Italian Penicillin Soup: A Healing Bowl of Comfort and Flavor

 Ingredients

• • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
  • 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: grated Parmesan cheese

 Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Ladle

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. . Sauté the Aromatics
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–7 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
2. . Add the Potatoes and Herbs
   Stir in the diced potato, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Cook for 2–3 minutes to release the herbs’ flavor.
3. . Pour in the Broth
   Add broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until potatoes and carrots are tender.
4. . Add the Greens and Zucchini
   Stir in zucchini and kale (or spinach). Simmer another 5–7 minutes, just until greens are wilted.
5. . Finish with Lemon and Seasoning
   Remove the bay leaf. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. . Serve and Garnish
   Ladle into bowls, top with fresh parsley, and sprinkle with Parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the soothing aroma filling your kitchen.

 Why It’s Called “Penicillin Soup”

This comforting Italian classic gets its nickname from the immune-boosting ingredients that make it feel like natural penicillin. Garlic and onions fight off bacteria, lemon helps with vitamin absorption, and nutrient-packed greens restore energy. It’s the ultimate feel-better food — flavorful, wholesome, and healing.

Tips for the Perfect Soup

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme make the broth extra aromatic.
• Don’t overcook greens: Add them at the end to keep their color and nutrients.
• Choose your broth: Vegetable for a lighter, vegetarian option; chicken for a heartier flavor.
• Make ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day!