ITALIAN PENICILLIN SOUP ULTIMATE

The sniffles are here, your throat’s scratchy, and all you want is comfort in a bowl? Forget the drugstore, because this Italian Penicillin Soup is about to become your new best friend. Packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, it’s the delicious way to soothe your soul and get you back on your feet – I promise you’ll feel better in no time!

Ingredients That Heal: Your Shopping List

For the Soup:

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped
• Carrots: 2 medium, chopped
• Celery: 2 stalks, chopped
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced (or more, if you’re feeling brave!)
• Chicken Broth: 8 cups (low sodium preferred)
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 ounce) can, undrained
• Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons
• Bay Leaf: 1
• Cooked Chicken: 2 cups, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• Fresh Spinach: 5 ounces, roughly chopped
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed is best!)
• Salt and Pepper: To taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh Parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan Cheese
• Red Pepper Flakes (for a little kick)

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This is the foundation of flavor, so don’t rush it!
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Step 2: Simmer and Infuse

1. Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), Italian seasoning, and bay leaf.
2. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. For an even deeper flavor, you can simmer it for up to an hour!

Step 3: Add the Good Stuff

1. Remove the bay leaf. It’s done its job!
2. Stir in the cooked chicken and spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in the lemon juice. This brightens up the soup and adds a wonderful zing.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired.
2. Serve hot and enjoy the healing power of Italian Penicillin Soup!

Why This Works: The Science Behind the Soup

Okay, maybe there’s no actual penicillin in this soup, but the combination of ingredients really does pack a powerful punch against colds and flu! Chicken broth is known for its hydrating and soothing properties. The vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, while garlic has natural antiviral and antibacterial compounds. The lemon juice adds a dose of Vitamin C, and the herbs and spices offer anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s not just comfort food; it’s food that actively helps you feel better!

Customizing Your Comfort: Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about soup is how easily you can adapt it to your preferences and what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Protein Power: Add shredded turkey instead of chicken, or even some cooked Italian sausage for a heartier soup. If you’re looking for Chicken Gnocchi Soup variations, you could even add gnocchi for a richer feel.
• Vegetable Boost: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Creamy Dreamy: For a creamier soup, stir in a swirl of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
• Lemon Love: Add more lemon juice for a tangier flavor.

Soup Secrets: Tips and Tricks for the Best Bowl

Here are a few extra tips to help you make the most amazing Italian Penicillin Soup:

• Use High-Quality Broth: The broth is the foundation of the soup, so choose a good quality one. Homemade is always best, but store-bought low-sodium broth is a great option too.
• Don’t Overcook the Spinach: Add the spinach at the very end and cook just until it wilts. Overcooked spinach can become bitter.
• Taste as You Go: Seasoning is key! Taste the soup throughout the cooking process and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice as needed.
• Make It Ahead: This soup is even better the next day! The flavors have time to meld together and deepen.

No Pasta Soup Recipes: Making it Gluten-Free

One of the reasons I love this recipe is that it naturally falls under the category of No Pasta Soup Recipes. It’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for a comforting and filling soup without the added carbs. You won’t miss the pasta at all, I promise!

Light Easy Soup Recipes: Perfect for Any Time of Year

Even though it’s called “penicillin soup,” this isn’t just for when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s one of those Light Easy Soup Recipes that you can enjoy year-round. It’s satisfying without being heavy, making it perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Crock Pot Easy Soup: A Hands-Off Approach

Want to make this even easier? You can definitely adapt this to be a Crock Pot Easy Soup! Simply sauté the vegetables as instructed, then transfer them to your slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients (except the spinach and lemon juice) and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the spinach and lemon juice during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

If you like the idea of a crock pot recipe, you might like Creamy Lasagna Soup too, which can also be made in a slow cooker.

How To Make Penicillin Soup: A Recap

So, How To Make Penicillin Soup? It’s simple! Sauté your aromatics, simmer with broth and seasonings, add your protein and greens, and finish with a bright touch of lemon. It’s a recipe that’s both easy to make and incredibly rewarding to eat.

Beyond Italian Penicillin Soup: Exploring Other Comforting Bowls

If you’re a soup lover like me, you’re always on the lookout for new and delicious recipes to try. Besides this Italian Penicillin Soup, there are so many other comforting bowls to explore! For something with a bit of a kick, try Chicken Tortilla Soup. Or, if you’re craving something heartier, Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is always a winner. And for a classic, you can’t go wrong with a Tomato Soup Recipe, especially when paired with a grilled cheese sandwich! Another great option is Pasta Fagioli, a hearty and flavorful Italian bean and pasta soup.

Final Thoughts: Soup for the Soul

Whether you’re battling a cold or simply craving a comforting meal, this Italian Penicillin Soup is the perfect choice. It’s packed with flavor, nutrients, and a whole lot of love. So grab a spoon, cozy up, and enjoy the warmth and goodness of this truly special soup. You deserve it!