Spring Pea And Spinach Soup
Highlighted under: Wellness Meals Co.
I absolutely love making this Spring Pea and Spinach Soup during the warmer months when fresh peas are at their peak. The vibrant green color and the bright flavors of the peas and spinach never fail to lift my spirits. It's a comforting dish that not only warms you up but also nourishes your body with its wholesome ingredients. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for those busy weeknight dinners. I can’t wait for you to try this simple yet delightful recipe!
When I first made this soup, I was amazed at how easy it was to create something so flavorful. I started with fresh peas, which have a sweetness that intensifies during cooking. By adding a touch of garlic and onion to the mix, this combination enhances the overall flavor and makes each spoonful a treat!
This soup isn’t just a breeze to make; it’s also packed with nutrients. Spinach adds an extra layer of health benefits, and I love topping my bowl with a drizzle of olive oil for a touch of richness. Trust me, you'll want to savor every last drop!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Bright, fresh flavors perfect for spring
- Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
- A healthy, nutrient-rich soup that’s both delicious and satisfying
Key Flavor Components
The foundation of the Spring Pea and Spinach Soup lies in its aromatics. The combination of onion and garlic creates a fragrant base that enhances the sweetness of the peas. When sautéed in olive oil, the onion should become soft and translucent, which takes about 5 minutes on medium heat. This step is crucial; if you rush it by using high heat, the onions may burn rather than caramelize, resulting in a bitter taste that can overshadow the soup's bright flavors.
The spinach adds not only color but also a vibrant, earthy note to the dish. When incorporating the spinach, wait until after removing the pot from the heat to preserve its vibrant green hue and delicate texture. Adding it this way helps to retain more nutrients and prevents overcooking, which can diminish the nutritional value and flavor profile.
Texture and Consistency
For a creamy texture, blending the soup is essential. An immersion blender is highly recommended for its ease of use—simply submerge it in the pot and blend until the mixture is smooth. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring it in batches, as blending hot liquids can cause splattering and result in burns. Aim for a silky texture without chunks, as this will create a more enjoyable eating experience.
If you prefer a chunkier soup, consider reserving a portion of the peas before blending and adding them back in after for added texture. This also creates visual interest, showcasing the vibrant green color and inviting your guests to dig in. Adjust the consistency to your preference by adding more broth if the soup is too thick for your liking.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh peas (or frozen)
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
Gather these simple ingredients to create a wholesome and vibrant soup!
Instructions
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Peas
Add the fresh or frozen peas to the pot, stirring well. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, until the peas are tender.
Blend the Soup
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the spinach. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender.
Season and Finish
Return the blended soup to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Heat through briefly and serve warm.
Your vibrant soup is now ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, top your soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Make-Ahead and Storage
This soup is an excellent candidate for make-ahead meals. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld together beautifully, making it taste even better on the second day. Just be sure to let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
If you want to enjoy this soup later, consider freezing it. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove. You may need to add a little extra broth or water to return the desired consistency as freezing can change the texture slightly.
Serving Suggestions
When serving Spring Pea and Spinach Soup, consider garnishing it with a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of crème fraîche for added richness. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can elevate the freshness of the dish significantly.
Pair the soup with crusty bread or a light salad to create a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or roasted vegetables. This flexibility allows the soup to shine as a versatile dish, suitable for both casual weeknight dinners and more formal gatherings.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen peas for this recipe?
Yes, frozen peas work beautifully in this soup and save you time!
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Just ensure the vegetable broth and any added toppings are vegan-friendly.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Spring Pea And Spinach Soup
I absolutely love making this Spring Pea and Spinach Soup during the warmer months when fresh peas are at their peak. The vibrant green color and the bright flavors of the peas and spinach never fail to lift my spirits. It's a comforting dish that not only warms you up but also nourishes your body with its wholesome ingredients. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for those busy weeknight dinners. I can’t wait for you to try this simple yet delightful recipe!
Created by: Veronica Miles
Recipe Type: Wellness Meals Co.
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Soup Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh peas (or frozen)
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the fresh or frozen peas to the pot, stirring well. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, until the peas are tender.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the spinach. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender.
Return the blended soup to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Heat through briefly and serve warm.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, top your soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 370mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 5g