Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Spring is a beautiful time of year, and what better way to celebrate it than with a vibrant bowl of Spring Soup: Pea & Potato Soup! This delightful soup is not only quick to make—ready in just 25 minutes—but it’s also a delicious blend of fresh flavors that perfectly captures the essence of the season. Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend lunch, it’s a dish the whole family will enjoy. Its creamy texture combined with a hint of sweetness from the peas makes it a hit for both adults and children alike.
What Is Spring Soup: Pea & Potato Soup in 25 Minutes?
Spring Soup: Pea & Potato Soup is a light and flavorful dish that highlights seasonal ingredients. With a base of tender potatoes and sweet green peas, it’s complemented by aromatic herbs and a splash of cream to create a rich yet refreshing experience. It’s an excellent recipe to showcase the freshness of spring produce while being simple enough for kitchen beginners or busy parents looking to whip up meals in a hurry.
Why You’ll Love This
This soup is truly a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Quick Preparation: In just 25 minutes, you can have a wholesome and nutritious soup ready to serve.
- Minimal Ingredients: Using everyday ingredients, this recipe is accessible for anyone, making it perfect for budget-conscious cooking.
- Healthy and Light: Packed with vegetables, this soup offers a nutritious option that brightens your meal plan.
- Comforting Texture: The creamy yet light consistency of the soup is satisfying without being heavy.
- Family-Friendly: Children love the sweet flavor of peas, making this a great way to introduce them to new foods.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this refreshing Spring Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas: Provides the vibrant green color and sweetness essential for spring soups.
- 2 medium potatoes, diced: Acts as the base of the soup, adding creaminess and substance.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds depth and flavor to the soup.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and adding healthy fats.
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth: Provides the liquid base for the soup, with rich flavors to enhance the vegetables.
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional): For a luscious, creamy texture that elevates the soup’s richness.
- Sar salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the ingredients.
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish): A refreshing touch, complementing the peas while adding a pop of color.
How to Make
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Spring Soup:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash, peel, and dice the potatoes, chop the onion, and if using fresh peas, shell them. This prep step ensures everything is ready to go when you start cooking, which saves you time.
- Sauté the Onions: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This process builds a fantastic flavor base for your soup.
- Add the Potatoes: Once the onions are ready, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Stir well and let them cook for another 3 minutes, allowing them to take on the flavors of the onion.
- Pour in the Broth: Add the broth to the pot, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add the Peas: Stir in the peas during the last 3 minutes of cooking. If you’re using frozen peas, there’s no need to thaw them first; simply add them straight to the pot.
- Blend for Creaminess: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just half of the soup. For an extra rich flavor, stir in the heavy cream at this stage.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh mint leaves for a bright, fresh finish. Enjoy your warm bowl of spring flavor!
Variations & Substitutions
Herbed Spring Soup: Enhance the flavor profile by adding your choice of herbs like coriander, dill, or thyme during the sautéing step. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Vegan Version: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based milk such as oat milk to maintain a creamy texture without dairy. Also, ensure to use vegetable broth to keep it vegan-friendly.
Additional Vegetables: Add in some chopped carrots or celery along with the onions for added nutrients and texture, giving your soup more depth.
Spicy Pea & Potato Soup: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne during cooking. It elevates the flavor and delivers a mouthwatering surprise with each spoonful.
Protein-Packed Variation: Stir in some cooked chickpeas or shredded rotisserie chicken for a heartier meal. This additional protein will help turn your soup into a more filling dish, perfect for a standalone dinner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is to overcook the peas, which can lead to a dull flavor and a less appealing color. Keep an eye on the cooking time; add peas near the end of the cooking process. Another issue is over-blending, which can create a gummy texture. Blend just enough to achieve your desired consistency, retaining some chunkiness for interest. Lastly, not tasting as you go can ruin the balance of flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning accordingly.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the soup fresh and flavorful, it’s best to reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If freezing, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. The soup will maintain its quality in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Always ensure to reheat the soup until it is steaming hot to ensure food safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen peas for this recipe? Absolutely! Frozen peas work perfectly in this soup. They’re quick and convenient, and they retain much of their fresh flavor and nutritional value. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; simply add them to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
How can I make this soup gluten-free? This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free broth. Always read the labels on your broth to ensure there are no hidden gluten ingredients.
Is there a way to enhance the flavor without adding calories? Yes! You can add a splash of lemon juice or a few grinds of fresh black pepper to brighten the flavors without significantly altering the calorie count. Fresh herbs are also an excellent option to boost flavor without adding calories.
Can I add meat to this soup? Definitely! Adding cooked chicken or bacon can enhance the flavor and turn it into a heartier meal. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning as needed when adding other proteins.
How do I know when the potatoes are cooked? Potatoes are perfectly cooked when they can be easily pierced with a fork or knife. If they fall apart easily, they have likely overcooked. For the best texture, check them after about 10 minutes of cooking, and test a few pieces for doneness.
Conclusion:
Spring Soup: Pea & Potato Soup is a wonderful way to bring a taste of the season to your table. Quick, easy to prepare, and deliciously satisfying, it’s a recipe worth adding to your meal rotation. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, you’ll find it’s a delightful dish to share with family and friends throughout the year. Enjoy the freshness of spring all year long with this comforting soup that warms the soul!
