This fresh pea soup is a bright and tasty dish, perfect for springtime! It’s made with sweet peas, a bit of onion, and some tasty herbs, making it both healthy and colorful.
When I make this soup, I can’t help but smile at the vibrant green color. Serve it warm or chilled; it’s delicious either way. Plus, you can feel like a chef without too much effort! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a rich flavor to the soup. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with avocado oil or even butter for a different taste.
Onion: I love using yellow onions for their sweetness. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, consider using shallots instead.
Fresh or Frozen Peas: Fresh peas are sweet and vibrant, but frozen ones are just as good and convenient. You can also use split peas for a different texture, but remember to adjust the cooking time.
Fresh Mint: Mint is key for freshness. If it’s not available, try basil or a bit of parsley, though the flavor will change slightly.
Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk: For a lactose-free option, coconut milk works beautifully as a substitute. You can skip cream altogether for a lighter soup.
How Do You Make the Perfect Creamy Soup Without a Blender?
Blending is essential for a smooth texture, but if you don’t have a blender, you can mash the peas with a potato masher. It won’t be as smooth, but it’ll still be delicious! If using a blender, always let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splatters.
- Cook the soup until peas are tender.
- Carefully blend, adding small batches to avoid overflow.
- If using an immersion blender, simply blend directly in the pot for a creamy finish.
How to Make Fresh Pea Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh or frozen green peas
- 3 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe can be made in about 25-30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes chopping and sautéing, and then let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes. After blending and seasoning, it’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so it doesn’t burn!
2. Add Garlic and Peas:
Once the onion is soft, add the minced garlic into the pot. Cook for another minute until you can smell that delicious garlic aroma. Then, stir in the fresh or frozen peas and cook them for 2-3 minutes.
3. Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat so that it simmers gently, then let it cook for about 10 minutes until the peas are tender.
4. Blend Smooth:
After the soup has simmered and the peas are tender, take the pot off the heat. Add in the fresh mint leaves. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer batches of soup to a blender to blend until it’s nice and creamy.
5. Add Creaminess:
Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk for an extra touch of creaminess, if you like. This is optional, but it makes the soup extra rich!
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with whole peas, a drizzle of olive oil, and a few extra mint leaves on top for a lovely presentation. Serve immediately alongside some crusty bread for a perfect meal!
Enjoy your delicious fresh pea soup!
Can I Use Frozen Peas Instead of Fresh Ones?
Absolutely! Frozen peas are an excellent substitute and are often just as sweet and flavorful. They also save you prep time, as you can skip the shelling. Just toss them straight into the pot!
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you reheat, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Yes! Simply skip the heavy cream and use coconut milk for creaminess. Make sure to use a vegetable broth that is labeled vegan to keep the entire dish plant-based!
What Can I Serve with Fresh Pea Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad. You can also serve it with a dollop of yogurt or crème fraîche for an additional creamy touch!
