Spring Soup With Peas And Herbs
Highlighted under: Fresh & Fit
I absolutely adore this Spring Soup with Peas and Herbs! It embodies the essence of a bright and fresh spring day, bringing together vibrant green peas, fragrant herbs, and a touch of cream. Each spoonful feels like a celebration of the season, bursting with flavor and healthy goodness. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or as a delicious starter for dinner, this soup never fails to delight my palate and lift my spirits. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this delightful experience with your loved ones!
When I first experimented with this Spring Soup, I was searching for a dish that truly captured the essence of spring. The moment I blended the sweet peas and fresh herbs, I knew I was onto something special. The vibrant green color alone made my heart sing! One of my favorite tips is to use fresh spring peas if you can find them; they lend a sweetness that frozen peas just can’t replicate.
In making this soup, I discovered that finishing it off with a drizzle of good olive oil really enhances the flavors and adds a lovely richness. I also enjoy adding a little extra lemon juice right before serving for a zesty kick that brightens up each bite. Sharing this cozy bowl of spring’s freshness with family brings such joy to my day.
You'll Love This Recipe Because
- The vibrant green color is a feast for the eyes
- Packed with fresh flavors and health benefits
- Quick and easy, perfect for busy spring days
Elevating Flavors with Fresh Herbs
The fresh herbs you choose for this Spring Soup play a crucial role in its vibrant flavor profile. Mint and parsley not only add a layer of complexity to the taste but also enhance the fresh, spring-like quality of the dish. If you're looking for alternatives, basil can provide a sweet note, while dill lends a unique brightness. I often recommend chopping the herbs just before adding them to preserve their essential oils, which will ensure that their flavors remain bright and aromatic when infused into the soup.
To maximize the herbal freshness, avoid overcooking them. They should be stirred in towards the end of the cooking process to maintain their color and lively flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or zest right before serving to amplify the herbs’ brightness further. This little touch can elevate the overall taste and create a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the soup.
Perfecting the Texture
Achieving the ideal texture in your spring soup is key to an inviting dish. When blending, whether using an immersion blender or transferring to a traditional blender, be mindful not to over-blend. You want a smooth consistency without losing all the identity of the peas. A few small chunks can contribute to a heartier texture, giving you that satisfying mouthfeel. Keep an eye on the liquid-to-solid ratio; if it seems too thick, you can always return the soup to the heat and stir in a bit more vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Additionally, the heavy cream you add at the end not only enriches the soup but also contributes to its velvety smoothness. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, a swirl of Greek yogurt can offer creaminess while packing in a protein boost. However, be careful to add it off the heat to avoid curdling.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create the perfect spring soup.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh herbs (like mint and parsley), chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Ensure everything is prepped before starting to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a delicious spring soup bursting with flavor.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Peas
Add the peas and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Add Cream and Herbs
Stir in the cream and chopped herbs. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle with olive oil before serving and enjoy!
Serve this delightful soup warm, garnished with extra herbs if desired.
Pro Tips
- For added texture, consider topping your soup with croutons or a sprinkle of toasted seeds. This soup can also be served chilled for a refreshing option on warmer days.
Make-Ahead Tips
This Spring Soup with Peas and Herbs is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the soup base a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the cream and fresh herbs right before serving to maintain their flavors and vibrant color. If you’re looking to freeze the soup, do so before incorporating the cream, as dairy can separate and change texture when frozen. It will store well for up to three months; when you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw and reheat on the stove, adding the cream and herbs at the very end.
In terms of reheating, a gentle simmer is best to bring the soup back up to temperature without overcooking the peas and herbs. Keep on low heat and stir occasionally, monitoring to make sure it doesn’t boil, which can break down the freshly added ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
For a delightful presentation, consider serving your Spring Soup in wide, shallow bowls. A drizzle of olive oil just before serving not only adds visual appeal but also a luscious taste that complements the soup's creaminess. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a balanced light lunch or dinner. For an extra touch, garnish with pea shoots or additional fresh herbs to enhance the fresh aspect of the dish.
Another idea is to serve it alongside a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, which can beautifully complement the dish's fresh flavors. If you’re planning to impress guests, a simple yet elegant cheese platter alongside the soup can elevate the dining experience, making it both casual and stylish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen peas?
Absolutely! Frozen peas work great in this recipe and are convenient.
→ What herbs can I use?
Feel free to mix and match herbs like basil, thyme, or chives along with mint and parsley.
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream to keep it vegan.
→ How long can I store the soup?
You can store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Spring Soup With Peas And Herbs
I absolutely adore this Spring Soup with Peas and Herbs! It embodies the essence of a bright and fresh spring day, bringing together vibrant green peas, fragrant herbs, and a touch of cream. Each spoonful feels like a celebration of the season, bursting with flavor and healthy goodness. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or as a delicious starter for dinner, this soup never fails to delight my palate and lift my spirits. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this delightful experience with your loved ones!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh herbs (like mint and parsley), chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the peas and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Stir in the cream and chopped herbs. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle with olive oil before serving and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For added texture, consider topping your soup with croutons or a sprinkle of toasted seeds. This soup can also be served chilled for a refreshing option on warmer days.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 5g