This fresh pea soup is bright and tasty, making it a perfect choice for a light meal. With sweet peas, mint, and a splash of lemon, it’s refreshing and oh-so-easy to make!
You can whip it up in no time, and the color is so vibrant! I love enjoying it warm or chilled on a sunny day. It’s like a happy little bowl of Spring! 🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Peas: Fresh peas pack the brightest flavor, but if they’re out of season, frozen peas work just as well. They’re often picked and frozen at peak freshness, so don’t hesitate to use them.
Onion: A medium onion provides a gentle sweetness. However, you can swap it for shallots for a milder taste, or even use leeks for a more earthy depth.
Broth: Vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian-friendly, while chicken broth can add extra richness. If you’re short on broth, water can suffice in a pinch, but the flavor might be less intense.
Mint: Mint adds a refreshing touch, perfect for brightening the soup. If you don’t have mint, try basil or even a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty alternative.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Onions and Garlic?
Cooking the onions and garlic properly is crucial for a tasty soup. Start by heating your olive oil over medium heat, which allows the flavors to bloom. Here’s what to do:
- Sauté the onions until translucent, which takes about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a sweet base for the soup.
- Add minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute more, being careful to stir and monitor. Garlic burns quickly, and burnt garlic can leave a bitter taste.
Give your onions and garlic the time they need; this will create a deep, rich flavor in your soup!
How to Make Fresh Pea Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 4 cups fresh peas (or frozen peas, thawed)
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh pea shoots or additional cooked peas, for garnish
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh pea soup will take about 15 minutes of prep time and another 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can whip up this vibrant dish in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and soft. This should take around 5-7 minutes, and it creates a sweet and flavorful base for your soup.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté it for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning. You want it to become fragrant—this will add a wonderful depth to your soup!
3. Combine with Peas:
Now it’s time to add the fresh (or thawed frozen) peas to the saucepan. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes so the peas can warm up and mix with the onion and garlic flavors.
4. Pour in the Broth:
Pour the vegetable or chicken broth into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the peas are tender. This is where all the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Blend the Soup:
Once the peas are tender, remove the pot from the heat. If you’re using mint leaves, add them now. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup right in the pot until it’s smooth and creamy. If you’re using a standard blender, do this in batches—be careful with hot liquids!
6. Season and Heat:
Return the pureed soup to the pot if needed. Season it generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like your soup warm, gently heat it over low heat for a few minutes.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your fresh pea soup hot, drizzled with a bit of extra olive oil. Garnish it with fresh pea shoots or some additional cooked peas for a lovely touch. Crack open some crusty bread on the side for dipping—delicious!
Enjoy your vibrant, fresh pea soup!
Can I Use Frozen Peas Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen peas are a great substitute and are often frozen at their peak freshness. Just be sure to thaw them before adding to the soup for the best texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time! Just prepare it completely, let it cool, then store it in the fridge. Reheat on low heat when you’re ready to serve, and adjust the seasoning if needed.
What Can I Use Instead of Mint?
If you don’t have fresh mint, you can substitute with basil for a different flavor profile or add a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Both options work beautifully with peas!
