Italian Penicillin Soup is a heartwarming, plant-based dish that blends fresh vegetables, Italian herbs, and a flavorful broth to create a nutritious and comforting meal. Often referred to as “Italian penicillin” for its healing properties, this soup is perfect for when you’re under the weather or simply craving a nourishing, wholesome meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large onion, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 large carrots, chopped

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 1 zucchini, chopped

• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 6 cups vegetable broth

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or orzo)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Add minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

3. Stir in zucchini, bell pepper, thyme, oregano, and basil. Cook for another 3 minutes to combine the flavors.

4. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.

5. Add pasta and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with fresh parsley on top.

Nutrients

• Calories: ~215 kcal per serving

• Protein: ~5g

• Carbohydrates: ~40g

• Fiber: ~6g

• Fat: ~6g

• Sugar: ~7g

A Wholesome Base of Vegetables

The heart of Italian Penicillin Soup lies in its combination of fresh vegetables, each contributing its own flavor and texture to the dish. The foundation starts with sautéing onion and garlic, which creates a fragrant, savory base that adds depth to the soup. The onion softens and turns translucent, while the garlic adds a pungent, aromatic quality that permeates the soup as it cooks.

Next, the carrots and celery are added to the pot. These vegetables provide sweetness and earthiness, creating a satisfying balance of flavors. As the carrots and celery sauté, they begin to soften, releasing their natural juices and adding richness to the broth. These vegetables not only provide flavor, but they also offer a good dose of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making this soup a nutrient-dense choice.

Zucchini and bell pepper add brightness and texture to the soup. Zucchini brings a mild flavor and tender texture, while bell pepper introduces a slight sweetness and a pop of color, making the soup visually appealing as well as delicious.

Herbs and Broth for Flavor

Italian Penicillin Soup owes much of its savory depth to the blend of dried herbs—thyme, oregano, and basil. These classic Italian herbs are added to the vegetables to infuse the soup with their earthy, aromatic flavors. The herbs are allowed to cook with the vegetables for a few minutes, allowing their oils and flavors to be released and incorporated into the broth.

The vegetable broth is the base that ties all the ingredients together. As it simmers, it absorbs the flavors of the vegetables and herbs, creating a rich and comforting liquid that perfectly complements the fresh ingredients. The diced tomatoes add a touch of acidity and sweetness to the broth, rounding out the flavors and making the soup even more satisfying.

The Pasta: A Hearty Addition

To make the soup even more hearty, a small pasta such as ditalini or orzo is added. The pasta soaks up the broth as it cooks, making it tender and flavorful. The pasta adds body to the soup and helps make it more filling, making this Italian Penicillin Soup a complete meal in a bowl.

As the pasta cooks, it absorbs some of the savory broth, becoming a deliciously soft addition to the soup. Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of pasta to suit your desired consistency—whether you like more broth or prefer a thicker soup with more pasta.

A Nutrient-Rich and Healing Meal

Italian Penicillin Soup is not only nourishing but also packed with health benefits. The vegetables provide a variety of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the bell pepper, antioxidants from the tomatoes, and fiber from the carrots and zucchini. The fiber content helps with digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, making this soup a filling option for any meal.

The olive oil used for sautéing the vegetables adds healthy fats that are important for maintaining heart health, while the small amount of pasta provides a moderate amount of carbohydrates for energy. This plant-based soup is also low in calories, with about 215 kcal per serving, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a light but satisfying meal.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Italian Penicillin Soup is perfect for a variety of occasions. It’s comforting and nourishing enough to be enjoyed when you’re feeling under the weather, thanks to its warmth and wholesome ingredients. It also makes a great addition to any meal, whether served as a starter or as a light, satisfying main course.

The soup is ideal for weeknight dinners, as it’s quick to prepare and can be made in under an hour. It’s also a great choice for meal prepping, as it stores well in the refrigerator for a few days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors over multiple meals. You can even freeze the soup for later use, making it a convenient and time-saving option for busy days.

Customizing the Soup to Your Taste

One of the best things about Italian Penicillin Soup is how versatile it is. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. For instance, you can add more vegetables like spinach, kale, or green beans to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the soup. If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give it an extra kick.

For added protein, you could incorporate beans, such as cannellini or chickpeas, or even cooked quinoa for a more filling meal. The soup is also flexible when it comes to the type of pasta you use—try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a different twist, or leave it out entirely for a low-carb version.

Topping and Serving Suggestions

While Italian Penicillin Soup is delicious on its own, you can add extra flavor and texture with toppings. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top adds richness and a savory, salty bite that enhances the soup’s flavor. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness and color.

To make the meal more filling, serve the soup with some crusty bread or a side salad. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the soup’s flavors and adds a light, refreshing contrast. If you’re in the mood for a heartier side, a warm slice of garlic bread or a cheesy toasted baguette would pair perfectly with the soup.

Conclusion: A Nourishing and Satisfying Soup

Italian Penicillin Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering warmth, flavor, and nourishment in every spoonful. Whether you’re looking to heal from a cold, enjoy a light meal, or savor a comforting bowl of soup, this plant-based dish has everything you need. The combination of fresh vegetables, Italian herbs, and a savory broth creates a deliciously satisfying soup that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

With its hearty vegetables, flavorful broth, and small pasta, this soup is both filling and nutritious, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. So, next time you need a comforting, wholesome meal, make a pot of Italian Penicillin Soup—it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.