Authentic, Italian Penicillin Soup Recipe

If you’re searching for a soul-soothing bowl that bursts with comforting flavors, you have to try this Authentic, Italian Penicillin Soup. This recipe brings together tender chicken, tiny pasta pearls, and a rich blend of vegetables simmered with a Parmesan rind for an irresistible depth of taste. It’s a heartwarming dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, perfect for sharing or savoring any time you want a bowl of genuine Italian comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be intimidated by the list—each ingredient is simple yet crucial, contributing to the beautiful balance of flavors, textures, and colors that make this soup a standout. The fresh vegetables create a bright base, while the Parmesan rind adds an unexpected depth, and the acini di pepe pasta brings a playful, delicate bite.

• 4 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This adds a fruity, rich base and helps sauté the vegetables perfectly.
• 1 Tbsp Butter: For that silky texture and buttery aroma that lifts the soup.
• 1 Large Onion, chopped fine: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the broth.
• 1 Shallot, chopped fine: Brings a subtle, complex onion flavor that’s essential here.
• 6 Celery Stalks, diced small: Provides crunch and a fresh herbal note, balancing richness.
• 4 Cloves Garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with warmth and a delightful punch.
• 5-6 Medium Carrots, diced small: Their natural sweetness rounds out the savory flavors.
• 1 Parmesan Rind: The secret weapon that adds an irresistible umami richness.
• 8 Cups Chicken Broth: Forms the flavorful, comforting base of the soup.
• 1/3 Cup Uncooked Acini di Pepe: Tiny pasta pearls that bring texture without overpowering.
• 2-3 Cups Shredded Chicken (preferably rotisserie): Adds protein and heartiness.
• Parmesan, for grating: The perfect finishing touch for creaminess and saltiness.
• Finely Chopped Italian Parsley, for topping: A fresh, vibrant burst of color and flavor.

How to Make Authentic, Italian Penicillin Soup

Step 1: Prepare and Sauté the Vegetables

Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. In a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or large soup pot, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, shallot, and celery, stirring frequently. Sauté these until they soften and begin to turn translucent, about 3 to 5 minutes, releasing their natural sweetness and aromas that form the heart of this soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Build Flavor

Once the onion mixture starts to brown, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for another three minutes until fragrant. The garlic will brighten the base, layering in complexity and warmth that is so essential for this Authentic, Italian Penicillin Soup.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth, Carrots, and Parmesan Rind

Pour in the full 8 cups of chicken broth. For an even richer flavor, use homemade broth made from boiling chicken thighs to shred later. Add the diced carrots and the Parmesan rind now. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. This slow simmer melds the flavors beautifully, with the Parmesan rind slowly imparting its savory richness to every spoonful.

Step 4: Blend and Add Pasta

Turn off the heat and carefully remove about 2 cups of the cooked vegetables; reserve these for later. Using an immersion blender or regular blender in batches, blend the soup until it becomes luxuriously smooth. The rind should blend in to thicken and flavor the broth wonderfully. Next, stir in the acini di pepe pasta and bring the soup back to a boil. Cook according to pasta package directions, about 9 minutes until tender but still holding its shape.

Step 5: Finish with Chicken and Veggies

When the pasta is almost done, remove from heat and stir in the shredded chicken and the reserved cooked vegetables. Cover with a lid and allow the soup to rest for 20 to 25 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors marry beautifully and the heat gently rewarms everything for that perfect bowl of comfort.

How to Serve Authentic, Italian Penicillin Soup

Garnishes

Don’t skip the garnishes—they’re what take this soup from amazing to unforgettable. A generous grating of fresh Parmesan cheese enhances creaminess and saltiness, while a sprinkle of finely chopped Italian parsley adds freshness and color. These simple touches add that extra bit of love to your bowl.

Side Dishes

This soup shines best when paired with crusty Italian bread, perfect for dipping and soaking up every flavorful drop. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette also makes a refreshing side, balancing the richness of the soup. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a light antipasto platter.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this Authentic, Italian Penicillin Soup in rustic Italian bowls with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top for a glossy finish. You can also add a few crispy pancetta bits or toasted pine nuts as crunchy toppings to introduce delightful texture contrast. For a cozy touch, serve it in mini cast iron pots for guests—presentation really makes this dish feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep it covered tightly to preserve freshness. The flavors often deepen after resting, making leftovers potentially even tastier the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Before freezing, consider cooking the pasta separately as it can become mushy after thawing. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it back to the perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought chicken broth?

Absolutely! While homemade broth adds extra depth, good-quality store-bought chicken broth works perfectly well in this Authentic, Italian Penicillin Soup without compromising flavor.

Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Yes! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the shredded chicken. You can add beans or mushrooms for extra protein and umami, creating a delicious vegetarian twist.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Acini di pepe is traditional and unique for texture, but you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini if you can’t find it.

Why add the Parmesan rind?

The Parmesan rind infuses the soup with deep, savory umami notes that elevate the broth’s richness naturally, making this soup truly authentic and Italian in character.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Definitely! You can make most of the soup ahead of time, just add the pasta and chicken fresh on the day you plan to serve for the best texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Making this Authentic, Italian Penicillin Soup feels like inviting a warm, flavorful Italian tradition right into your kitchen. It’s comforting, nourishing, and wonderfully satisfying—perfect for any day you need a little extra love in your bowl. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become one of your favorite go-to soups for cozy meals and happy hearts. Enjoy every spoonful!

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