Hi there! I’m Clara, and Italian Penicillin Soup always feels like returning home when I’m under the weather. I still remember a cold winter when Nonna stirred pastina into simmering broth, the garlic and carrots scent filling the kitchen it healed more than my throat. In this article, you’ll discover what makes Italian Penicillin Soup feel like a remedy: its signature small pasta, rich broth, blended veggies, and simple proteins. You’ll also get detailed steps, variations (vegan, gluten-free etc.), serving and storage tips. Whether you’re nursing a cold or craving comfort, this soup delivers both flavor and care.
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Italian Penicillin Soup : A Healing Bowl of Comfort
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Italian Penicillin Soup is the ultimate comfort food—a soothing blend of pastina, rich broth, tender vegetables, and simple proteins that feels like a warm remedy in every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 Parmesan rind (optional)
- 1 cup pastina or acini di pepe pasta
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot.
- Sauté onion, carrot, and celery until softened.
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Pour in broth and add Parmesan rind if using.
- Simmer for 15–20 minutes to build flavor.
- Add pastina and cook until tender.
- Stir in shredded chicken or alternative protein if desired.
- Season with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with optional Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or quinoa. For vegan, use vegetable broth and skip chicken and Parmesan. To store, refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze broth and pasta separately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Origins & Essence of Italian Penicillin Soup
Why We Call It “Penicillin”
Italian Penicillin Soup has earned its name because it’s the kind of bowl you turn to when nothing else seems to comfort. Just like chicken noodle soup is a staple in many American homes, this dish is rooted in Italian kitchens where pastina was the cure for almost everything. The tradition goes back to nonnas across Italy, who would prepare tiny pasta simmered in broth whenever someone felt sick or needed extra nourishment. Unlike heavier meals, the light broth and delicate pastina are easy to digest, making it the perfect recipe when you’re under the weather. That’s why Italian Penicillin Soup isn’t just food it’s a remedy wrapped in flavor.
Key Ingredients that Define the Soup
The beauty of Italian Penicillin Soup lies in its simplicity. A base of onion, carrot, and celery builds flavor while garlic adds warmth. The broth, often chicken-based but easily adapted to vegetable stock, gives the soup its restorative depth. Pastina or acini di pepe pasta provides the silky body that makes each spoonful so comforting. Many families also slip in a Parmesan rind, letting it melt slowly into the pot for richness. Shredded chicken brings protein, though vegetarian versions are just as delicious.
Each element works together to create a soup that feels both hearty and healing, the kind of dish that turns bad days into better ones. For more cozy classics, you can explore other soup recipes on my site or try pairing it with a comforting chicken-based dinner for a complete meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Preparing the Base: Vegetables & Broth
The first step in making Italian Penicillin Soup is creating a flavorful base. Start by heating a splash of olive oil in a large pot, then sauté onion, carrot, and celery until soft and fragrant. Garlic goes in next, releasing an aroma that instantly makes the kitchen feel warm and inviting. Once the vegetables are tender, pour in the broth chicken stock for a classic version or vegetable broth for a lighter alternative. Bring it to a gentle simmer so the flavors blend. This stage is key because the longer the broth mingles with the vegetables, the richer the soup becomes. For more ideas on building a flavorful base, check out my guide to easy homemade soup techniques.
Adding Pasta and Protein
Once your broth is simmering, it’s time to add the star ingredient: pastina. Because this pasta cooks quickly, add it toward the end so it stays tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and let the tiny shapes soak up the savory broth. At this point, shredded chicken can be stirred in for protein, or you can keep the soup vegetarian by adding extra veggies like zucchini or spinach. Another option is to toss in chickpeas for added texture and nutrients. Remember to season gently with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley, allowing the natural flavors to shine.
If you enjoy hearty comfort foods, you’ll also love my weeknight chicken comfort meals, which share the same spirit of warmth as Italian Penicillin Soup.
Variations & Dietary Adaptations
Gluten-Free, Vegan, or Low-Sodium Versions
One of the best things about Italian Penicillin Soup is how adaptable it can be. If you need it gluten-free, simply swap the traditional pastina for gluten-free pasta or even small grains like quinoa. For a vegan version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock and leave out Parmesan rind. A drizzle of olive oil before serving adds richness without dairy. Low-sodium eaters can choose unsalted broth and let fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil bring the flavor forward. This way, everyone can enjoy a bowl that feels both nourishing and suited to their needs. You’ll find more inspiration for plant-based options in my collection of vegetarian soup recipes or in other healthy weeknight dinners.
Flavor Twists & Ingredient Additions
Beyond the traditional recipe, Italian Penicillin Soup can be a canvas for creative touches. Some cooks add turmeric or ginger to give it an immune-boosting kick, while others blend part of the vegetables into the broth for a creamier finish. You might stir in baby spinach or kale at the end for a bright green pop. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice also lifts the flavors instantly. The variations are endless, and they’re all about tailoring the soup to what comforts you most. For more creative spins, explore my seasonal comfort food recipes or try pairing it with one of my homemade bread recipes for a complete cozy meal.
Serving, Storage & When to Turn to This Soup
How to Serve for Maximum Comfort
Italian Penicillin Soup shines brightest when served steaming hot in a deep bowl that can hold all its comforting broth and pasta. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dusting of Parmesan makes each serving feel complete. For extra richness, drizzle a touch of good olive oil on top before bringing it to the table. Many families pair this soup with crusty bread or a light salad, which makes the meal feel balanced without being heavy. If you’re looking for other cozy sides, you can explore my easy homemade bread recipes or check out my Italian-inspired family meals for pairings that complement this dish perfectly.
Storing & Reheating; Best Times to Make It
When it comes to leftovers, Italian Penicillin Soup is easy to store. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you plan to freeze it, store the broth and chicken separately from the pastina to prevent the pasta from becoming too soft. When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it feels too thick. This way, the flavors stay bright and fresh. The best times to make this soup are on chilly evenings, during cold and flu season, or any day you crave a bowl of comfort. It’s as fitting for a sick day remedy as it is for a quick weeknight dinner.
For more meal prep ideas, browse my healthy make-ahead recipes or try one of my family-friendly soups that keep well for busy weeks.
FAQs
What is Italian Penicillin Soup?
Italian Penicillin Soup is a traditional comfort food made with broth, vegetables, and tiny pasta like pastina or acini di pepe. It gets its nickname “penicillin” because families often serve it when someone feels sick, much like chicken noodle soup in American households. Its light texture, nourishing broth, and easy-to-digest pasta make it both healing and comforting.
How do I make Italian Penicillin Soup healthier / adapt it for special diets?
It’s simple to customize this dish. For gluten-free eaters, swap pastina for gluten-free pasta or rice. Vegans can use vegetable broth and skip Parmesan. Low-sodium versions work beautifully with unsalted broth and fresh herbs for flavor. Each adaptation keeps the soup’s comforting essence intact while making it more accessible.
How long does Italian Penicillin Soup take to prep and cook?
Most recipes require 10–15 minutes of prep and about 20–30 minutes of cooking. If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked shredded chicken or chopped vegetables can cut the cooking process even further. From start to finish, a hearty pot of Italian Penicillin Soup can be on the table in under 45 minutes.
What’s the best way to store and reheat Italian Penicillin Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. For freezing, keep the pasta separate from the broth to maintain texture. To reheat, warm gently on the stove, adding a little broth or water if needed to thin it out. This keeps the flavors bright and the pasta tender.
Conclusion
Italian Penicillin Soup is more than a recipe it’s a tradition passed down through generations. Its simplicity, warmth, and adaptability make it a go-to dish whether you’re sick, cold, or just in need of a little comfort. The tiny pasta, nourishing broth, and gentle vegetables work together to create a meal that soothes body and soul. With endless variations to suit every diet, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and again. Next time you’re craving a cozy bowl, let Italian Penicillin Soup remind you that healing can be as simple as a spoonful of love.
If you’re looking for another family-friendly idea, check out my Facebook for fresh new recipes, cooking tips, and food inspiration every week!