Discover the comforting Italian Penicillin recipe. This hearty soup, packed with vegetables, pasta, and savory broth, is perfect for warming up on chilly days. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dish for gatherings, this soup fits the bill. Its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients make it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 25 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this delightful dish in no time.
- Nutritious and Hearty: Packed with vegetables and wholesome ingredients, this soup offers both comfort and nourishment.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it as a lunch staple, dinner centerpiece, or even as a soothing remedy on a sick day.
- Family-Friendly Flavor: The mild yet delicious taste appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Italian Penicillin, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Ladle
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly and accommodating all ingredients.
- Chef’s knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables, enhancing texture and flavor release.
- Whisk: Perfectly blends the egg into the soup for a creamy finish without curdling.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– Butter – 2 tbsp
– Celery, diced – ½ cup
– Carrot, diced – ½ cup
– Onion, diced – ½ cup
– Garlic, minced – 1 clove
– Pastina or other small pasta like orzo – 1 cup
– Chicken bone broth – 4 cups
– Turmeric – ¼ tsp
– Kosher salt – ¼ tsp
– Fresh ground pepper – ¼ tsp
– Butter – 2 tbsp (for finishing)
– Parmesan cheese, grated – ½ cup
– Egg, thoroughly whisked – 1
How to Make Italian Penicillin
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Start by heating the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Sauté onion, carrot, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
Step 2: Add Garlic
Once vegetables are tender:
Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Step 3: Combine Broth & Spices
Now it’s time to build flavor.
Pour in chicken bone broth along with turmeric, kosher salt, and fresh ground pepper.
Step 4: Simmer the Mixture
Bring your soup to life!
Heat until it begins to simmer gently.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Incorporate pastina or orzo next.
Add small pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Step 6: Add Cheese & Butter
Off heat, enhance the richness of your soup.
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and additional butter until melted.
Step 7: Cool Slightly
Let it sit for just a moment.
Allow the pastina mixture to cool for a few minutes.
Step 8: Incorporate Egg
The magic happens here!
Slowly incorporate the whisked egg while stirring continuously to avoid scrambling.
Step 9: Final Touches
Elevate your dish further!
Add a hint of fresh parsley and squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Step 10: Enjoy Your Dish
Finally, savor every spoonful of your delicious homemade Italian Penicillin! Enjoy!
How to Serve Italian Penicillin
Italian Penicillin is a warm and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a starter, these suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
As a Main Course
- Serve it in deep bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for added color and flavor.
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping, making each bite satisfying.
As an Appetizer
- Offer smaller portions in shot glasses or small cups, perfect for tasting before the main meal.
- Accompany with a side of mini bruschetta topped with tomatoes and basil to enhance the Italian theme.
With a Salad
- Serve alongside a simple mixed greens salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to complement the soup’s richness.
- A Caesar salad can also be a great option, adding crunch and flavor contrast.
Topped with Extra Ingredients
- Garnish each bowl with additional grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, cheesy finish.
- Add a dollop of pesto on top for a fresh herb flavor that pairs well with the broth.
How to Perfect Italian Penicillin
To ensure your Italian Penicillin turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use quality broth: A good chicken bone broth enhances the flavor significantly and adds depth.
- Don’t overcook pasta: Make sure to cook your pastina or orzo al dente so it maintains its texture in the soup.
- Add freshness: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving for brightness.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or peas to boost nutrition and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Penicillin
Enhance your meal by pairing Italian Penicillin with some delightful side dishes. Here are some fantastic options:
- Garlic Bread – Crispy bread slathered in garlic butter is perfect for soaking up the soup.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil make for a refreshing side.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil adds a nice crunch.
- Cheesy Polenta – Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers a comforting side that complements the soup’s flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until crispy provide both color and nutrition to your meal.
- Mixed Green Salad – A light salad dressed in vinaigrette balances the hearty flavors of the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Italian Penicillin is a comforting dish, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here’s how to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.
- Using stale ingredients – Fresh vegetables and quality broth are key. Always check your ingredients for freshness before starting.
- Overcooking the pasta – Pastina or orzo should be cooked al dente. This avoids mushy pasta in your soup. Cook it separately if needed.
- Neglecting seasoning – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of your Italian Penicillin. Don’t forget fresh herbs!
- Adding cheese too early – Stirring in Parmesan at the end allows it to melt perfectly without clumping. Wait until you remove the pot from heat.
- Skipping the egg incorporation – The egg adds richness and creaminess. Stir it in slowly off heat for a smooth texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Italian Penicillin in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Italian Penicillin
- Use freezer-safe containers for long-term storage.
- Italian Penicillin can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Italian Penicillin
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each session until hot.
- Stovetop – Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Italian Penicillin?
Italian Penicillin is a hearty soup made with vegetables, pasta, and savory broth. It’s known for its comforting properties.
Can I customize my Italian Penicillin?
Yes! You can add different vegetables or proteins like chicken or beans for extra flavor and nutrition.
How do I store leftover Italian Penicillin?
Store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months.
Is Italian Penicillin healthy?
Italian Penicillin is packed with nutrients from vegetables and can be made healthier by using low-sodium broth and whole grain pasta.
Final Thoughts
Italian Penicillin is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can make it your own by adding various ingredients or spices according to your taste. Give this heartwarming recipe a try, and enjoy a bowl of comfort on chilly days!
Italian Penicillin
Discover the heartwarming essence of Italian Penicillin, a comforting soup that promises to warm your soul on chilly days. This delightful dish combines tender vegetables, small pasta, and a savory chicken broth, creating a soothing experience perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re battling a cold or simply craving a cozy dinner, Italian Penicillin is your go-to recipe. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this soup not only nourishes but also delivers rich flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike. Enjoy it as a main course or a starter, and let each spoonful remind you of home.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Butter
- ½ cup Celery, diced
- ½ cup Carrot, diced
- ½ cup Onion, diced
- 1 clove Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Pastina or other small pasta like orzo
- 4 cups Chicken bone broth
- ¼ tsp Turmeric
- ¼ tsp Kosher salt
- ¼ tsp Fresh ground pepper
- 2 tbsp Butter (for finishing)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 Egg, thoroughly whisked
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, carrot, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Pour in chicken bone broth; add turmeric, kosher salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in pastina or orzo; cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese and additional butter until melted.
- Allow to cool slightly before slowly incorporating the whisked egg while stirring continuously.
- Serve warm with fresh parsley and lemon juice for brightness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 300g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
