This Cream of Pea Soup is a delightful combination of simplicity and elegance, perfect for both busy weeknights and leisurely lunches.
Its naturally vibrant green color comes from fresh or frozen peas, offering a nutrient-rich base that’s packed with plant-based protein and fiber, which support digestive health and sustained energy.
The addition of a touch of cream creates a silky texture without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the peas, while keeping saturated fat relatively low when used sparingly.
Lightly seasoned with garlic and onion, this soup provides comforting warmth and satisfying flavor, making it a versatile option for everyday cooking.
It’s quick to prepare, requiring only about 40 minutes from start to finish, and its creamy texture makes it an excellent candidate for meal prep, easily stored and reheated without losing quality.
Garnishing with fresh herbs such as parsley or mint adds freshness and a nutritional boost, making this soup a wholesome, elegant, and practical addition to any weeknight menu.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Large Soup Pot
Essential for sautéing onions and garlic and simmering the peas and broth. Its sturdy construction ensures even heating and prevents scorching, making it a versatile kitchen staple for soups, stews, and sauces.
Immersion Blender
Perfect for turning cooked peas into a smooth, velvety soup directly in the pot. Beyond soups, it’s invaluable for smoothies, purees, and sauces, offering convenience and minimal cleanup.
Chef’s Knife
A sharp knife is crucial for chopping onions and garlic efficiently and safely. It’s a fundamental tool in every kitchen, useful for vegetables, herbs, and other meal prep tasks.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements of broth, cream, and seasonings ensure consistent flavor every time. They’re essential for baking, cooking, and portion control.
Ladle
Ideal for serving hot soup into bowls without spills. Beyond soups, it’s useful for sauces, stews, and even punch or beverages.
Healthy Cream of Pea Soup
Equipment
- 1 Large Soup Pot
- 1 Immersion Blender
- 1 Chef’s Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 Ladle
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 3 cups fresh or frozen green peas
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream or plain yogurt/sour cream as substitute
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter until it shimmers. Add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic, stirring constantly for about 5 minutes, until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter. This step builds the base flavor and aroma for your soup.
- Combine Broth and Peas: Pour in 3 cups of vegetable broth, then add 3 cups of fresh or frozen green peas. Season lightly with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/3 teaspoon pepper, stirring gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes until the peas are tender and fully cooked.
- Blend Until Smooth: Once the peas are soft, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until silky and creamy. If using a regular blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches, blending until smooth, then return it to the pot. Be cautious of hot liquid splashes, and pulse gradually for best results.
- Add Cream and Adjust Flavor: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream (or substitute with yogurt/sour cream) to enrich the soup and give it a velvety texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed. Heat gently over low heat just until warmed through—never boil, as this can alter the flavor and texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and optionally sprinkle with fresh parsley or mint for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm, enjoying the smooth, comforting, and nutrient-rich flavor of this elegant yet easy-to-make soup.
Notes
- Fresh or frozen peas can be used interchangeably; frozen peas work perfectly year-round and retain vibrant color.
- Use an immersion blender for safety and ease, but a countertop blender works too—blend in small batches to prevent spills.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with plain yogurt or sour cream for a lighter, tangy version.
- Taste and adjust seasoning after blending; pea sweetness can vary depending on freshness.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or chives to elevate flavor and presentation.
Chef’s Secrets To Perfect Soup
To achieve a silky, velvety texture, it’s essential to sauté the onions and garlic until soft before adding the peas.
This step releases natural sweetness and deepens flavor.
Using fresh herbs and high-quality vegetable broth enhances the soup’s freshness.
For an ultra-smooth finish, strain the soup after blending to remove any fibrous bits.
If you prefer a slightly lighter version, replace half the cream with plain yogurt just before serving, stirring gently to maintain creaminess.
Serving Suggestions For Creamy Delight
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic crostini, or a simple grilled cheese sandwich.
For a more substantial meal, serve with a side salad topped with a lemon vinaigrette.
Garnish with a drizzle of cream, fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added texture.
Cream of pea soup also works as a starter for dinner parties or a light lunch, making it a versatile and elegant option for any occasion.
Storage Tips For Soup Longevity
Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing in airtight containers.
Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days, and gently reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Avoid boiling the soup when reheating, as this can affect texture and flavor.
If needed, add a splash of broth or cream to restore the silky consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Soup
1. Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen peas are an excellent substitute and retain both flavor and vibrant color. No thawing is necessary—they can be added directly to the simmering broth.
2. Can I make this soup vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Replace butter with olive oil and use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a vegan-friendly version.
3. How can I make it extra smooth?
For the smoothest texture, blend thoroughly with an immersion blender and optionally pass the soup through a fine mesh sieve to remove any remaining solids.
4. Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator and reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed.
5. What herbs pair best with pea soup?
Mint, parsley, and chives complement the sweet, earthy flavor of peas beautifully. Add fresh herbs at the end of cooking or as a garnish for a fresh, aromatic finish.
This recipe has been adapted and simplified from the original version by brooklynfarmgirl. We’ve refined the steps for a smoother cooking experience and added helpful notes, nutrition insights, and essential kitchen tools to make it even easier for home cooks.
