Italian Penicillin Soup

In my kitchen, Italian Penicillin Soup is a go-to dish whenever someone is feeling under the weather or just needs a warm, comforting bowl of goodness. This soup is packed with nourishing ingredients, making it the perfect remedy for those chilly evenings or when you want to treat yourself to something hearty yet easy to prepare. Its robust flavors and aromatic herbs transform simple vegetables into a delightful experience that can lift anyone’s spirits.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This Italian Penicillin Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. It brings a comforting warmth that’s perfect for chilly nights. This soup requires minimal effort to prepare and is perfect for busy weeknights or an impromptu dinner party. With its vibrant colors and fragrant herbs, it’s as satisfying to look at as it is to eat. Here’s what one happy home cook had to say about this dish:

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

How This Recipe Comes Together

Making Italian Penicillin Soup is truly straightforward. You’ll be starting by sautéing some aromatic vegetables before letting everything simmer together with fragrant herbs and a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Here’s a brief overview of the steps you’ll take to create this delicious soup:

1. Sauté onion and garlic.
2. Add carrots and celery.
3. Pour in the broth and seasonings.
4. Stir in the greens and finish with lemon juice.

Now, let’s gather our ingredients to get started!

Gather These Items

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped
• 1 lemon, juiced

Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables based on what’s in your fridge or your personal preferences!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Allow it to shimmer, which takes about a minute.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Toss in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for a few more minutes until they start to soften.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth. Add the dried oregano, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Stir in the chopped kale or spinach and cook until wilted, roughly 3–4 minutes.
7. Be sure to remove the bay leaf before serving! Stir in the lemon juice just before you ladle it into bowls. Enjoy warm.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Italian Penicillin Soup is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your meal with some creative serving ideas. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping or serve it alongside a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of creamy yogurt can add the perfect touch. And don’t forget a nice glass of white wine or a fruity herbal tea to complement the flavors!

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s hard to believe!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, make sure it’s warmed through to at least 165°F for safety. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Chop evenly: Ensuring your vegetables are cut to a similar size helps them cook evenly.
• Taste as you go: Adjust the seasoning based on your personal taste preferences; don’t be afraid to tweak!
• Batch cooking: Make a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.
• Fresh herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to swap them in for the dried ones; just increase the quantity as necessary.

Creative Twists

Looking to mix things up? Here are a few fun variations you can try:

• Add protein: Toss in some cooked chicken or beef for a heartier version.
• Different greens: Spinach, collard greens, or even Swiss chard can add different flavors.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat or some diced tomatoes for extra sweetness.

Nutrition Table

This Italian Penicillin Soup recipe not only warms the body but also soothes the soul, making it a beloved staple in my home. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Happy cooking!