Spring Soup With Peas And Herbs

Name: Spring Soup With Peas And Herbs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh peas (or frozen if unavailable); 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Wholesome Treats

I love making Spring Soup With Peas And Herbs as a way to celebrate the vibrant flavors of the season. The combination of fresh peas, fragrant herbs, and a touch of cream brings a lovely brightness to the dish that is simply irresistible. I find that this soup not only nourishes the soul but also serves as a refreshing start to any meal. It's truly a delightful way to enjoy the bounty of springtime produce, and it comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:37:15.370Z

One of my favorite aspects of this soup is its simplicity. The first time I made it, I was amazed at how the fresh ingredients could create such depth of flavor in just a short cooking time. I recommend using garden-fresh peas if possible, as they provide a sweetness that frozen peas simply can't match.

When blending the soup, I like to leave a few whole peas and herbs in for texture and presentation. This not only makes the soup more visually appealing but also offers little bursts of flavor with every spoonful. A sprinkle of lemon zest at the end brightens it up even more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and fresh flavors that capture spring's essence
Creamy texture balanced with vibrant herbs
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

Ingredient Insights

The peas are the star of this soup, providing a sweet and vibrant flavor that embodies spring. Fresh peas offer the best taste and nutrition but can be substituted with frozen peas for convenience. When using frozen peas, there's no need to thaw them before adding to the pot; simply incorporate them directly, and they should cook perfectly in the broth. Additionally, try using snap peas or snow peas for a different texture and added crunch if you want to experiment a bit.

Herbs are crucial in this recipe, as they elevate the soup's freshness. Mint and basil not only add bright flavors but also have digestive benefits, making this dish even more nourishing. If fresh herbs aren’t available, consider using dried herbs instead: 1 tablespoon of dried mint or basil can substitute for about 3 tablespoons of fresh. However, add them earlier in the cooking process to allow their flavors to infuse the soup more effectively.

Techniques for Success

Sautéing the onions until they’re translucent—usually around 5 minutes on medium heat—enhances their sweetness and lays a flavorful foundation for the soup. Be sure not to rush this step, as it can significantly affect the overall taste. You want them to soften and take on a glossy appearance without browning, which can introduce bitterness. If you notice them starting to brown, reduce your heat slightly to allow them to cook through without browning.

When it comes to blending, using an immersion blender is ideal for this soup since it minimizes cleanup and allows you to control the texture easily. If you prefer a more rustic soup, only blend half of it; this will give you a delightful mix of smooth and chunky goodness. For those without an immersion blender, carefully transfer portions of the soup to a traditional blender, making sure to let it cool slightly to avoid splattering.

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 cups fresh peas (or frozen if unavailable)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn.

Add Peas and Broth

Stir in the fresh or frozen peas and pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, until the peas are tender.

Blend the Soup

Remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of it.

Finish with Cream and Herbs

Return the pot to low heat and stir in the heavy cream, chopped mint, basil, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Warm through before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up. Also, garnishing with extra fresh herbs right before serving will enhance the freshness of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Spring Soup is best served warm, making it a great starter or light main course paired with a crusty bread. You might also consider a drizzle of extra olive oil or a dollop of crème fraîche on top for added richness and presentation. If you’re looking to enhance the dish further, toasted pine nuts or croutons added just before serving provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy soup.

If you're planning a special meal, complement this soup with a light salad, like a mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette, to keep the flavors vibrant and spring-focused. A fruity white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, would pair beautifully, enhancing the fresh herbs and bright peas.

Storage and Reheating

This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an excellent make-ahead meal option. If you intend to freeze it, consider omitting the cream before freezing. Cream can sometimes separate or curdle when thawed, so stir it in after reheating. When ready to eat, simply thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until hot, adding in the cream right before serving.

To enhance the flavor upon reheating, consider adding a splash of fresh lemon juice or a handful of freshly chopped herbs to refresh the soup. This will not only revitalize the flavors but also remind you of that fresh taste you enjoyed when it was first made. Watch for the soup to come to a gentle simmer; avoid boiling, which can affect the creaminess of the soup.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen peas for this soup?

Yes, frozen peas will work well if fresh peas are not available. Just make sure to thaw and rinse them before adding.

→ How long can I store the soup?

The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream and use vegetable broth for a vegan version.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a light sandwich for a complete meal.