Description
This Italian Penicillin Soup recipe, inspired by the comforting food we make when feeling under the weather, delivers maximum soothing qualities. It combines a rich chicken broth base with tender vegetables and small pasta, offering a light yet deeply restorative meal. It is the perfect expression of culinary care.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 cups homemade chicken broth (or high-quality store-bought)
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup small pasta (Pastina or Acini di Pepe)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 fresh lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Shredded cooked chicken breast
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, carrots, celery, and onion.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the small pasta and cook according to package directions, usually 7-10 minutes, until al dente.
- If using, add the shredded cooked chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the fresh parsley, dill, and fresh lemon juice.
- Season generously with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed for maximum flavor.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls.
Notes
- This soup shines when made with homemade broth for the deepest flavor.
- Do not overcook the pasta; it will continue to soften in the hot broth.
- The fresh lemon juice added last is key to the ‘healing’ bright flavor.
- For an extra nourishing touch, add a drizzle of good olive oil just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired Comfort
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: Approx. 200 (varies based on broth/chicken)
- Sugar: Low
- Sodium: Moderate (depends on broth)
- Fat: Low
- Saturated Fat: Low
- Unsaturated Fat: Low
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
- Fiber: Low
- Protein: Moderate
- Cholesterol: Low