If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and incredibly comforting, this Spring Pea and Mint Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It perfectly captures the essence of early spring with sweet peas and fragrant mint, creating a silky, refreshing soup that delights every time. Whether you’re warming up on a cool afternoon or serving something light for a dinner party, this soup balances simplicity and elegance in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this soup is a breeze, but each one plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and that gorgeous green color. Fresh peas bring natural sweetness and vibrancy, the onion adds a mellow depth, and mint brightens everything up with a cool, aromatic punch. Let’s dive into the essentials.
- 2 cups fresh peas (or frozen): Fresh peas add natural sweetness and bright green color; frozen peas are a convenient alternative that works just as well.
- 1 cup vegetable broth (low-sodium): Provides a gentle base that lets the peas shine while keeping the flavor balanced and light.
- 1 medium onion (chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth once sautéed.
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves: The star herb that infuses the soup with a refreshing, garden-fresh flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk: For a rich, creamy finish that smooths and softens the soup’s texture, use dairy or a creamy plant-based alternative.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps sauté the onion beautifully while adding a lovely richness to the base.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Spring Pea and Mint Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peas and Onion
Start by washing your fresh peas thoroughly; if you’re using shelled peas, shell them carefully to keep the beautiful green pods separate. In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it’s translucent and tender—about 5 minutes—this step really unlocks the mellow sweetness that balances the peas.
Step 2: Simmer the Peas
Add your fresh peas and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes until the peas are tender. This simmer develops a delicate, fresh flavor that lays the perfect foundation for the soup.
Step 3: Blend with Mint
Once the peas are soft, scoop the mixture into a blender or use an immersion blender right in the pot. Add the fresh mint leaves before blending; this helps infuse the soup with that unmistakable refreshing lift. Blend until the texture is perfectly smooth and silky.
Step 4: Finish and Season
Pour the blended soup back into the pot over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk slowly until fully combined, creating a luxuriously creamy texture. Finally, add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning so that every spoonful sings with balanced flavor.
How to Serve Spring Pea and Mint Soup Recipe
Garnishes
The perfect garnish is a handful of fresh mint leaves or a small drizzle of cream for added elegance. A few crispy croutons or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can also add a delightful crunchy or spicy contrast to the silky soup.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crunchy rustic bread or a light salad to keep the meal feeling fresh and wholesome. A wedge of lemon on the side can be fun too, letting guests add a spritz to brighten up each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special gathering, serve the Spring Pea and Mint Soup Recipe in small cups or shot glasses as a refreshing starter. Swirling a little pesto or drizzling olive oil on top creates an artistic finish that looks as great as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover Spring Pea and Mint Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it just as delicious when reheated gently.
Freezing
Freezing is a fantastic option if you want to enjoy this soup later. Place it in a freezer-safe container with some space for expansion and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your soup slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. If the soup thickens too much, simply whisk in a splash of water or broth to refresh its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen peas are a convenient and budget-friendly alternative that still delivers great flavor and texture, making this Spring Pea and Mint Soup Recipe easy all year round.
Is there a vegan version of this soup?
Yes, swapping heavy cream for coconut milk will keep the soup rich and creamy without dairy, making this recipe entirely vegan-friendly while preserving its fresh taste.
How do I keep the soup bright green?
The key is to avoid overcooking the peas and to blend them while still fresh. Adding the mint during blending also maintains that vibrant color and refreshing aroma.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Mint is the star here, but you can experiment with a small handful of fresh basil or a squeeze of lemon juice to add extra brightness without overpowering the delicate flavors.
What is the best way to serve this soup on a hot day?
Serve the Spring Pea and Mint Soup Recipe chilled for a cool, refreshing treat. Garnish with fresh mint and a drizzle of olive oil for a perfect summer appetizer.
Final Thoughts
This Spring Pea and Mint Soup Recipe is a true celebration of fresh, simple ingredients that come together effortlessly to create something special. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. Trust me, once you taste it, this soup will become a beloved part of your seasonal repertoire!
Print
Spring Pea and Mint Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: European
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant Spring Pea and Mint Soup is a fresh and creamy dish perfect for a light and healthy meal. Combining the sweetness of peas with the refreshing flavor of fresh mint, this soup is blended to a smooth texture and enriched with cream or coconut milk for a luscious finish. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an ideal starter or comforting lunch during springtime.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh peas (or frozen)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves
Liquids
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the peas: Wash fresh peas thoroughly and shell them if you are using fresh peas instead of frozen. This ensures the soup will have a fresh, sweet flavor.
- Sauté the onion: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes, which softens the onion and builds the soup’s base flavor.
- Cook peas with broth: Add the peas and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes until the peas are tender.
- Blend the soup: Transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth. Add fresh mint leaves during blending to incorporate their vibrant flavor evenly throughout the soup.
- Enrich the soup: Return the blended soup to the pot and warm it over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk until fully combined, creating a rich, creamy texture.
- Season and serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve the soup warm, garnished with extra mint leaves if desired for an elegant presentation.
Notes
- For a vegan or dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
- You can use frozen peas if fresh peas are not available, but fresh peas offer a sweeter flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the peas to maintain their bright color and fresh taste.
- This soup can be served hot or chilled for a refreshing cold soup option.
