Creamy Green Pea Soup with Mint and Lemon

Green pea soup with mint and lemon is a fresh, vibrant dish that perfectly balances the natural sweetness of peas with the refreshing zing of mint and lemon. This creamy soup is light yet satisfying, making it an excellent option for any time of year, whether you want something comforting in the cooler months or a refreshing dish in warmer weather.

The combination of fresh mint and lemon adds brightness to the soup, enhancing its flavors while keeping it light and zesty. It’s easy to prepare, quick to cook, and can be served as an elegant appetizer or a light meal.

Ingredients

For this delicious green pea soup with mint and lemon, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g frozen or fresh green peas
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh mint leaves and lemon slices (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Green Pea Soup with Mint and Lemon

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let the garlic burn.

Step 2: Cook the Peas

Once the onion and garlic are fragrant, add the green peas to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the peas are tender but still vibrant green.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

Once the peas are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and add the fresh mint leaves, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring the mixture to a countertop blender), blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If the soup is too thick, you can add more broth to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh mint leaves and a slice of lemon. For an extra touch, drizzle a little olive oil over the top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This green pea soup with mint and lemon is perfect as a light lunch, an appetizer, or even a refreshing dinner when paired with a salad or crusty bread. The bright flavors make it a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

It’s also a wonderful dish to serve at spring or summer gatherings, where its fresh, light flavors and vibrant green color can truly shine. You can serve it warm or chilled, depending on the season and your preference.

Customization Ideas

This soup is highly versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes:

• Vegan Version: This recipe is naturally vegan, but for added creaminess, you can blend in coconut milk, almond milk, or a dairy-free yogurt. This will enhance the creaminess while maintaining the plant-based integrity of the dish.

• Creamy Add-Ins: For a richer version, blend in a dollop of sour cream, crème fraîche, or heavy cream after pureeing the soup. This adds extra creaminess and a velvety texture, making the soup even more indulgent.

• More Veggies: You can enhance the flavor and nutrition by adding other vegetables like zucchini, leeks, or even spinach to the soup. These additional greens will boost the nutritional content and further enhance the vibrant color of the dish.

• Pesto Swirl: For an extra flavor boost, try swirling in a spoonful of basil or mint pesto before serving. This adds an herby, nutty touch that complements the freshness of the soup perfectly.

Tips and Variations

• Chill the Soup: For a refreshing summer version, chill the soup in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving. Cold pea and mint soup is a perfect choice for warm-weather meals.

• Add Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a splash of coconut milk, heavy cream, or plant-based cream before blending the soup. This will give it a richer, silkier consistency.

• Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a subtle heat that balances the sweetness of the peas.

• Herb Variations: While mint adds a refreshing note to the soup, you can experiment with other herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill for a different flavor profile.

• Garnish Ideas: Besides mint and lemon, consider adding a swirl of yogurt, a sprinkle of toasted seeds, or even crumbled feta cheese for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy green pea soup with mint and lemon is a delightful, refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of peas with the brightness of mint and the tang of lemon. It’s a simple, light soup that’s perfect for any occasion, offering a burst of fresh flavors that can be enjoyed year-round.

Whether served warm or chilled, as a light starter or a main dish, this soup is sure to impress with its vibrant color and delicious taste. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a beautiful, healthy, and flavorful dish that everyone will love.