As the warmth of spring gently unfurls, our palates yearn for something light, vibrant, and refreshingly green. Enter the chilled spring pea and mint soup-a culinary celebration of nature’s early harvest. This velvety, cool delight harmonizes the sweet, tender peas with the bright, invigorating notes of fresh mint, creating a soup that’s as nourishing as it is invigorating. Whether served as a sophisticated starter or a revitalizing midday treat, this vibrant green potion captures the essence of spring’s freshness in every spoonful. Join us as we explore the art of crafting this refreshing green delight, perfect for those sunny days when you crave a burst of wholesome flavor with a crisp, cooling finish.
Refreshing Green Delight: Chilled Spring Pea & Mint Soup bursts with vibrant flavor and nutritional goodness, making it the perfect way to welcome warmer days. This classic dish, inspired by Mediterranean simplicity and spring’s freshest ingredients, marries the sweet earthiness of green peas with the bright, cool essence of mint. I first discovered this soup on a sunlit terrace in Provence, where its cool freshness instantly captivated me. It’s not only a soothing palate cleanser but also a nutritional powerhouse, celebrating peas’ plant-based protein and fiber alongside mint’s digestive benefits.
Prep and Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour (minimum)
Yield
Serves 4 generous portions
Difficulty Level
Easy – perfect for home cooks eager to master chilled soups and fresh, spring flavors
Ingredients
- 450g fresh or frozen green peas, thawed if frozen
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 small potato (about 100g), peeled and diced
- 750ml vegetable stock (preferably low sodium)
- 1 handful fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Greek yogurt or crème fraîche (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Sauté the shallot and potato: In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Toss in the diced potato and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
- Simmer with peas and stock: Add the peas and pour in the vegetable stock. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the potato is tender, about 8 minutes. Keep an eye to avoid overcooking-peas should remain bright and fresh in flavor.
- Blend with mint: Transfer the mixture to a blender. Add the fresh mint leaves, lemon juice, and remaining olive oil. Blend until silky smooth. For an extra creamy texture, strain through a fine sieve.
- Chill to perfection: Pour the soup into a covered container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling enhances the flavors and ensures a truly refreshing experience.
- Adjust seasoning & serve: Before serving, stir and adjust salt and pepper. Serve chilled, garnished with a dollop of Greek yogurt or crème fraîche and a sprig of mint.
Tips for Success
- Fresh or frozen peas: Both work beautifully; fresh peas make it sweeter, while frozen ensures convenience and consistency.
- Consistency control: Add a splash of cold water or extra stock if you prefer a thinner soup.
- Make ahead: This soup keeps well for up to 2 days-just stir well before serving.
- Enhance texture: For a crunchy contrast, sprinkle toasted sliced almonds or microgreens atop your serving bowls.
- Mint substitutes: If fresh mint is unavailable, fresh basil or cilantro add an exciting twist.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Spring Pea and Mint Soup Experience
Serve this vibrant chilled green delight in elegant chilled bowls or clear glass cups to showcase its verdant hue. Accompany with a side of crusty artisan bread or crisp cucumber ribbons tossed with lemon zest and olive oil for contrasting textures. For a sophisticated touch, drizzle with high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a tiny splash of truffle oil. A few edible flowers, such as nasturtium or violets, can add an Instagram-worthy pop of color.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
For additional inspiration and vegetable-forward spring recipes, explore our spring vegetable collection. To deepen your knowledge of pea nutrition and benefits, visit the British Nutrition Foundation.
Q&A
Q&A: Refreshing Green Delight – Chilled Spring Pea & Mint Soup
Q1: What makes the Chilled Spring Pea & Mint Soup a perfect dish for spring?
A1: This vibrant soup captures the essence of spring with its fresh, garden-picked peas and aromatic mint. Served cold, it offers a refreshing, light, and invigorating taste that complements the season’s awakening flavors perfectly.
Q2: How do peas and mint work together in this soup?
A2: Peas provide a natural sweetness and creamy texture, while mint adds a cool, bright, and slightly herbal note. Together, they create a harmonious balance that feels both fresh and indulgent.
Q3: Is this soup difficult to prepare?
A3: Not at all! With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps-blending fresh peas, mint, a touch of onion or garlic, vegetable stock, and a splash of cream-you can whip up this elegant dish in under 30 minutes.
Q4: Can the soup be made ahead of time?
A4: Absolutely! In fact, chilling the soup for a few hours before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more refreshing and delicious when enjoyed cold.
Q5: Are there any variations to customize this soup?
A5: Definitely! You can add a squeeze of lemon for brightness, a hint of ginger for warmth, or swap cream for coconut milk to make it dairy-free. Garnishing with toasted nuts or a drizzle of olive oil adds texture and richness.
Q6: Who would enjoy this soup the most?
A6: Anyone who loves fresh, seasonal ingredients and light meals-gardeners, health-conscious foodies, or those seeking an elegant starter for spring gatherings will find this soup irresistible.
Q7: How nutritious is the Chilled Spring Pea & Mint Soup?
A7: This soup is a vitamin-packed delight; peas offer fiber, protein, and antioxidants, while mint supports digestion and refreshes the palate. It’s a guilt-free way to nourish your body while indulging in vibrant flavors.
Q8: What is the best way to serve this soup?
A8: Serve it chilled in small bowls or glasses, garnished with a few mint leaves and a swirl of cream or olive oil. Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for a perfect springtime meal.
Closing Remarks
As the gentle warmth of spring unfolds, this chilled spring pea and mint soup offers a vibrant escape-each spoonful a delicate dance of garden-fresh sweetness and cooling herbaceous notes. Whether served as a light starter or a revitalizing midday treat, it captures the essence of the season’s bounty with effortless elegance. Embrace this refreshing green delight to awaken your palate and celebrate the simple joys of nature’s freshest flavors. Your journey to wholesome, crisp refreshment starts here-sip, savor, and savor again.
