Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup – A Deliciously Healing Recipe

When you’re feeling under the weather or just craving a comforting bowl of soup, look no further than the Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup. This nourishing and flavorful dish is often referred to as “penicillin” because it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that are perfect for healing both the body and soul. Originating from the heart of Italy, this soup is a classic comfort food known for its ability to soothe and energize.

What sets the Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup apart is the perfect balance of rich, savory flavors and the use of fresh, wholesome ingredients. With tender chicken, carrots, celery, onions, and garlic, combined with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, this soup is designed to help you feel better while satisfying your taste buds. It’s the kind of dish that envelops you in warmth and comfort with every spoonful.

The addition of egg noodles or other pasta makes it hearty and filling, while the rich broth ties everything together for a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re recovering from a cold, serving a family dinner, or enjoying a cozy evening at home, the Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe. It’s the ultimate combination of health and flavor, perfect for any occasion.

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe 

There are countless reasons why you’ll fall in love with the Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup, but here are a few of the highlights that make it a standout recipe:

1. Healing and Nourishing
   This soup is packed with ingredients known for their health benefits. Chicken provides a good source of protein, while garlic and onions have immune-boosting properties. Carrots and celery are rich in vitamins, and the fresh herbs contribute to the soothing and anti-inflammatory qualities of the dish. It’s the ultimate “feel-good” meal that not only tastes great but also helps you recover and stay healthy.
2. Flavorful and Comforting
   The combination of garlic, onions, and fresh herbs gives the soup a rich, aromatic base that is comforting and satisfying. The broth is both hearty and flavorful, creating the perfect backdrop for the tender chicken and vegetables. The addition of egg noodles or pasta makes it even more filling, turning it into a complete meal that will leave you feeling nourished and content.
3. Easy to Make
   Despite its complex flavors, the Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup is simple to prepare. It requires just a handful of ingredients, and the cooking process is straightforward. You can have a pot of this delicious soup simmering away on the stove in no time, and the best part is that it only gets better as the flavors meld together. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a crowd.
4. Versatile
   This soup is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. You can use different vegetables, swap in different herbs, or even add a variety of grains or pasta. The recipe is highly adaptable, making it easy to experiment and create your perfect version of this comforting dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 stalks celery, chopped
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Equipment Used

• Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven : A heavy-duty pot or Dutch oven is essential for cooking the soup. It allows for even heat distribution and provides enough space for all the ingredients, from vegetables to broth.
• Cutting Board and Sharp Knife : A sharp knife and sturdy cutting board are important for chopping vegetables such as onions, carrots, celery, and garlic.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons : These are necessary to ensure accurate measurements of the ingredients, such as the broth, spices, and noodles.
• Wooden Spoon or Stirring Spoon : A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the soup and preventing scratching on your cookware. It’s also perfect for stirring the vegetables and broth together.
• Ladle : A ladle is great for serving the soup into bowls without spilling or making a mess.
• Colander or Sieve (Optional for draining noodles) : If you’re using fresh pasta or prefer to cook your own noodles, a colander or sieve is useful for draining the noodles once they are cooked.
• Soup Bowls : You’ll need deep, sturdy bowls for serving the soup. Opt for bowls that can handle a generous portion of soup along with garnishes.
• Grater (Optional for Garnish) : If you’re topping your soup with fresh Parmesan cheese, a fine grater will help you add a light and delicate sprinkle to each bowl.

Directions & Instructions

1. Sauté the vegetables:
   In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and become aromatic.
2. Add the broth:
   Pour in the chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Stir in the dried thyme and rosemary. Let the soup cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to fully soften and the flavors to develop.
3. Add the chicken and noodles:
   Stir in the shredded chicken and egg noodles (or your preferred pasta). Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, until the noodles are tender and the chicken is heated through.
4. Season the soup:
   Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for an added burst of freshness.
5. Serve:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra touch of brightness. This soup is perfect on its own, or you can pair it with crusty bread for dipping.

Nutritional Information 

This Ultimate Italian Penicillin Soup is both nutritious and comforting, with a healthy balance of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 800mg

The chicken provides a solid amount of protein, while the vegetables offer essential vitamins like A and C. The egg noodles contribute to the carb content, making the soup hearty and filling. The broth adds flavor without excessive fat, keeping the dish relatively light yet satisfying.

For a lighter version, you can use low-sodium broth and substitute the noodles with a lower-carb alternative like zucchini noodles. The soup is already naturally gluten-free if you skip the pasta.

Variations

• Spicy Penicillin Soup: Add a chopped jalapeño or some red pepper flakes to give the soup an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth and a variety of beans (like white beans or chickpeas) for protein.
• Add Greens: Stir in some fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and a pop of color.
• Lemon and Dill: For a fresh twist, replace rosemary with dill and add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. Simply reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles, as they can become mushy when reheated. Add fresh noodles when reheating.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can swap out the egg noodles for any type of pasta, such as fusilli, penne, or even rice. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

4. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Add all the ingredients except for the noodles and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Pro Tips By Emma

• Use rotisserie chicken: For added convenience and flavor, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and adds a delicious smoky taste to the soup.
• Blend for a Creamy Texture: If you prefer a creamier texture, blend half of the soup in a blender and return it to the pot for a velvety consistency.
• Adjust the Herbs: Feel free to play around with the herbs in this recipe. Fresh thyme and rosemary work wonderfully, but you can also use basil or oregano for a different twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Italian penicillin soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. You can also serve it with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil for a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. If you’re looking for something heartier, a side of grilled cheese sandwiches or panini would make for the perfect comfort food meal. For an extra touch, serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.