Italian Penicillin Soup

Name: Italian Penicillin Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups kale, chopped; 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the comforting warmth of Italian Penicillin Soup, a delightful blend of rich broth, tender vegetables, and aromatic herbs that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. This immune-boosting soup is perfect for chilly days and is packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish body and soul. It's an easy-to-follow recipe that makes a wonderful addition to your soup rotation, ideal for family dinners or meal prep.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2025-12-03T16:23:59.823Z

This soup is not just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl, drawing inspiration from the rustic kitchens of Italy.

The Nutritional Benefits of Italian Penicillin Soup

Italian Penicillin Soup is not just a delicious meal; it's packed with nutrients that can help support your immune system. The base of the soup consists of a rich vegetable broth loaded with vitamins and minerals from the fresh veggies, including carrots, celery, and kale. Each serving is a powerhouse of antioxidants that can help fight off illness, making it a comforting choice during cold and flu season.

One of the standout ingredients in this soup is kale, which is known for its high vitamin K content and is also a great source of vitamins A and C. Integrating greens like kale into your diet has numerous health benefits, including improved digestion and reduced risk of chronic diseases. Coupled with the protein-rich cannellini beans, this soup provides a well-rounded meal that supports your overall health.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Soup

To enhance the flavors in your Italian Penicillin Soup, consider sautéing the vegetables longer to develop a deeper taste. Cooking the onions until they are golden can create a sweeter, richer base for your soup. Additionally, adjusting the amount of herbs according to your preference allows you to customize the flavor profile to suit your palate.

Don’t forget to taste as you go! The seasoning can be adjusted at any stage—adding more salt, pepper, or herbs can elevate the final dish. If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that complements the other flavors beautifully.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Italian Penicillin Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple mixed greens salad. For a hearty meal, serve it alongside a slice of garlic bread for dipping. This combination not only enhances the flavor experience but also makes your meal feel more complete and satisfying.

If you want to switch things up, feel free to add other seasonal vegetables or grains to the soup, such as quinoa or brown rice. This adaptability makes it perfect for cleaning out your fridge while still delivering a healthy and tasty meal. You might even try different beans or lentils to experiment with textures and flavors.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to create a comforting bowl of Italian Penicillin Soup.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups kale, chopped
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

Once you have everything ready, you're just moments away from enjoying a delicious bowl of soup.

Instructions

Follow these steps to whip up your Italian Penicillin Soup.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook for another 5 minutes.

Add the Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer and Add Greens

Lower the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Add the kale and cannellini beans, simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy your comforting Italian Penicillin Soup.

This delightful soup can be served warm and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Italian Penicillin Soup stores well, making it an ideal option for meal prep. Once cooled, transfer the soup to airtight containers and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as liquids expand when frozen.

When reheating, simply thaw if frozen and heat it over medium heat until warmed through. For a quicker option, you can use the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If the soup has thickened during storage, adding a splash of broth or water while reheating can help restore the desired consistency.

Health Considerations

This soup is suitable for a variety of diets, including vegetarian and gluten-free. The use of wholesome, plant-based ingredients makes it a great option for anyone seeking to incorporate more vegetarian meals into their diet. Additionally, the absence of heavy creams or meats keeps it light and nutritious.

However, if you have specific dietary restrictions, it’s essential to check ingredient labels—especially for the vegetable broth and beans. Make sure they fit within your dietary needs, particularly if you're watching sodium or other additives, ensuring that your delicious bowl of soup remains as healthy as possible.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this soup freezes well in an airtight container.