Italian Penicillin Soup

When the sniffles strike or the weather turns cold, nothing beats a steaming bowl of Italian penicillin soup. This traditional Italian comfort dish, also known as Pastina Soup, has been warming hearts and healing bodies for generations. With its nourishing broth, tender vegetables, and tiny star-shaped pasta, this soup delivers the perfect combination of flavor and wellness in every spoonful.

Whether you’re battling a cold, seeking comfort on a chilly evening, or simply craving something wholesome and delicious, Italian penicillin soup stands ready to deliver. This isn’t just any soup—it’s a time-honored remedy that Italian grandmothers have sworn by for decades, and modern home cooks continue to embrace today.

What Is Italian Penicillin Soup?

Italian penicillin soup, affectionately known as Pastina Soup in many Italian households, is a traditional healing soup that has earned its nickname for good reason. Just as penicillin fights infections, this soup has been used for generations as a go-to remedy when someone feels under the weather.

The foundation of this beloved dish consists of a rich, flavorful broth—typically chicken stock or bone broth—simmered with aromatic vegetables and fresh herbs. What sets it apart from other chicken soups is the addition of pastina, those tiny star-shaped pasta pieces that are small enough for even the most delicate appetite.

Essential Ingredients for Italian Penicillin Soup

Creating an authentic Italian penicillin soup requires gathering quality ingredients that work together harmoniously. Here’s everything you’ll need:

The Broth Base

Aromatic Vegetables

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2-3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large onion or 2 shallots, diced
• 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 yellow bell pepper (optional), diced

The Star Ingredient: Pastina

Pastina refers to tiny pasta shapes, with the most traditional being:

• Acini de pepe (tiny peppercorn-shaped pasta)
• Stelline (little stars)
• Orzo (rice-shaped pasta)

You’ll need approximately 1 cup of dried pastina, which will expand as it cooks, creating that signature thick, comforting texture.

Fresh Herbs and Seasonings

• 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese rind (for simmering)
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Optional: ½ teaspoon turmeric

Protein and Finishing Touches

• 2.5-3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works perfectly)
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Fresh peas (optional, ½ cup)

If you’re interested in growing your own herbs for this soup, check out these best herbs to grow at home for fresh ingredients year-round.

How to Make Italian Penicillin Soup: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this healing soup is surprisingly straightforward. The key is allowing enough time for the flavors to develop and meld together. ⏰

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by chopping all vegetables into roughly equal-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes blending easier later. Mince the garlic finely to release maximum flavor. If using fresh herbs, keep them on their stems for easy removal later.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter melts and begins to foam, add:

• Diced onions or shallots
• Chopped carrots
• Chopped celery
• Yellow bell pepper (if using)

Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent. The kitchen should smell absolutely amazing at this point! 😊

Step 3: Add Garlic and Herbs

Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Now add:

• Fresh thyme sprigs
• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Dried oregano
• Bay leaves
• Turmeric (if using)

Stir everything together, allowing the herbs to release their aromatic oils.

Step 4: Add the Broth

Pour in all 8 cups of broth and add the Parmesan cheese rind if you have one. The rind will infuse the soup with incredible umami depth as it simmers. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the broth may already contain salt, and you’ll be adding Parmesan later.

Step 5: Simmer and Develop Flavors

Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes. During this time, the vegetables will become completely tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully. The broth should reduce slightly, concentrating the flavors.

Step 6: Blend for Creaminess

This step is what transforms Italian penicillin soup from a simple broth into a luxuriously creamy comfort food. Remove the herb sprigs, bay leaves, and Parmesan rind.

Using a ladle, transfer about half of the vegetables along with 2-3 cups of broth to a blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot, pulsing to blend only some of the vegetables while leaving others intact for texture.

Pour the blended mixture back into the pot and stir well. The soup should now have a thick, velvety consistency.

Step 7: Add Pastina and Chicken

Bring the soup back to a gentle boil and add the pastina. Stir well to prevent the tiny pasta from clumping together. Cook according to package directions, typically 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.

During the last few minutes of cooking, add the shredded chicken and fresh peas (if using). The chicken just needs to heat through since it’s already cooked.

Step 8: Finish with Brightness

Remove the soup from heat and stir in:

• Zest of 1 lemon for aromatic brightness
• Juice of 1 lemon to balance the rich flavors
• Additional salt and pepper if needed

The lemon transforms the soup, adding a fresh, bright note that cuts through the richness and makes every spoonful more vibrant.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and finish with:

• Generous sprinkles of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley
• A crack of black pepper
• A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil (optional)

Serve immediately while piping hot, preferably with crusty bread for dipping! 🥖

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of Italian penicillin soup lies in its versatility. Here are several ways to adapt the recipe to your preferences and dietary needs:

Vegetarian Italian Penicillin Soup

Simply omit the chicken and use high-quality vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. To maintain protein content, consider adding:

• White beans (cannellini or great northern)
• Chickpeas for heartiness
• Extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach
• Nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy

Gluten-Free Version

Replace traditional pastina with:

• Gluten-free pasta in small shapes
• Rice (white or brown)
• Quinoa for added protein
• Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option

Dairy-Free Adaptation

Skip the butter and Parmesan cheese, or use:

• Dairy-free butter or additional olive oil
• Nutritional yeast for umami flavor
• Dairy-free Parmesan alternatives

Extra Veggie-Packed Version

Boost the vegetable content by adding:

• Spinach or kale (added at the end)
• Zucchini (diced and simmered with other vegetables)
• Mushrooms for earthy depth
• Butternut squash for sweetness and creaminess

Spicy Kick

For those who enjoy heat:

• Add red pepper flakes while sautéing aromatics
• Include fresh ginger alongside the garlic
• Finish with a drizzle of chili oil

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Italian penicillin soup is excellent for meal prep and stores beautifully, making it perfect for busy weeks or keeping on hand when illness strikes.

Refrigerator Storage

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The pastina will continue to absorb liquid, so you may need to add extra broth when reheating.

Pro tip: For best results, store the cooked pastina separately from the broth and combine when serving. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy.

Freezer Storage

Italian penicillin soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Follow these guidelines:

1. Cool the soup completely
2. Transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving 1-2 inches of headspace for expansion
3. Label with the date and contents
4. Freeze flat in freezer bags for space-efficient storage

Important: If freezing, it’s best to add the pastina fresh when reheating, as frozen and reheated pasta can become mushy.

Reheating Instructions

From refrigerator: Transfer to a pot and reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add extra broth or water to thin if needed. Heat until steaming hot throughout.

From frozen: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as above. Alternatively, reheat from frozen over low heat, stirring frequently and adding liquid as needed.

Microwave option: Transfer individual portions to microwave-safe bowls. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot throughout.

Batch Cooking Strategy

Consider making a double batch and freezing half for future use. This ensures you always have healing soup ready when needed—perfect for those days when you’re feeling under the weather and don’t have the energy to cook.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

While Italian penicillin soup is satisfying on its own, these accompaniments can elevate your meal:

Bread Options

• Crusty Italian bread for dipping
• Garlic bread for extra flavor
• Focaccia for a traditional pairing
• Sourdough for tangy contrast

Side Salads

Balance the richness of the soup with a light, fresh salad:

• Simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil
• Mixed greens with balsamic dressing

Protein Additions

If serving as a main course for heartier appetites:

• Italian sausage (cooked separately and sliced)
• Meatballs (mini Italian meatballs)
• Extra rotisserie chicken

Wine Pairings

For a more elegant presentation:

• Pinot Grigio for white wine lovers
• Light Chianti for red wine enthusiasts
• Prosecco for a celebratory touch

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought broth?
Yes, absolutely! While homemade bone broth offers maximum nutrition, high-quality store-bought chicken or vegetable broth works well. Look for low-sodium options so you can control the salt level.

What if I can’t find pastina?
Substitute with other small pasta shapes like orzo, ditalini, or even broken angel hair pasta. In a pinch, rice or quinoa also work well.

Is this soup suitable for babies and toddlers?
Yes, with modifications. Reduce salt significantly, ensure all ingredients are age-appropriate, and adjust consistency as needed. Always consult with your pediatrician about introducing new foods.

How can I make this soup more filling?
Add more protein (extra chicken, white beans, or chickpeas), increase the pastina amount, or serve with hearty bread and a side salad.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Sauté aromatics first, then transfer everything except the pastina to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add pastina during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Why is my soup cloudy?
This is normal and actually desirable! The cloudiness comes from the gelatin and nutrients released from the bones in the broth—it’s a sign of a high-quality, nutritious soup.

Conclusion: Embrace the Healing Power of Italian Penicillin Soup

Italian penicillin soup represents more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition of care, a celebration of simple ingredients, and a testament to the healing power of home-cooked food. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, seeking comfort on a chilly evening, or simply looking for a nutritious meal that tastes incredible, this soup delivers on every level.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and accessibility. With basic ingredients and straightforward techniques, anyone can create a pot of this nourishing soup that rivals what any Italian grandmother might prepare. The combination of rich broth, tender vegetables, healing herbs, and comforting pastina creates something truly special—a bowl of wellness that feeds both body and soul.

Your Next Steps

Ready to experience the magic of Italian penicillin soup? Here’s what to do:

1. Gather your ingredients from the list above, focusing on the highest quality broth you can find or make
2. Set aside an hour for preparation and cooking—consider making it a mindful cooking experience
3. Prepare a double batch so you can freeze half for future use
4. Share the love by making a pot for someone who could use comfort and nourishment
5. Make it your own by experimenting with different herbs, vegetables, and personal touches

Remember, the best Italian penicillin soup is the one that brings you comfort and nourishment. Don’t be afraid to adjust the recipe to suit your tastes, dietary needs, and what you have available. The spirit of this soup is about care and healing, not perfection.

As you enjoy your first spoonful of homemade Italian penicillin soup, you’re participating in a tradition that spans generations and continents—a simple yet profound act of self-care and nourishment. Here’s to your health, comfort, and the timeless wisdom of Italian cooking!