This comforting Italian Penicillin soup is a nourishing and hearty dish made with a rich chicken bone broth, vegetables, and small pasta like pastina or orzo. The addition of Parmesan cheese, butter, and a hint of lemon gives it a luxurious depth of flavor. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm, healing meal, this soup is reminiscent of classic Italian home cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nourishing and healing – Made with chicken bone broth and turmeric, this soup is packed with nutrients and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Rich and flavorful – Parmesan and butter add a creamy and comforting touch.
- Customizable – You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect for all seasons – While great for cold days, its light yet hearty nature makes it enjoyable year-round.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Butter
- Celery, diced
- Carrot, diced
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Pastina or orzo
- Chicken bone broth
- Turmeric
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Egg, thoroughly whisked
- Optional: fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon
Directions
Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced celery, carrot, and onion, and sauté until softened.
Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Simmer the Broth
Pour in the chicken bone broth and add the turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Cook the Pasta
Add the pastina (or orzo) to the pot and cook until al dente, following the package instructions.
Enrich with Parmesan and Butter
Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and the additional 2 tablespoons of butter, mixing until fully melted and incorporated. Let the soup cool for a few minutes.
Incorporate the Egg
Slowly drizzle the whisked egg into the soup while stirring continuously to create a silky texture.
Finish with Fresh Flavors
Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright and refreshing finish.
Serve
Ladle into bowls and enjoy your homemade Italian Penicillin warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories per serving: 250 kcal
Variations
- Make it heartier: Add shredded chicken or cooked sausage for extra protein.
- Vegetarian option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken bone broth and add chickpeas for protein.
- Spicy twist: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Creamier version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer texture.
- Gluten-free: Swap out pastina or orzo for gluten-free pasta or rice.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen if needed. Stir gently to maintain the creamy texture.
FAQs
What is Italian Penicillin soup?
Italian Penicillin is a comforting soup made with chicken bone broth, small pasta, and Parmesan, known for its healing and nourishing properties.
Can I use regular chicken broth instead of bone broth?
Yes, but bone broth adds extra nutrients and depth of flavor.
What can I substitute for pastina?
Orzo, acini di pepe, ditalini, or even couscous work well.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
How do I prevent the egg from scrambling in the soup?
Slowly drizzle the whisked egg while stirring continuously to create a silky texture.
Is this soup good for colds?
Yes! With its nourishing broth, garlic, turmeric, and lemon, it's great for soothing colds and boosting immunity.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Omit the Parmesan and use olive oil instead of butter.
What does the lemon do in this soup?
It brightens the flavors and adds a fresh contrast to the rich broth.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Zucchini, spinach, or kale would be great additions.
How can I make this soup thicker?
Let it simmer a bit longer, or mash some of the vegetables for a heartier consistency.
Conclusion
Italian Penicillin soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for when you need something warm, nourishing, and packed with flavor. Whether you're feeling under the weather or just want a cozy meal, this simple yet delicious recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it with fresh bread on the side and enjoy a taste of Italian home cooking!
