Ah, Italian Penicillin Soup—what a glorious creation! I remember the first time I stumbled upon this soul-soothing dish while visiting a quaint little countryside kitchen in Tuscany. The air was thick with the comforting aroma of simmering vegetables and garlic, and my heart simply danced as I watched an Italian Nonna stir her bubbling pot. “This,” she said with a twinkle in her eye, “is what we call our Italian medicine.”

From that day, this delightful soup has claimed its place in my heart (and my kitchen!). It’s a remedy for those chilly evenings and a comforting hug in a bowl. With each warm spoonful, you can taste the love and care wrapped up in it. The bright flavors of fresh vegetables mingle together harmoniously, while hints of lemon dance on the palate, making it burst with life. Trust me, if you’re feeling a little under the weather or just need something nourishing, this soup is an absolute must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Peasy: Simple ingredient list and quick steps mean you’ll have deliciousness in no time!
• Healthy Goodness: Packed with vegetables and nutrients, this soup is a great way to fuel your body.
• Flavor Explosion: The fresh garlic, earthy beans, and a zesty kick from lemon will have your taste buds tingling.
• Perfect for Crowds: Easily scales up for gatherings; it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser!
• Comfort in a Bowl: Perfect for cozy evenings when you just need a taste of home.

Recipe Snapshot

| Category | Cuisine | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Yield | Skill Level |
|—————-|—————-|———–|———–|————|——–|————–|
| Soup | Italian | 10 mins | 20 mins | 30 mins | 4 servings | Beginner |

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: This is your flavor base! Extra virgin olive oil adds that Italian essence.
• 1 onion, chopped: The aromatic backbone—onions bring so much flavor when sautéed!
• 2 carrots, diced: For a touch of sweetness and vibrant color—good for the soul!
• 2 celery stalks, diced: Adds a subtle crunch and freshness to every spoonful.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Ah, the magical herb! Garlic boosts flavor and health benefits.
• 4 cups vegetable broth: The heart of the soup; it infuses the dish with richness.
• 1 cup spinach (or kale): Adds nutrients and a lovely green hue—get your greens!
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed: These creamy beans provide protein, texture, and bulk.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that ties everything together—smells divine!
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for elevating all those delightful flavors.
• Juice of 1 lemon: This brightens and adds a splash of zesty goodness that cuts through the richness.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Heat the Olive Oil

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. The oil should shimmer, inviting you to dive in!

2. Sauté the Veggies

Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Oh, that sizzle—don’t you love the way your kitchen smells right now?

3. Add the Garlic

Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Just wait for that aroma to wrap around you like a warm embrace!

4. Pour in the Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. You can practically hear the excitement bubbling away.

5. Add the Goodies

Next, add the cannellini beans, spinach, oregano, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Take a moment to savor the wafting scents—it’s a comforting symphony!

6. Lemon Love

Adjust seasoning as needed and stir in the lemon juice before serving. This final touch brightens everything up!

7. Serve Warm

Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm. You’ve just created a cozy hug in a bowl!

Pro Tips for Success

• Fresh is Best: Opt for fresh garlic and seasonal veggies whenever you can for maximum flavor.
• Taste as you Go: Adjust those seasonings! You know what flavors you love, so make it yours.
• Cook Low and Slow: If you have the time, letting the soup simmer a bit longer deepens the flavors.

Flavor Variations

• Herb it Up: Try adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a seasonal twist.
• Veggie Swap: Use whatever fresh vegetables you have; zucchini or bell peppers can be lovely additions!
• Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this glorious soup with crusty bread to soak up every last drop. A simple side salad with tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully. As for drinks, a light white wine or fizzy sparkling water will complement the meal perfectly.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Prep this soup ahead of time! It’s delicious the next day. Store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Leftovers

Transform leftovers into a pasta bake! Mix with cooked pasta and bake with cheese until bubbly—the ultimate comfort dish!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this soup! Portion it out in freezer-safe containers. It lasts up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool down completely before freezing!

Reheating

The best reheating methods: For a quick option, microwave until heated through. Prefer stovetop? Warm it in a pot on low until bubbling.

FAQs

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Absolutely! It will add a deeper flavor to the soup.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes! It’s naturally gluten-free—just double-check the broth label.

Can I substitute different beans?
Of course! White beans or even lentils would work beautifully.

How can I make it heartier?
Add cooked grains like quinoa or farro to give it more substance!

Final Thoughts

As you savor your bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup, I hope you feel wrapped in the warmth of Italian kitchens, laughter, and love. There’s something beautifully comforting about sharing a meal that’s full of wholesome ingredients and good vibes. So, don your apron, gather your loved ones, and let’s make cooking a delightful experience. After all, at Taste It Recipes, we believe that every meal is an opportunity to create delicious memories! Buon Appetito!

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