As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup to wrap you in a warm embrace. This delightful recipe, bursting with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, is a go-to for cozy family dinners, making everyone feel cared for with each nourishing spoonful. You can almost smell the onions caramelizing and the earthy thyme mingling in the air, promising comfort and contentment with every slurp.
Italian Penicillin Soup
A heartwarming vegetable soup bursting with vibrant flavors, perfect for cozy family dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until they are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and oregano for about a minute until the kitchen is filled with their warm aroma.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat and add the kale or spinach, allowing it to cook until it wilts and turns a vibrant green, which should take about 3 minutes.
- Finish with salt, pepper, and a splash of fresh lemon juice just before serving, stirring gently to combine all those delightful flavors.
Notes
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika when sautéing the vegetables. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Let’s Make It Together
Making Italian Penicillin Soup is as simple as it is rewarding. Begin by gathering your favorite pot, a splash of olive oil, and all those beautiful, fresh ingredients. First, let’s sauté the onions, carrots, and celery together. The sound of vegetables sizzling in the olive oil is music to my ears, and the aroma is simply divine. As they soften, we’ll introduce the minced garlic, thyme, and oregano, letting those vibrant flavors meld together for a minute or so, take a moment to breathe in that cozy goodness.
Next, you’ll pour in the vegetable broth, watching it bubble and rise. Ah, the excitement that a pot of soup brings! Once it’s boiling, lower the heat and stir in the kale or spinach. Allow those greens to wilt until they transform into a luscious, vibrant green hue. Just before you serve, a hint of salt, pepper, and a splash of fresh lemon juice will elevate your soup to delightful heights. Now all that’s left is to ladle it into your favorite bowls and enjoy this heartwarming dish with your loved ones.
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
Step-by-Step Directions
- In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until they are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and oregano for about a minute until the kitchen is filled with their warm aroma.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat and add the kale or spinach, allowing it to cook until it wilts and turns a vibrant green, which should take about 3 minutes.
- Finish with salt, pepper, and a splash of fresh lemon juice just before serving, stirring gently to combine all those delightful flavors.
Nutritional Snapshot
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 7g
Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe keeps you full without feeling heavy, making it a perfect choice for a healthy weeknight dinner.
When to Enjoy It
Italian Penicillin Soup is perfect for family dinners, a cozy evening in, or even a simple meal when friends drop by. Serve it with a hearty crusty bread and a side salad for a complete and comforting feast. Don’t forget a glass of your favorite red wine to create that true Italian vibe.
Smart Storage Tricks
If you happen to have leftovers (which is quite rare, I assure you!), simply let the soup cool before transferring it to an airtight container to refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze this soup for up to 3 months — just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy another cozy meal.
Betty’s Secrets
- For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika when you sauté the vegetables — it gives a wonderful, unexpected twist.
- Keep a close eye on the greens; adding them during the last few minutes of cooking ensures they maintain their vibrant color and packed nutrients.
- If you prefer a creamy texture, blend half of the soup before stirring in the kale or spinach for a different mouthfeel.
Creative Twists
- In the fall, adding a touch of cinnamon creates a warm, spicy note that dances beautifully with the other flavors.
- During the summer, fresh basil or parsley can provide a brighter finish — just sprinkle it on top before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
Your Questions Answered
What is Italian Penicillin Soup? It’s a heartwarming vegetable soup known for its nourishing ingredients, perfect for cozy meals.
Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth? Absolutely! While vegetable broth is traditional, chicken broth adds a richer flavor if that’s your preference.
How long can I store leftover Italian Penicillin Soup? You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for 3 months for a cozy meal later on.
What other vegetables can I add? Feel free to mix in sweet potatoes, zucchini, or any seasonal veggies you love to customize the soup to your taste!