Pea and Mint Soup
Savor the essence of spring with our delightful Pea and Mint Soup recipe. Created for both taste and visual appeal, this vibrant green soup combines nutrient-packed peas, aromatic mint leaves, and a touch of creaminess for a truly delightful experience. Sautéed onions and garlic provide a flavorful base, while the gentle blend of ingredients results in a smooth and creamy texture. Enjoy the health benefits of peas, rich in vitamins and dietary fiber, and the potential digestive perks of fresh mint. Serve warm as a light meal or appetizer, and don't hesitate to garnish with crème fraiche or yogurt for an added tangy twist. Explore this modern take on a classic, embracing the versatility of this soup that's perfect year-round.
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen peas
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon juice to taste
- Crème fraiche or yogurt for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large pot, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Peas and Mint: Add the frozen peas to the pot and sauté for a couple of minutes until they start to thaw. Stir in the fresh mint leaves. Reserve a few mint leaves for garnishing later.
- Pour in Broth: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until the peas are tender.
- Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender or by carefully transferring the soup to a regular blender in batches, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, make sure to allow the soup to cool slightly before blending and blend in batches if necessary.
- Add Cream (Optional): If using heavy cream, stir it into the soup to add richness. You can adjust the amount of cream according to your preference.
- Season and Finish: Season the soup with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavours. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Serve: Ladle the pea and mint soup into bowls. If desired, garnish each bowl with a dollop of crème fraiche or yoghurt and a few extra mint leaves.
- Enjoy: Serve the soup warm as an appetizer or light meal. It's best enjoyed with some crusty bread or croutons on the side.
Notes
This Pea and Mint Soup is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its vibrant green colour. It's a great way to enjoy the flavours of spring and can be served throughout the year.
Tradition and Roots: Modern Twist on Classics: Pea soup is a classic dish with variations found in many cuisines around the world. This version with mint infuses a fresh and vibrant twist on tradition. Culinary Creativity: The combination of peas and mint showcases the creativity of using seasonal ingredients to create a harmonious blend of flavours.
Instructions: Simple Cooking: The preparation involves sautéing onions and garlic, then adding peas, mint, and broth. This straightforward process maintains the integrity of the ingredients and ensures a quick and wholesome meal. Texture and Flavour Balance: Blending the soup creates a smooth and creamy texture while preserving the flavours of the peas and mint.
Versatile Enjoyment: Appetizer or Light Meal: This soup can be served as an appetizer to kick off a meal or as a light and nourishing meal on its own. Garnishing Possibilities: Garnishes like crème fraiche or yoghurt add a tangy contrast to the soup's mild flavours, enhancing both taste and presentation. Year-Round Appeal: While the fresh mint and vibrant green colour evoke thoughts of spring, this soup's versatility allows you to enjoy it regardless of the season.
Health Benefits and Nutrition:
The approximate calorie content per serving of this Pea and Mint Soup can vary based on serving size and specific ingredients used. Nutrient-Packed Peas: Peas are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate. They also provide dietary fibre, which supports digestive health and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. Fresh Mint Goodness: Mint leaves not only add a refreshing flavour but also offer potential health benefits. Mint may aid digestion, soothe stomach discomfort, and provide antioxidants that contribute to overall well-being. Light and Nutritious: This soup is relatively low in calories while being high in nutrients. It's a great option for those looking for a flavourful yet light dish. Optional Creaminess: The addition of heavy cream offers a touch of richness and creaminess. While optional, it can contribute to satiety and add extra flavour. Veggie-Packed: The soup is a smart way to include more vegetables in your diet. With peas and onions as key ingredients, you're getting a boost of essential vitamins and minerals. Low in Saturated Fat: Opting for olive oil instead of butter and using a moderate amount of cream keeps the saturated fat content in check.Tradition and Roots: Modern Twist on Classics: Pea soup is a classic dish with variations found in many cuisines around the world. This version with mint infuses a fresh and vibrant twist on tradition. Culinary Creativity: The combination of peas and mint showcases the creativity of using seasonal ingredients to create a harmonious blend of flavours.
Instructions: Simple Cooking: The preparation involves sautéing onions and garlic, then adding peas, mint, and broth. This straightforward process maintains the integrity of the ingredients and ensures a quick and wholesome meal. Texture and Flavour Balance: Blending the soup creates a smooth and creamy texture while preserving the flavours of the peas and mint.
Versatile Enjoyment: Appetizer or Light Meal: This soup can be served as an appetizer to kick off a meal or as a light and nourishing meal on its own. Garnishing Possibilities: Garnishes like crème fraiche or yoghurt add a tangy contrast to the soup's mild flavours, enhancing both taste and presentation. Year-Round Appeal: While the fresh mint and vibrant green colour evoke thoughts of spring, this soup's versatility allows you to enjoy it regardless of the season.