Spring Broccoli And Pea Soup
Highlighted under: Seasonal Feast Studio
When I first made this Spring Broccoli and Pea Soup, I was pleasantly surprised by how vibrant and fresh it turned out. The combination of tender broccoli and sweet peas creates a beautiful contrast, both in flavor and color. It’s the perfect bowl of warmth that ushers in the sunny days of spring. Not only is it healthy, but this soup comes together in just a snap, leaving you with more time to enjoy the season’s splendor with friends and family.
As spring unfurls its petals, I feel inspired to create dishes that celebrate the season's bounty. This soup was born out of a need for something light yet filling, and it didn’t disappoint. The addition of fresh herbs brightens up the dish, making every spoonful a delight, and experimenting with vegetable stock instead of plain water made a noticeable difference in flavor.
What I love about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily swap in any seasonal greens you have on hand—spinach or kale works beautifully too! I highly recommend giving it a try with a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for an extra zing; it elevates the entire dish and highlights the freshness of the peas and broccoli.
You'll Love This Soup Because
- It's a quick and easy recipe that's packed with nutrients.
- The combination of broccoli and peas creates a fresh, sweet flavor profile.
- It's easily adaptable to include any seasonal greens you love.
Understanding the Ingredients
The vibrant green hues of broccoli and peas not only provide visual appeal but also contribute essential nutrients and flavors to the soup. Broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamins K and C, supporting immunity and bone health. Using fresh, tender florets is key; look for bright green, tightly closed buds that are firm to the touch. If you only have frozen broccoli on hand, that's a fine substitute; it will still yield a delicious flavor profile.
The sweetness of peas contrasts beautifully with the earthiness of the broccoli. If you want to swap the frozen peas for fresh ones, you can blanch them for a minute before adding them to the soup. This quick cooking method brightens their color and flavor, ensuring they pop in the final dish. Additionally, herbs like basil or mint can elevate the fresh taste, so don't hesitate to experiment with whichever greens inspire you!
Essential Cooking Techniques
Sautéing the onion and garlic before adding the broth is a crucial step. It develops a rich base that enhances the overall flavor of the soup. Aim for the onion to become translucent but not browned; this should take about five minutes on medium heat. Keeping an eye on this process is important as burnt onion can impart an undesired bitterness to the final soup.
When blending the soup, using an immersion blender helps maintain a smooth consistency. If you opt for a traditional blender, blend in small batches and be cautious of the steam that builds up; allow a little venting to avoid a messy overflow. The goal is a silky texture that makes every spoonful delightful, so blending until completely smooth is vital.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to start making your soup.
Soup Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups frozen peas
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (like basil or mint) for garnish
Make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go for a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious soup.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer.
Cook the Vegetables
Add the broccoli florets and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the frozen peas and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a blender in batches.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm garnished with fresh herbs.
Enjoy your fresh, vibrant soup with crusty bread or a light salad!
Pro Tips
- Try adding a splash of cream or a dollop of yogurt for an even creamier texture.
Storage and Reheating
This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it ideal for meal prep. To store, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. You can also freeze the soup for up to three months. Just be sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as it will expand when frozen. When reheating, either use a stovetop over low heat or a microwave, making sure to stir occasionally for even warming.
Reheating your soup may alter its texture slightly due to the creaminess that can develop over time. If you find the soup has thickened in the fridge, simply add a little vegetable broth or water when reheating to reach your desired consistency.
Making Variations
Feel free to explore different flavor variations as you make this soup your own! For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onion and garlic. If you prefer creamier soup, a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of sour cream can be blended in after cooking for added richness.
For a heartier dish, you can add other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach. Simply chop them into small pieces and add them at the same time as the broccoli or peas. This not only diversifies the textures but also enhances the nutritional value of your soup, making it even more satisfying.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh peas will add an even sweeter flavor to the soup.
→ How long can I store the soup?
You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
It's great alongside crusty bread, a green salad, or even as a starter before a larger meal.
Spring Broccoli And Pea Soup
When I first made this Spring Broccoli and Pea Soup, I was pleasantly surprised by how vibrant and fresh it turned out. The combination of tender broccoli and sweet peas creates a beautiful contrast, both in flavor and color. It’s the perfect bowl of warmth that ushers in the sunny days of spring. Not only is it healthy, but this soup comes together in just a snap, leaving you with more time to enjoy the season’s splendor with friends and family.
Created by: Sabrina Holt
Recipe Type: Seasonal Feast Studio
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Soup Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups frozen peas
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (like basil or mint) for garnish
How-To Steps
In a pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer.
Add the broccoli florets and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the frozen peas and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a blender in batches.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm garnished with fresh herbs.
Extra Tips
- Try adding a splash of cream or a dollop of yogurt for an even creamier texture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 9g