This fresh pea soup is bright, green, and packed with flavor! It’s made from sweet peas, a little onion, and herbs, making it a light and tasty meal. Perfect for a warm day!
I love how quickly this soup comes together, just a quick blend and heat! Serve it with a crusty bread, and you have a satisfying dish that’s sure to impress your friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a rich flavor to the soup. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil or even coconut oil can work well. I prefer extra virgin for the taste, but choose what you have on hand.
Onion: The base for the soup! Yellow onions are great for sweetness, but you can use shallots or even leeks for milder flavor. I like to sauté them until they’re just translucent.
Fresh or Frozen Peas: Fresh peas are definitely the best for a vibrant taste, but frozen peas are a fantastic substitute. They’re picked at peak freshness and work beautifully, especially when you’re in a pinch.
Vegetable Broth/Water: Broth adds depth to the soup. If you want a lighter option, use water. Homemade broth is great too! Just remember to season according to taste.
Fresh Mint: This adds a unique twist. If you don’t have mint, basil or even cilantro can give a fresh flavor. I love the brightness mint brings, especially in spring.
How Do I Make Sure My Pea Soup is Smooth and Creamy?
The texture of your soup is key! To achieve that smooth consistency, blending is essential. Here’s a quick guide:
- After cooking, let the pot cool for a couple of minutes to avoid hot splatters.
- If using an immersion blender, blend directly in the pot until smooth. Start slowly to prevent splashing!
- If using a traditional blender, fill it no more than halfway to prevent overflow. Blend in batches if needed.
- For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt after blending!
Remember, blending well is crucial to make every spoonful delightful!
How to Make Fresh Pea Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh or frozen green peas
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
Optional Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (for added freshness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- A small handful of fresh pea shoots or whole peas, for garnish
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious fresh pea soup will take about 30 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll have a warm, comforting soup ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Base:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion. Cook the onion for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. This is where the soup gets its wonderful base flavor!
2. Adding Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for another minute, just until you can smell its delicious aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic—just a quick sauté will do!
3. Cooking the Peas:
Now, it’s time to add the fresh or frozen peas to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes. The peas should be tender by the end of this time!
4. Adding Fresh Mint (Optional):
If you’re using mint, toss in the fresh mint leaves now, and let them cook for an additional minute to release their lovely flavor. This step really brightens up the soup!
5. Blending the Soup:
Remove the pot from the heat, and it’s time to blend! Use an immersion blender to puree the soup right in the pot until it’s smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until creamy. Always keep safety in mind with hot liquids!
6. Seasoning:
After smoothing it out, taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Adjustments can make all the difference!
7. Serving the Soup:
Serve the soup hot in bowls. Drizzle with some extra olive oil and garnish with fresh pea shoots or whole peas. A sprinkle of black pepper on top can add a nice finish!
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Lastly, don’t forget to enjoy your fresh pea soup with a side of crusty bread, if you like. It’s the perfect accompaniment to this delightful dish!
Can I Use Frozen Peas Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen peas are a great substitute and are picked at peak freshness, making them equally delicious. Just add them directly to the pot without thawing!
Can I Make This Soup in Advance?
Yes, you can! This fresh pea soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving. If it thickens a bit, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months—just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What Can I Use as a Garnish?
For garnishing, fresh pea shoots, whole peas, or even a sprig of mint work wonderfully. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of black pepper on top can also enhance the flavor and presentation!