Italian Penicillin Soup

There’s a certain comfort that envelops you on a chilly evening, and nothing quite embodies that feeling like a steaming bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup. The rich, savory broth, combined with tender vegetables, not only warms your body but also soothes your soul. You can almost hear the gentle bubbling of the pot as it simmers away, filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma that beckons everyone to gather around the table.

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Let’s Make It Together

Making Italian Penicillin Soup is a delightfully simple process that transforms humble ingredients into a bowl of warmth. You’ll start by sautéing the vegetables until they brighten and soften, releasing their natural sweetness. Then, it all comes together with loads of flavor, creating a cozy meal perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely Sunday dinner with family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Olive oil for sautéing

Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat, letting it warm up and shimmer just a bit. Add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery, stirring them together as they cook down and soften for about 5 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn translucent and sweeten the air.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and oregano, allowing their fragrant aromas to mingle for about a minute. No kitchen should be without the comforting scent of herbs dancing around!
3. Once you’re drawn in by the delightful smells, pour in the vegetable broth, bringing it to a cheerful boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, and add the kale or spinach. Let everything cook for about 3 minutes, until the greens are tender and vibrant.
4. Finally, taste the soup and sprinkle in some salt and pepper as desired. Just before serving, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for that bright, refreshing lift. Nothing beats that first bite—with every spoonful, you’ll feel wrapped in warmth.

Nutritional Snapshot

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 150
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 30g
• Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 6g

This Italian Penicillin Soup is packed with nourishing vegetables and is a fantastic source of fiber, helping to keep you full without the heaviness. Each bowl serves up a delightful blend of wholesome goodness, making it a perfect choice for a healthy dinner.

Perfect Pairings

Imagine gathering the family around the table for a cozy dinner, with steaming bowls of Italian Penicillin Soup at the center. Serve it alongside crusty bread for dipping, or perhaps a simple green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. A glass of crisp white wine could elevate the whole experience, complementing the soup’s heartiness. For those cooler nights, create an atmosphere with warm lighting and your favorite playlist humming softly in the background—it makes every spoonful taste even better.

Keep It Fresh

This soup is wonderful for meal prep! You can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. If you’d like to save some for later, this soup freezes well, too. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of extra broth or water for a creamy consistency if it gets too thick.

Betty’s Secrets

• For an extra layer of flavor, consider roasting the vegetables before adding them to the pot. It brings out a beautiful sweetness that complements the broth beautifully.
• After serving, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top can add a lovely richness that elevates the final dish.
• Add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for a delightful umami kick—it pairs wonderfully with the lemon’s brightness!

Creative Twists

• During autumn, try adding diced butternut squash for a sweet, seasonal touch. You can also use pumpkin puree for a creamy texture.
• In the summer, fresh basil or parsley can replace dried herbs, providing a vibrant freshness to the soup.
• For an added protein punch, throw in some chickpeas or cannellini beans to make it even heartier—your family will love the extra texture!

Your Questions Answered

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth in Italian Penicillin Soup? Absolutely! Chicken broth will give the soup a richer flavor—just watch the salt levels since chicken broth can sometimes be saltier.

How long does it take to make this Italian Penicillin Soup? From prep to bowl, you’re looking at about 25 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, this Italian Penicillin Soup is naturally gluten-free as long as the vegetable broth is certified gluten-free. It’s a wonderful option for guests with dietary restrictions!

Can I add more vegetables to the soup? Certainly! Feel free to toss in your favorites, such as zucchini, green beans, or even sweet corn, to create a unique twist every time.