Hi there! I’m Michael, the heart behind FoodyDish! Have you ever felt that first tickle in your throat, that tell-tale sign of a cold coming on? We’ve all been there, frantically searching for relief while feeling worse by the minute. That’s exactly why I’m excited to share my Italian Penicillin Soup recipe with you today a warming, immune-boosting bowl that’s earned its nickname for good reason!
This healing Italian Penicillin Soup delivers a powerful punch of garlic, herbs, and nourishing broth that helps clear congestion and soothe sore throats. After years of perfecting this recipe during Minnesota’s brutal winter seasons, I can confidently say this soup works wonders when you’re under the weather.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover why this soup is so effective, ingredient selection tips, step-by-step preparation, and even variations to suit your specific needs. Let’s transform your next sick day with a remedy that’s as delicious as it is therapeutic!
Why This Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe Works
This isn’t just any chicken soup Italian Penicillin Soup takes the healing properties of traditional chicken soup and amplifies them with strategic Italian-inspired ingredients:
• Uses simple, immune-boosting ingredients you likely already have at home
• Comes together in one pot for easy preparation when you’re feeling unwell
• Provides hydration, nutrition, and comfort in a single warming bowl
• Features scientifically-backed ingredients like garlic and herbs with antimicrobial properties
• Can be made ahead and frozen for cold-season preparedness
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Italian Penicillin Soup
Best Base for Your Healing Soup
For truly effective Italian Penicillin Soup, start with high-quality bone broth. Homemade is ideal, as the slow simmering of bones releases collagen, minerals, and amino acids that support immune function. If using store-bought, look for low-sodium options with minimal additives you’ll be adding plenty of flavor yourself!
Immune-Boosting Aromatics
The power of this soup comes from its aromatic base:
• Garlic (6+ cloves): Contains allicin, a compound with antimicrobial and antiviral properties
• Onions: Rich in quercetin, which has antihistamine effects
• Carrots: Provide beta-carotene for immune support
• Celery: Adds anti-inflammatory compounds
Healing Herbs for Italian Penicillin Soup
Traditional Italian herbs do more than flavor this soup they provide medicinal benefits:
• Fresh rosemary: Contains rosmarinic acid with decongestant properties
• Thyme: Natural expectorant that helps clear respiratory passages
• Oregano: Has natural antibacterial qualities
• Fresh parsley: Adds vitamin C and brightens flavors
Ingredients & Prep for Italian Penicillin Soup
Soup Base Essentials
- 10 cups chicken bone broth (homemade preferred)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 8 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup small pasta (like orzo or stelline)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Finishing Touches
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped
- Parmesan rind (optional, for deeper flavor)
- Fresh parmesan for serving
Step-by-Step Italian Penicillin Soup Cooking Instructions
Pre-Cooking Prep for Italian Penicillin Soup
- Wash and chop all vegetables into small, even pieces for faster cooking and easy eating.
- Mince garlic and let it rest for 10 minutes before cooking this activates the allicin compounds.
- Measure and prepare all herbs and seasonings so they’re ready to add at the right moment.
- If using homemade broth, skim any fat from the surface for a clearer soup.
Cooking Method for Italian Penicillin Soup
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent (about 4-5 minutes).
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add carrots and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Pour in broth, add bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Add pasta and cook according to package directions, usually 8-10 minutes.
Final Touches for Italian Penicillin Soup
- Once pasta is al dente, remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
- Discard bay leaves and parmesan rind if used.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Stir in fresh parsley just before serving.
Serving Your Healing Italian Penicillin Soup
Serve your soup hot in warmed bowls. For maximum therapeutic benefit, inhale the aromatic steam before eating this helps open nasal passages. Top with freshly grated parmesan and additional fresh herbs if desired.
Pro Tips for Perfect Italian Penicillin Soup
Maximizing Healing Properties
- Add fresh ginger (1-2 tablespoons grated) for additional anti-inflammatory benefits
- Include a parmesan rind during simmering for depth of flavor and added protein
- Crush garlic and let it sit 10-15 minutes before cooking to maximize allicin formation
- For severe congestion, increase red pepper flakes to help clear sinuses
Tool Recommendations
- Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot for even heat distribution
- Microplane for garlic, ginger, and fresh parmesan
- Immersion blender to partially blend soup for a creamier texture (optional)
Storage & Reheating
- Cool completely before refrigerating for up to 3 days
- Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months in airtight containers
- When reheating, add fresh lemon juice and herbs to revive flavors
Looking for more comforting recipes? Check out my Pinterest board for inspiration! Follow FoodyDish on Pinterest for a collection of healing, delicious recipes perfect for every season.
Flavor Variations for Italian Penicillin Soup
Extra-Strength Immune Boost
- Add 1 tablespoon fresh grated turmeric root for anti-inflammatory properties
- Stir in 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar for added probiotic benefits
- Include sliced shiitake mushrooms for additional immune support
Vegetarian Version
- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth
- Add 1 cup cooked white beans for protein
- Include nutritional yeast for a savory, cheese-like flavor
Regional Italian Twists
| Region | Key Ingredients | Special Technique |
|---|---|---|
| Tuscany | Kale, cannellini beans | Finish with fruity olive oil |
| Sicily | Lemon, fennel, capers | Add pinch of saffron |
| Lombardy | Arborio rice instead of pasta | Finish with butter and sage |
| Calabria | More red pepper, oregano | Add a piece of parmesan rind |
Serving Suggestions for Italian Penicillin Soup
When you’re fighting a cold, simple accompaniments work best:
- Serve with warm crusty bread for dipping into the broth
- Pair with a simple side salad dressed with lemon and olive oil for added vitamin C
- For a complete meal, add a poached egg on top for extra protein
- Hydrate further with hot herbal tea with lemon and honey
FAQs About Italian Penicillin Soup
Q: Can I make this Italian Penicillin Soup in advance?
A: Absolutely! In fact, the flavors develop beautifully overnight. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Q: Is Italian Penicillin Soup safe for pregnant women?
A: Yes, this soup is safe and nutritious during pregnancy. Just ensure all ingredients are thoroughly cooked and the soup reaches a safe temperature.
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
A: While fresh herbs provide the most therapeutic benefits, dried herbs work too. Use 1 teaspoon dried for each tablespoon of fresh herb called for in the recipe.
Q: How can I make this soup more filling?
A: Add extra pasta, white beans, or cooked shredded chicken to make it more substantial while maintaining its healing properties.
Q: Can children eat Italian Penicillin Soup?
A: Yes! This is perfect for children with colds. For sensitive palates, reduce the garlic and eliminate red pepper flakes.
Your Road to Recovery Starts Here
There’s a reason Italian grandmothers have been making versions of this soup for generations it works! The combination of immune-supporting ingredients, warm broth, and aromatic herbs creates the perfect remedy for cold and flu season.
Next time you feel that first sniffle coming on, don’t wait gather your ingredients and put this Italian Penicillin Soup on the stove. Your body and taste buds will thank you!
Remember, while this soup can help ease symptoms, be sure to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and consult your healthcare provider if symptoms are severe or persistent.
Happy cooking and swift healing!
Print
Italian Penicillin Soup: Your Ultimate Cold-Busting Recipe
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A nourishing, immune-boosting Italian penicillin soup a Mediterranean twist on the classic chicken soup. Loaded with garlic, lemon, olive oil, fresh herbs, and tender chicken, it’s the perfect comforting cure for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup cooked shredded chicken
1/2 cup small pasta (like ditalini or orzo)
1 lemon, juiced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: grated Parmesan cheese and extra olive oil for serving
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Stir in oregano, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Add pasta and cook until tender, about 8–10 minutes.
6. Stir in shredded chicken and heat through.
7. Add lemon juice and chopped parsley; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil and Parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
For a heartier version, add spinach, kale, or cannellini beans.
Use leftover rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience.
Freezes beautifully — store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Italian penicillin soup, lemon chicken soup, immune boosting soup, Mediterranean comfort food