Spring Pea And Spinach Soup
Highlighted under: Fresh Kitchen Favorites
I absolutely love making this Spring Pea and Spinach Soup during the vibrant season of spring. The fresh taste of green peas combined with the earthy flavor of spinach creates a delightful balance that’s both satisfying and rejuvenating. With its bright color and velvety texture, this soup is perfect as a light starter or a main dish for lunch. Plus, it’s incredibly easy and quick to whip up, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen when I’m looking for something healthy yet delicious.
When I first tried this Spring Pea and Spinach Soup, I was amazed by how vibrant and fresh it tasted. I discovered that sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the peas really deepens the flavor, making each spoonful delightful. The bright green color is not only appealing but also indicates the dish is packed with nutrients.
I remember serving this soup at a spring gathering, and it was a hit! Everyone appreciated its lightness and the simplicity of the ingredients, which allowed the natural flavors to shine through beautifully. It’s a perfect recipe to showcase the best of what the season has to offer!
Why You'll Love This Soup
- Refreshing and light, perfect for warm days
- Rich in vitamins and nutrients from fresh greens
- Quick to make, ideal for busy weeknights
The Role of Fresh Ingredients
The vibrant flavor of your Spring Pea and Spinach Soup greatly relies on the quality of fresh ingredients. Fresh green peas have a naturally sweet taste and a brilliant green color that enhances the visual appeal of the soup. Using frozen peas is an option, but the taste and texture won’t be as bright or lively. Additionally, incorporating fresh spinach not only gives a wonderful earthy flavor but also retains more nutrients compared to its cooked or dried counterparts, making your soup both delicious and healthful.
Onions and garlic are foundational ingredients that build the flavor base of the soup. Sautéing the onions until they're translucent and fragrant initiates the flavor profile of the soup. Be sure to avoid browning them too much, as this could lend a bitter taste. Garlic should be added just before combining it with the rest of the ingredients, ensuring that its flavor remains vibrant but not overpowering.
Blending Techniques for Texture Perfection
Blending is a crucial step in achieving the desired texture of your soup. While I prefer a completely smooth consistency, you might enjoy a bit of chunkiness. If using an immersion blender, pulse it until you reach your desired texture. Alternatively, using a countertop blender can yield a very silky finish, but remember to let the soup cool slightly before transferring it in batches to avoid splattering.
Ensure you're blending the soup adequately to break down the fibers of the peas and spinach. This not only contributes to a smooth mouthfeel but also enhances the soup’s color by integrating the peas and spinach into a single cohesive hue that looks irresistible. If you find the soup too thick after blending, stir in an additional splash of vegetable broth until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips
Serving this soup hot is essential to fully enjoy its flavors, but there are creative ways to present it. Consider topping each bowl with a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of crème fraîche for added richness. Croutons made from toasted bread can provide a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soup's smoothness. Fresh herbs like basil or chives not only enhance the taste but also serve as a beautiful garnish.
If you're preparing this soup in advance, it stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid curdling and preserve the fresh taste. This soup can also be frozen for up to a month; just ensure it’s cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe bags. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors again.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious soup:
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh green peas
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
With these ingredients ready, you are set to make a wholesome soup!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to prepare your soup:
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Peas and Spinach
Add the fresh green peas and salt and pepper to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and add the fresh spinach. Cook for 5 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunky texture, blend partially or use a regular blender in batches.
Serve and Garnish
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Your delicious Spring Pea and Spinach Soup is now ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For added creaminess, you can mix in a splash of coconut milk or cream just before serving. Additionally, don't hesitate to add other seasonal vegetables like asparagus or zucchini for more variety.
Adjusting Seasoning
When it comes to seasoning your Spring Pea and Spinach Soup, it's important to taste as you go, especially after blending. The natural sweetness from the peas means you may not need as much salt as you think. Consider starting with a pinch and gradually adjusting while the soup is still warm. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also elevate the flavors, adding brightness which can help balance the earthiness of the spinach.
Don't hesitate to experiment with spices. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can introduce an intriguing warmth that complements the peas. If you're looking for a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor without overwhelming it. Just keep these adjustments subtle to maintain the soup’s refreshing character.
Layering Flavors
To deepen the flavor profile of your soup, consider incorporating additional elements like leeks, shallots, or even diced carrots during the sautéing step. These ingredients will not only add depth but will also complement the natural sweetness of the peas. If you enjoy a hint of smoky flavor, a small amount of smoked paprika can provide a lovely contrast to the fresh greens.
Herbs play a vital role in enhancing the soup's flavor. While fresh mint is suggested for garnish, adding a handful of fresh dill or tarragon during cooking can impart a unique flavor twist. For a more robust profile, a bay leaf simmered with the broth can elevate the overall taste but be sure to remove it before blending.
Creating Variations
This Spring Pea and Spinach Soup is highly adaptable. For a heartier option, consider adding cooked potatoes or a scoop of lentils before blending. These additions will increase the soup's fiber content and make it exceptionally filling. If you're looking to incorporate protein, a handful of edible peas can be tossed in with the spinach, or you can swirl in some cooked quinoa or beans just before serving.
For a unique twist, you could try a coconut milk base instead of vegetable broth for a creamy version that brings a delightful richness to the soup. Just warm the coconut milk separately and add it in after blending to give the soup a luxurious texture while still retaining its fresh, vibrant flavors.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh ones?
Yes, frozen peas work well in this recipe. Just add them directly to the pot without thawing.
→ How long can I store the soup?
You can store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
→ Is this soup suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This recipe is entirely plant-based and perfect for vegans.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day ahead. Just follow the steps and reheat before serving.
Spring Pea And Spinach Soup
I absolutely love making this Spring Pea and Spinach Soup during the vibrant season of spring. The fresh taste of green peas combined with the earthy flavor of spinach creates a delightful balance that’s both satisfying and rejuvenating. With its bright color and velvety texture, this soup is perfect as a light starter or a main dish for lunch. Plus, it’s incredibly easy and quick to whip up, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen when I’m looking for something healthy yet delicious.
Created by: Brielle Thompson
Recipe Type: Fresh Kitchen Favorites
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh green peas
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the fresh green peas and salt and pepper to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and add the fresh spinach. Cook for 5 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunky texture, blend partially or use a regular blender in batches.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Extra Tips
- For added creaminess, you can mix in a splash of coconut milk or cream just before serving. Additionally, don't hesitate to add other seasonal vegetables like asparagus or zucchini for more variety.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 240mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 7g