Italian Penicillin Soup

Ingredients

1.5 cups Pastina pasta (small pasta shapes)

6 cups Broth

6 Cherry tomatoes

2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese

Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large pot, bring the broth of choice to boil at high heat.

Wash the cherry tomatoes and make an X-shaped incision at the bottom. Heat some water in the kettle. Transfer hot water to a bowl and soak cherry tomatoes for 2 to 3 minutes.

Using a knife, remove the skin from the cherry tomatoes.

Add the chopped cherry tomatoes to the broth.

When the broth is boiling, add the pastina. Cook at medium heat and follow the cooking times given in the package.

When the pasta is ready, turn off the heat and add Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of oil and mix well with a wooden spoon.

Also add a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and some salt if any is needed.

Serve this soul warming soup piping hot in a soup bowl.

Notes

To make an even tastier pasta in broth, add fresh herbs like rosemary, basil or bay leaf.

Broth Selection: Choose a broth that complements the flavors you prefer, such as chicken, vegetable, or beef broth. This forms the base of the soup and influences its overall taste.

Preparing Cherry Tomatoes: The X-shaped incision and hot water soak help in easily removing the skin from the cherry tomatoes. This step enhances the texture of the soup by eliminating tough skin.

Adding Cherry Tomatoes: Incorporating chopped cherry tomatoes into the boiling broth adds a burst of fresh, tangy flavor and vibrant color to the soup.

Cooking the Pastina: Follow the cooking instructions on the package for the pastina pasta. Cooking times can vary based on the brand and size of the pasta shapes used. Cook until al dente to maintain texture.

Finishing Touches: After the pastina is cooked, turn off the heat before adding Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of oil. Mixing gently with a wooden spoon ensures the cheese melts evenly and enhances the soup’s richness.

Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. This step ensures the flavors are balanced and harmonious.

Serving: Serve the soup hot in individual soup bowls to enjoy its comforting warmth. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Variations: You can personalize this soup by adding chopped vegetables like spinach or carrots during the cooking process for added nutrition and flavor.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain consistency.

Enjoyment: This soup is perfect for cold days or when you need a comforting meal. Its simple yet flavorful ingredients make it a favorite for both adults and children alike.

Nutrition Information:

YIELD: 2 SERVING SIZE: 1

Amount Per Serving:

CALORIES: 541TOTAL FAT: 12gSATURATED FAT: 3gTRANS FAT: 0gUNSATURATED FAT: 7gCHOLESTEROL: 26mgSODIUM: 1426mgCARBOHYDRATES: 77gFIBER: 4gSUGAR: 14gPROTEIN: 29g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta if I don’t have pastina?

Yes, you can substitute pastina with other small pasta shapes like orzo, small shells, or ditalini.

Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

Is there a recommended type of broth to use for this soup?

You can use chicken, vegetable, or even beef broth based on your preferences.

Chicken and vegetable broth tend to be popular choices for this soup.

Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes for this recipe?

While cherry tomatoes add a unique flavor and texture, you can use regular tomatoes if that’s what you have available.

Simply peel and chop them before adding to the soup.

Is Parmesan cheese the only cheese I can use, or can I experiment with others?

Parmesan cheese is a traditional choice, but you can certainly experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for different flavor profiles.

Can I prepare a larger batch of this soup and store leftovers?

Absolutely! You can double or triple the recipe to make a larger batch.

Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated when you’re ready to enjoy this comforting soup again.

Can I use homemade broth for this recipe, or should I use store-bought?

You can certainly use homemade broth if you have it available.

It can add a rich and flavorful dimension to the soup.

How do I know when the pastina pasta is cooked perfectly?

The best way to determine if the pastina is cooked to your liking is to taste it.

Follow the cooking times on the package as a guideline, and when it reaches your preferred level of tenderness, it’s ready.

Can I add vegetables or herbs to this soup to enhance the flavor?

Absolutely! You can customize the soup by adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach, and herbs like basil or parsley to enhance the flavor.

Is it necessary to peel the cherry tomatoes, or can I leave the skin on?

Peeling the cherry tomatoes can create a smoother texture in the soup, but you can leave the skin on if you prefer.

It’s a matter of personal preference.

How can I store any leftover soup, and how long will it keep?

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.