The First Taste of Spring
My Favorite is Fresh Pea and Mint Soup and As the cold days of winter melted away, I felt a gentle excitement in the air. It was time to welcome spring, and what better way to celebrate than with a bowl of Fresh Pea and Mint Soup? This soup is a bright green treasure that reminds me of lush gardens and sunny days. I remember the first time I made it. The sweet smell of fresh peas filled my kitchen, making me smile. I gathered all my ingredients, eager to share this dish with my family.
Picking Fresh Peas
I love going to the farmer’s market in spring. The vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables are so inviting. When I spotted the fresh peas, I couldn’t resist. Their pods looked perfect, and I imagined how sweet they would taste in my soup. I picked up a basket, chatting with the farmer about how best to prepare them. He smiled and told me that adding mint would bring out their flavor even more. His advice made me even more excited to start cooking.
Cooking with Love
Back home, I washed the peas and peeled them open, revealing the tiny, bright green gems inside. I simmered them gently in a pot with onion and garlic, the lovely aroma filling my home. Then came the mint, fresh and fragrant. I added it to the pot, and the combination made my heart dance with joy. After blending it all together, I poured the soup into bowls. It looked so inviting, a vibrant green that felt like spring itself.
Sharing the Joy
When my family gathered around the table, I couldn’t wait for them to taste my Fresh Pea and Mint Soup. I served it warm, topped with a sprinkle of fresh mint. As they took their first spoonfuls, their eyes lit up. I loved hearing their delighted comments. We shared stories and laughter, and in that moment, the soup wasn’t just a dish; it was a celebration of spring and togetherness. Each bite reminded us of the beauty of fresh ingredients and the joy of cooking together.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Fresh Pea and Mint Soup
- While fresh peas have a delightful sweetness and vibrant color, frozen peas are convenient and just as nutritious. If using fresh peas, shell them just before cooking for the best flavor.
- If you prefer a thinner soup, add more vegetable broth or water during blending. For a thicker soup, blend less or add more peas.
- Experiment by adding a splash of lemon juice or zest before serving for a bright, citrusy kick. You can also try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat.
- Besides fresh mint and whole peas, consider garnishing with a dollop of vegan sour cream or a sprinkle of hemp seeds for added texture and nutrition.
- This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or even vegan grilled cheese sandwiches for a hearty meal.
- To maintain the vibrant color, store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the peas.
- For a richer texture, blend in a few tablespoons of cashew cream or a splash of plant-based milk just before serving.
Fresh Pea and Mint Soup
Dive into the refreshing flavors of summer with this Fresh Pea and Mint Soup! It’s light, vibrant, and packed with plant-based protein and fiber. Perfect for a quick lunch or a delightful appetizer, this soup is both healthy and gluten-free. Whether you’re using fresh peas from the garden or convenient frozen ones, this recipe is a breeze to whip up. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up that abundant mint in your garden. Try it today and experience the magic of peas and mint together!
4
servings10
minutes15
minutes238
kcal25
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
Olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
4 cups frozen peas (or fresh if available)
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Sautéing Aromatics – Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 7-8 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
- Combining Ingredients – Add the peas, fresh mint leaves, vegetable broth, and nutritional yeast to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
- Simmering – Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes until the peas are tender.
- Serving – Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil and garnish with whole peas and fresh mint leaves if desired.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- large saucepan
- hand blender
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 238kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Fiber: 13g
- Sugar: 8g
- Vitamin A: 2000IU
- Vitamin C: 87mg
- Calcium: 60mg
- Iron: 3mg
FAQ-Fresh Pea and Mint Soup
Can I use dried peas instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, but you’ll need to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time. Dried peas take longer to cook, usually around 30-40 minutes after adding to the broth.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in airtight containers for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! You can include vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or kale for added nutrients and flavor. Just add them at the same time as the peas.
What can I substitute for nutritional yeast?
If you’re not vegan, you can use grated Parmesan cheese. For a non-dairy option, omit it entirely, as the soup is still delicious without it.
How can I make this soup more filling?
To make it more substantial, serve it with protein-rich toppings like chickpeas, tofu, or quinoa. You can also blend in some cooked lentils for extra fiber and protein.
