Soup is sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.
Why is Italian Penicillin Soup a must-try?
Comforting Warmth: This soup wraps you in a blanket of coziness, perfect for chilly evenings.
Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 25 minutes, it fits seamlessly into busy weeknights.
Nutrient-Packed: It’s loaded with vibrant veggies, making every bowl both delicious and wholesome.
Versatile: Customize it easily by adding chicken or extra herbs to suit your taste.
Kid-Friendly: Its mild flavors appeal to even the pickiest eaters, making it a family favorite.
Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients, you can create a hearty meal without breaking the bank.
Experience the joyful embrace of this Italian staple — it’s like a warm hug, one spoon at a time!
Italian Penicillin Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Pastina Pasta – Tiny pasta that adds a delightful texture; substitute orzo if needed.
• Brown Onion – Essential for building flavor; can be replaced with shallots for a milder taste.
• Carrots – Bring sweetness and color; feel free to add more or substitute with parsnips.
• Celery Sticks – Provides depth of flavor; omit or use fennel for something unique.
• Garlic Cloves – Infuses the soup with aroma; adjust quantity to your taste or swap with garlic powder.
For the Broth
• Vegetable Broth – The warming base of your soup; opt for low-sodium for a healthier touch.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to balance flavors; adjust to preference.
• Optional Ingredients – Bay Leaf – Boosts flavor complexity with a subtle herbiness.
• Optional Ingredients – Parmesan Rind – Adds richness; skip for a vegan version and increase salt to taste.
For the Garnish
• Chopped Parsley – Offers a fresh pop of color and flavor; don’t skip this!
• Grated Parmesan – A finishing touch for those who appreciate a cheesy bite; leave out for vegan.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil – Enriches the soup and adds a smooth finish; perfect for that extra touch.
Create your own comforting bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup today!
How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup
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Chop Vegetables: Start by roughly chopping the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. This step builds the foundation of flavors that make your soup delightful.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, mix together the vegetable broth, chopped vegetables, bay leaf, and parmesan rind if you’re using it. The mixture is the heart of your comforting soup.
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Season and Simmer: Season the mixture with salt and black pepper, then cover and simmer on medium-high heat for 20 minutes. You’ll notice the vegetables soften and flavors meld beautifully.
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Strain Veggies: Once the vegetables are soft, carefully remove the bay leaf and rind. Use a slotted spoon to strain out the larger vegetable pieces for a smoother texture later.
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Blend Smoothly: Blend the strained vegetables with ½ cup of water until you reach a smooth consistency. This will enhance the creamy texture of your soup.
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Return and Combine: Pour the blended vegetable mixture back into the pot and stir well to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, ensuring all flavors come together.
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Cook the Pasta: Bring your broth to a boil again and add the pastina. Stir frequently for about 5-6 minutes or until the pasta is tender, ensuring it doesn’t stick together.
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Serve With Style: Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, grated parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil for that extra touch of comfort.
Optional: For added flavor, sprinkle with fresh herbs like thyme or basil before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Italian Penicillin Soup preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can chop the vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, and garlic) and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, the vegetable broth can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your comforting bowl of soup, simply combine the prepped broth and vegetables in a pot, bring to a simmer, and cook the pastina just before serving. This way, you’ll save time while still delivering a delicious, homemade dish to your family!
What to Serve with Italian Penicillin Soup?
As you sip on this cozy bowl of soup, consider these delightful accompaniments to complete your meal experience.
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Crusty Italian Bread: Its hearty texture is perfect for dipping, adding an irresistible crunch to your warm broth. This classic pairing enhances the comfort of the soup, allowing you to soak up every last drop.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light mix of fresh greens with a simple vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the soup. Consider adding cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for a refreshing crunch.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These soft, buttery sticks are irresistible and create a satisfying contrast to the smooth soup, making each bite a delightful adventure.
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Roasted Vegetables: Enhance your meal’s nutrition by serving a side of roasted or sautéed veggies, such as zucchini or bell peppers. They add a gorgeous splash of color and a smoky flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
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Parmesan Crisps: Crunchy and salty, these little bites can elevate your dining experience by adding a gourmet touch to your comforting bowl. Just imagine that savory crunch with each spoonful!
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Light White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well, balancing the soup’s flavors with its acidity and enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Homemade Biscotti: For dessert, consider serving almond or chocolate-dipped biscotti alongside espresso. The sweet crunch contrasts with the savory soup, ensuring a delightful end to your meal.
Expert Tips for Italian Penicillin Soup
- Perfect Pasta: Keep an eye on the pastina as it cooks; overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. If making leftovers, consider cooking pasta separately.
- Flavorful Broth: For a richer soup, try using bone broth instead of vegetable broth or add a splash of cream towards the end.
- Veggie Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Add vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a nutritious boost, making your Italian Penicillin Soup even heartier.
- Taste Adjustment: Always taste and adjust your seasonings before serving. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate the flavors significantly!
- Freezing Tips: If planning to freeze, store the soup without pastina. Add freshly cooked pasta upon reheating to maintain the perfect texture.
Italian Penicillin Soup Variations
Feel free to personalize your soup experience and make each bowl your own with these delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Swap pastina with gluten-free tiny pasta like rice-shaped pasta or quinoa to enjoy a gluten-free version.
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Vegan Boost: Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy, enhancing the soup’s richness while keeping it plant-based.
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Creamy Comfort: Stir in a splash of coconut milk at the end for a luxuriously creamy texture that adds a hint of sweetness.
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Zesty Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or freshly cracked black pepper to introduce a touch of heat that excites the palate.
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Green Goodness: Fold in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last 2 minutes of cooking to infuse extra nutrients and vibrant color.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or oregano added just before serving for a fresh and fragrant boost that elevates the flavor.
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Protein-Packed: Add shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked beans to make this soup heartier, perfect for a filling meal on chilly nights.
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Sweet Surprise: Toss in some peas or corn for a burst of sweetness, creating an unexpected contrast to the savory broth.
Dive into your own version of Italian Penicillin Soup today, each bowl just as comforting and nourishing as the last!
How to Store and Freeze Italian Penicillin Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove, adding extra broth if the soup thickens.
Freezer: Freeze the soup without pastina for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding freshly cooked pasta to maintain texture.
Room Temperature: It’s best not to leave the soup out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Serving Tip: Always taste and adjust seasonings after reheating, as flavors may shift during storage. Enjoy the cozy warmth of your Italian Penicillin Soup anytime!
Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of pastina is best for the soup?
Absolutely! Pastina is the traditional choice, as its tiny size adds a delightful texture. If you can’t find pastina, orzo is a fantastic substitute that will still give you that comforting bite!
How should I store leftover Italian Penicillin Soup?
For your leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do it gently on the stove and add a splash of extra broth if it thickens. This helps achieve that cozy, soup-like consistency you love!
Can I freeze Italian Penicillin Soup?
Yes, indeed! Just freeze the soup without the pastina for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stove and add freshly cooked pastina to keep it perfectly tender.
How do I ensure my soup doesn’t become too thick?
The key is to watch the pastina while cooking! Overcooking it can absorb too much liquid, leaving you with a thicker soup. If you anticipate leftovers, consider cooking the pasta separately and mix it in just before serving for that perfect texture!
Are there any dietary considerations for allergies?
Yes! This Italian Penicillin Soup is naturally vegan, but if you have specific allergies, be cautious with the broth. Always opt for low-sodium vegetable broth if sodium is a concern, and feel free to leave out any optional ingredients like cheese or other allergens.
What’s the best way to enhance the flavor?
To elevate your soup’s taste, consider adding a bay leaf while simmering, as it infuses subtle complexity. If you want an extra kick, a splash of lemon juice or fresh herbs like basil at serving can add a wonderful brightness that tantalizes the palate!
Cozy Up with Italian Penicillin Soup: Comfort in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chop Vegetables: Roughly chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, mix vegetable broth, chopped vegetables, bay leaf, and parmesan rind.
- Season and Simmer: Season with salt and black pepper, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Strain Veggies: Remove bay leaf and rind; strain larger pieces for smoother texture.
- Blend Smoothly: Blend strained vegetables with ½ cup of water until smooth.
- Return and Combine: Pour blended mix back into the pot, stir and adjust seasoning.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring to boil, add pastina, and cook for 5-6 minutes until tender.
- Serve With Style: Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, grated parmesan, and olive oil.