Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. I often prep it in the morning before the girls wake up, then finish it right before dinner. The flavors hold up and often taste better the next day.

Is this soup good for picky eaters?

Yes. The broth is mild and the textures are soft. You can keep mushrooms on the side or blend part of the soup if your kids prefer smoother textures.

Can I add meat or beans?

Yes. Add cooked shredded chicken, white beans, or cooked Italian sausage. If you add sausage, brown it first for flavor, then proceed with the recipe.

How should I thicken it if I want a creamier texture?

Blend half the soup in a blender and stir it back in. You can also add a small splash of cream at the end, but I prefer the blended-vegetable trick for a lighter option.

What if I suffer from low appetite when sick?

Serve small amounts in a small bowl or mug with extra lemon. Warm, sipped slowly, it feels nourishing without overwhelming.

Easy Italian Penicillin Soup in 45 min

Name: Italian Penicillin Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Lemon juice (optional, for garnish)

Description

A warm, comforting soup combining garlic, fresh vegetables, and earthy mushrooms, perfect for family meals or when feeling under the weather.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups vegetable broth
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon juice (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
Add the mushrooms, spinach, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Reduce heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm, with a splash of lemon juice if desired.

Notes

Use fresh basil for added flavor. This soup makes great leftovers and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian