Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Spring Soup: Pea & Spinach Soup is a refreshing, vibrant dish that comes together in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy parents and kitchen beginners, this recipe offers a quick and healthy meal that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. With fresh peas and spinach, this soup captures the essence of spring, delivering a delightful balance of taste and texture.
What Is Spring Soup: Pea & Spinach Soup in 20 Minutes?
Spring Soup: Pea & Spinach Soup is a bright and creamy soup that features sweet green peas and fresh spinach as its main ingredients. This dish is ideal for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet without sacrificing flavor. With a hint of onion and garlic, the vegetables are blended to create a smooth, rich texture that’s comforting yet light.
Why You’ll Love This
You’ll fall in love with this Spring Soup not just for its quick preparation but also for its fresh ingredients that hit all the right notes. In just 20 minutes, you can create a dish that’s both healthy and comforting, making it ideal for **busy weeknights** or **meal prep**. The bright green color alone is inviting, and your family will be delighted with its taste. It’s also a perfect option for **budget cooking**, letting you enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas: Peas add a natural sweetness and bright color to the soup.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Spinach provides a rich source of vitamins and a lovely green hue.
- 1 medium onion: The onion is essential for adding flavor; it brings a mild sweetness when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic: Garlic enhances the dish with its aromatic qualities and savory depth.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: A good quality broth serves as the base, imparting a deeper flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use olive oil for a healthy fat that enriches the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These crucial seasonings bring out the other flavors in the soup.
How to Make
- Prepare the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. If you’re using fresh peas, shell them. Fresh ingredients will significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it turns soft and translucent. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the broth and peas: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the peas and cook for about 5 minutes. If you’re using frozen peas, you can add them directly from the package.
- Incorporate the spinach: Stir in the spinach until it wilts down. This should take about 2 minutes. The spinach will lose its volume but gain that rich, vibrant color and flavor.
- Blend the soup: Remove the pot from the heat and use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. You can also transfer batches to a countertop blender if you prefer. Make sure to blend thoroughly for a creamy consistency.
- Season and serve: After blending, return the pot to low heat. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste, then serve hot. A sprinkle of extra peas or a drizzle of olive oil on top makes for a beautiful presentation.
Variations & Substitutions
Herbed Variation: Add a cup of fresh herbs such as basil or mint before blending for a refreshing taste. These herbs will enhance the soup’s spring-like qualities and provide a delightful fragrance.
Coconut Cream Variation: For a richer texture, add coconut cream after blending. The creaminess of coconut pairs wonderfully with the flavors of peas and spinach, creating a unique twist.
Spicy Variation: If you enjoy a bit of heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions. This will give your soup a warm kick that balances well with the sweetness of the peas.
Protein-Packed Variation: Add cooked chickpeas or shredded chicken to the soup for extra protein. Stir them in after blending to enhance the heartiness of the dish, making it even more filling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not sautéing the onion and garlic properly: Sautéing is a crucial step that builds flavor. If you skip this step or rush it, you might end up with a bland base.
Overcooking the peas: Peas cook quickly. If they are overcooked, they lose their fresh flavor and vibrant color, making the soup less appealing.
Using low-quality broth: The broth serves as the foundation of your soup. A poor-quality broth can lead to a subpar dish. Always opt for a fresh or homemade broth for the best results.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
This Spring Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. If freezing, ladle the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, reheat frozen soup directly from the freezer in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned peas instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, you can use canned peas in this recipe. However, you’ll need to adjust your cooking time since canned peas are already cooked. Add them to the broth only for the last few minutes of cooking.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Just store it in the fridge or freeze as previously mentioned.
Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this Spring Soup is vegan-friendly. Ensure that your vegetable broth is completely plant-based, and you’ll have a nourishing and satisfying dish suitable for all diets.
What can I serve alongside this soup?
A crusty sourdough or whole-grain bread complements this soup beautifully. Consider pairing it with a simple salad for a complete meal.
How can I adjust the thickness of the soup?
You can easily adjust the thickness by adding more broth for a thinner soup or by blending less for a chunkier consistency. It’s all about personal preference!
Conclusion: Spring Soup: Pea & Spinach Soup in 20 minutes is not only quick to prepare but also a healthful addition to your meal repertoire. With vibrant ingredients and easy steps, this soup makes for a delightful dining experience that you can enjoy any time of the year. It’s a fantastic option for busy parents, kitchen novices, and anyone in search of healthy eating without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup and fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas of spring!
