How to Make the Perfect Italian Penicillin Soup (italian Past)

This is a warm and comforting Vegan Italian Penicillin Soup, also known as Italian Pastina Soup. It’s made with plant-based ingredients, featuring a flavorful broth crafted from veggies, herbs, and a hint of vegan parm. This cozy soup is perfect for picky eaters as the veggies are blended for a smooth texture. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and fits a Whole Food Plant Based, Vegan, oil-free, refined sugar-free, and gluten-free lifestyle. A delicious go-to soup your family will love!

Why Make Quick and Easy Pastina?

Pastina is my go-to comfort food for three simple reasons:

1. It’s a one-pot meal – less dishes!
2. Takes less than 30 minutes to make – quick and easy.
3. Ultimate comfort – perfect for any mood or picky eaters.

Ingredients 

Base Ingredients:

• 8 cups water
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth *
• 1 large yellow onion, quartered
• 3 carrots, peeled, cut into chunks
• 2 celery ribs, cut into chunks
• 4 garlic cloves, peeled, slightly smashed

Soup Base Spice/Herb Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 bay leaves
• ½ to 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt (+/-) * 

Added Spice/Herb Ingredients:

• ¼ teaspoon Italian Seasoning *
• ¼ teaspoon dried crushed thyme leaves *
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1/8 teaspoon poultry seasoning *
• 1/8 teaspoon sweet paprika
• Pinch dried rosemary
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Other Ingredients:

• ¼ cup Vegan Parmesan Cheese
• 2 Tablespoon miso (optional) *
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• Cooked small pasta of choice (pastina, orzo, couscous, etc.) *

Optional Toppings:

• Generous sprinkle Vegan Parmesan Cheese
• Freshly chopped parsley

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INSTRUCTIONS

1. Place the Soup Base Spice/Herb Ingredients (except the bay leaf) in a small bowl, mix well, set aside.
2. Place the Added Spice/Herb Ingredients in a small bowl, mix well, set aside.
3. Add all the Base Ingredients and Soup Base Spice/Herb Mix into a large stock pot, stir well to combine, then add in the bay leaves, bring to a boil, then immediately lower to simmer. Cover the pot ajar with the lid and simmer for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, the veggies should be very soft, and the liquids have reduced.
4. Strain out all the soft veggies with a slotted spoon into a high-speed blender, being careful to not include the bay leaves. One all the veggies are moved to the blender, add about 1 ½ cups of the broth to the blender. Blend on high until the mixture is very smooth, approximately 2 minutes, then return the blended mixture to the soup pot (with the remaining broth) and stir well to incorporate.
5. Next, add the Added Spice/Herb Mix to the soup, along with lemon juice, miso, and Vegan Parmesan Cheese. Simmer for 10 minutes.
6. In the meantime, boil the pasta of choice according to package directions, strain, and rinse well with cold water. Set aside.
7. To serve, add a generous portion of the cooked pasta to the bottom of a soup bowl, ladle the hot broth over top, sprinkle generously with Vegan Parmesan Cheese and some freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy!

NUTRITION

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

This Italian Pastina Soup is a tasty twist on the classic recipe, known as Italian Penicillin Soup. Here’s the lowdown:

1. Traditional Roots

• It’s like Chicken Noodle Soup for Italians, often enjoyed when feeling under the weather.
• The usual recipe includes chicken stock, tiny pasta, and lots of Parmesan Cheese.

2. Pasta Choices

• Acini di Pepe pasta is the classic pick, but orzo, little stars, couscous, or gluten-free options also work.
• Cook extra pasta for later use (see note on From Fridge to Table).

3. Hearty Pasta Ratio

• This soup is pasta-heavy, with just enough broth to keep it comforting.

4. Blending Tips

• Use a blender, food processor, or immersion blender after removing bay leaves for a smooth texture.
• Don’t blend bay leaves; put them back in afterward.

5. Flavor Boosters

• After blending, add herbs to avoid bitterness.
• Miso is optional but adds a savory kick.
• Poultry seasoning and Italian seasoning bring flavor without actual poultry.

6. Vegan Parmesan Magic

• Vegan Parmesan Cheese is a must for richness. Use your favorite recipe.

7. Pasta Separation Wisdom

• Cook pasta separately to keep it from getting mushy, especially with gluten-free options.
• Serve pasta and broth separately, following the Italian tradition.

8. Meal Prep Ease

• Perfect for meal prep. Keep pasta and broth apart. Reheat by running pasta under hot water, placing it in a bowl, ladling hot broth over, and microwaving or heating in a pot.

This recipe gives you a cozy, plant-based take on the classic Italian comfort soup. Enjoy!

What to Serve with Pastina Soup

Pastina soup is a complete meal on its own, so you don’t need additional side dishes. However, if you want to add some freshness, you can go for an easy lemon parmesan lettuce salad or a simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.

Conclusion

In summary, making the perfect Italian Penicillin Soup (Pastina soup) is a simple one-pot process. It’s a satisfying meal on its own, but if you want a fresh touch, pair it with a lemon parmesan lettuce salad or a basic green salad with balsamic vinaigrette. Enjoy the comfort and ease of this classic Italian dish.

FAQs

1. What is Italian Penicillin Soup? Italian Penicillin Soup, or Pastina soup, is a comforting and healing dish from Italy.
2. Why is it called the “perfect” soup? The perfect Italian Penicillin Soup is known for its well-balanced flavors and a delicious mix of broth and small pasta.
3. Can I customize the ingredients? Yes, you can personalize the soup by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the seasoning.
4. Is it a one-pot meal? Yes, Pastina soup is a convenient one-pot dish.
5. Do I need sides with it? While it’s satisfying on its own, you can pair it with a simple lemon parmesan lettuce salad or a green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
6. Can I make it ahead? Yes, making it in advance and reheating works well.
7. Are there different versions? Absolutely! You can try variations with different vegetables, meats, or pasta types.
8. How long does it take to make? It usually takes 30-45 minutes, making it a quick meal.
9. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze Pastina soup in an airtight container.
10. Is it suitable for all seasons? Yes, Pastina soup is versatile and can be enjoyed throughout the year.