Italian Penicillin Soup

Italian Penicillin Soup, affectionately known as “pastina soup,” is a beloved Italian comfort food cherished for its soothing qualities. This nourishing soup combines a rich chicken bone broth with tender vegetables, small pasta, and a hint of Parmesan, creating a warm and healing meal. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving a cozy dish, this soup offers both comfort and flavor in every spoonful.

The addition of turmeric and lemon juice not only enhances the soup’s vibrant color but also adds a subtle depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. With its quick preparation time and customizable ingredients, Italian Penicillin Soup is perfect for busy weeknights or as a make-ahead meal for the week. Pair it with crusty bread and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a complete and satisfying meal.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 2 large carrots, peeled and diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 cups low-sodium chicken bone broth

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• ¾ cup pastina (or orzo)

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced (use leftover rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

• 1 large egg, thoroughly whisked

• Optional: fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice

Directions:

1. In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Pour in the chicken bone broth, add salt and black pepper, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

4. Add the pastina (or orzo) to the pot and cook until al dente, following the package instructions, approximately 9 minutes.

5. Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the additional 2 tablespoons of butter until fully melted and incorporated.

6. Slowly drizzle the whisked egg into the soup while stirring continuously to create a silky texture.

7. Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added brightness.

8. Ladle into bowls and serve warm.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal per serving
Servings: 4 servings

Introduction to Italian Penicillin Soup

Italian Penicillin Soup, fondly named for its nurturing and restorative qualities, is an age-old dish deeply rooted in Italian home cooking traditions. It’s often the first thing many Italians think of when someone in the family is feeling under the weather. This soothing soup has earned its charming nickname thanks to its comforting, almost medicinal properties. Steaming, flavorful, and rich in nutrients, it’s a meal that not only satisfies hunger but also nurtures the body and soul.

While there are many cultural variations of chicken soup around the world, Italian Penicillin Soup stands out due to its use of pastina (tiny pasta), bone broth, and a mix of vegetables that come together to create a dish that’s both hearty and easy to digest. What makes it even more special is how customizable and accessible it is. Whether you’re using leftovers or making it from scratch, the result is always a bowl of goodness.

The History and Cultural Significance

The idea of using warm broth-based dishes for healing goes back centuries, but in Italian households, this concept has a particularly affectionate twist. Many Italian nonnas (grandmothers) believe that pastina is not just food, but medicine. This belief has been passed down through generations, and it’s not uncommon to hear someone say, “Eat your pastina; it will make you feel better.”

The dish gained popularity during the 20th century as Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the U.S. Over time, it became a cherished recipe in both Italian and non-Italian households. The nostalgic connection people have with this soup is strong—it reminds many of their childhood, a warm kitchen, and being lovingly cared for when they were ill.

What Makes It ‘Penicillin’?

Though not a substitute for actual antibiotics, the nickname “Italian Penicillin” is a nod to the soup’s perceived healing properties. It’s warm, hydrating, and easy on the stomach, making it ideal for those feeling under the weather. The ingredients often include garlic, onions, and chicken broth—all known for their immune-boosting effects.

Garlic, in particular, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Paired with a rich, collagen-heavy bone broth and nourishing vegetables, the soup supports hydration, soothes sore throats, and provides an energy boost when the body is in recovery mode.

Pastina – The Heart of the Soup

Pastina, meaning “little pasta” in Italian, is at the core of this dish. It comes in various tiny shapes, including stars, dots, and rice-like grains. Its small size makes it quick to cook and ideal for people who need a light, easy-to-eat meal. Children, in particular, love pastina, which is why the soup is often associated with childhood and home care.

While traditional pastina is made with semolina flour, gluten-free options are also available, making the dish inclusive for those with dietary restrictions. If pastina isn’t available, orzo or even small macaroni can serve as substitutes without compromising the dish’s comfort factor.

Chicken and Broth – The Nourishing Base

The base of the soup is typically a homemade or store-bought chicken bone broth. The benefits of using bone broth are numerous: it’s high in protein, collagen, and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. When simmered slowly, it develops a rich, full-bodied flavor that forms the perfect canvas for the other ingredients.

Cooked, shredded chicken is added either from leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken, making it convenient and efficient. Not only does this reduce waste, but it also allows the soup to come together quickly—a major advantage for busy families or anyone who isn’t feeling up to a lengthy cooking session.

Vegetables and Aromatics – Flavor and Nutrition

Onions, celery, and carrots—the classic “soffritto” trio—are sautéed to form the aromatic foundation of this soup. Each one contributes essential flavor and nutrients. Carrots bring a touch of sweetness and are high in beta-carotene, which supports immune function. Celery adds a fresh, slightly peppery taste, while onions and garlic provide depth and their well-known medicinal benefits.

These vegetables are not only flavorful but also low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins, making the soup a complete and balanced meal. Some versions of the soup even include turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, giving the broth a golden hue and an extra health boost.

The Parmesan and Egg Finish – Italian Touches of Richness

A key feature that sets Italian Penicillin Soup apart from other chicken soups is the finishing touch: grated Parmesan cheese and a whisked egg. When stirred in at the end, the cheese melts into the broth, adding umami and richness. The egg, gently drizzled in while stirring, creates delicate ribbons that add both protein and texture, reminiscent of stracciatella soup.

This technique not only enhances the soup’s nutritional profile but also provides a silky, luxurious finish that transforms it from humble to heartwarming. The Parmesan also introduces a slightly nutty, savory flavor that balances the mildness of the other ingredients.

Lemon and Fresh Herbs – A Bright, Fresh Finish

Though optional, a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end can elevate this soup immensely. Lemon juice brightens the overall flavor and provides a burst of vitamin C, while parsley adds color and a hint of peppery freshness.

These small additions might seem minor, but they complete the dish and bring it to life. In traditional Italian cooking, simplicity is everything—but it’s the thoughtful layering of fresh ingredients that creates such depth of flavor.

Why Italian Penicillin Soup is a Modern-Day Essential

In today’s fast-paced world, meals that are both wholesome and quick to prepare are more important than ever. Italian Penicillin Soup is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly adaptable. You can make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth and omitting the chicken and egg. It’s naturally low in fat, especially if you use a lean chicken breast, and it can be customized with any vegetables you have on hand.

Its nostalgic qualities, healing properties, and ability to comfort in difficult moments have helped this soup maintain its popularity through generations. During cold and flu season, it’s an ideal go-to meal. When stress or exhaustion sets in, it’s a simple reminder to slow down and care for yourself or your loved ones.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This soup is best served hot, ideally with a slice of crusty bread or a small side salad. A light drizzle of olive oil or a bit of extra grated Parmesan can add even more richness and flavor. It’s also a great candidate for meal prep; you can double the batch and store it in the fridge for up to four days.

If freezing, it’s best to leave out the pasta and add it when reheating to avoid soggy noodles. You can freeze the broth, chicken, and veggies, then simply boil fresh pastina when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Italian Penicillin Soup is more than just a meal—it’s an experience, a tradition, and a form of edible affection. Rooted in generations of family kitchens, it brings together everything we crave in times of need: warmth, nourishment, and a little bit of love in a bowl.

Its simplicity is its strength, offering flexibility for home cooks of all levels. Whether you’re nursing a cold, feeling nostalgic, or just in the mood for something wholesome, this comforting Italian classic will never disappoint. In a world full of complicated recipes and overwhelming choices, Italian Penicillin Soup reminds us that the best dishes are often the simplest—and that food, at its core, is about care and connection.