If you have been searching for a comforting yet vibrant soup to brighten your table, this Cream of Pea Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a luscious blend of sweet green peas, fragrant herbs, and creamy richness that comes together in a silky smooth texture. This soup is incredibly easy to make, packed with fresh flavors, and perfect for any season. Whether you want a light lunch or a starter for dinner, the freshness of peas combined with the gentle creaminess will leave you craving more. Let me walk you through every step of making this delightful dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this stunning Cream of Pea Soup, you only need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: from the sweetness of peas to the depth from onions and the creamy touch from milk and butter, everything contributes beautifully to the final taste, texture, and color.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds a rich, silky base and helps soften the onions.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides savory depth and a mild sweetness once sautéed.
- 3 cups green peas (fresh or frozen): The star ingredient that brings natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth): Gives the liquid foundation and enhances flavor complexity.
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half): Creates that unmistakable creamy mouthfeel without overpowering the peas.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and elevating all the flavors.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Adds an aromatic hint that complements the sweetness of peas.
- ¼ cup heavy cream: Boosts richness and smoothness for the finishing touch.
- Fresh mint, parsley, or thyme: Fresh herbs bring brightness and a subtle herbal note.
- A pinch of sugar (if peas aren’t very sweet): Enhances natural sweetness without tasting artificial.
How to Make Cream of Pea Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Start by melting the butter in a soup pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Let them cook gently for about 5 minutes until they become soft, translucent, and irresistibly fragrant. This foundational step builds the savory backbone of your soup.
Step 2: Simmer the Peas
Next, stir in the fresh or frozen peas along with the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer. This simmering process softens the peas perfectly, usually about 10 minutes, allowing their natural sweetness to infuse the broth.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Now for the magic moment — pureeing your soup. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blitz everything into a smooth, silky consistency. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Return the blended soup to the pot once all is smooth and lump-free.
Step 4: Add the Milk and Cream
Stir in the whole milk or half-and-half, followed by the heavy cream for extra lusciousness. Warm the soup gently on low heat for 2 to 3 minutes without boiling, allowing all the creamy ingredients to meld beautifully. At this stage, season with salt and pepper, and add a pinch of sugar if your peas need a touch more sweetness.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Garnish
Finally, ladle this gorgeous soup into bowls. Don’t forget to add your favorite garnishes like a drizzle of heavy cream, fresh herbs such as mint or parsley, or even a few whole peas for a fun textural contrast. Serving it warm lets the flavors shine and the aroma welcome everyone to the table.
How to Serve Cream of Pea Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Decorating your soup with fresh herbs like mint, parsley, or thyme not only enhances the taste but also adds a burst of color that makes it visually stunning. A swirl of heavy cream or a small dollop of crème fraîche creates a creamy swirl that looks enticing. For a bit of crunch, lightly toasted breadcrumbs or crispy bacon bits work wonders as well.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, whether a rustic baguette or a fluffy dinner roll, perfect for dipping into that creamy goodness. A crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast, or try serving alongside a warm grilled cheese for a nostalgic, cozy meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, consider serving the Cream of Pea Soup Recipe in small espresso cups as a sophisticated appetizer. Garnish each with a tiny sprig of fresh mint or edible flowers to impress guests. Another fun idea is to serve the soup chilled with a dollop of crème fraîche on top, turning it into a summery treat that still honors the classic flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cream of Pea Soup keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before storing, make sure the soup has cooled down to room temperature to preserve freshness and prevent condensation.
Freezing
If you want to extend the shelf life, this soup freezes very well. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some headroom for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or scorching. If it feels too thick, simply add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency. Avoid boiling to keep the creamy texture silky and smooth.
FAQs
Can I make this Cream of Pea Soup Recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for olive oil and use a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk, and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a vegan cream alternative. Using vegetable broth ensures it stays fully vegan.
Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen peas are a convenient and reliable substitute that works just as well, especially when fresh peas are out of season. They retain their sweetness and vibrant green color when cooked properly.
How do I make the soup thicker or thinner?
To thicken the soup, simmer it a bit longer uncovered so some liquid evaporates. For a thinner soup, add extra broth or milk gradually until you reach your preferred consistency.
Is garlic essential in this recipe?
Garlic adds a lovely aromatic depth but it is optional. If you are not a fan or want a milder flavor, you can leave it out without compromising the overall deliciousness of the soup.
Can I prepare this soup ahead of time for a party?
Definitely. You can make the soup a day in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat gently just before serving, then add fresh garnishes for that just-made feel. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dish that saves you time and stress on party day.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this creamy, dreamy Cream of Pea Soup Recipe. It’s a refreshing way to highlight peas and makes every bite feel like a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this soup is sure to impress and comfort all at once. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get that pot on the stove—deliciousness awaits!
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Cream of Pea Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy and comforting Cream of Pea Soup is a simple and delicious way to enjoy fresh or frozen peas. Sautéed onions and garlic create a flavorful base, while vegetable or chicken broth and milk add richness. Blended until smooth and garnished with fresh herbs and cream, this soup is perfect for a light lunch or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
Dairy
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (for richness)
Seasonings and Garnishes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh mint, parsley, or thyme (for garnish)
- A pinch of sugar (optional, if peas aren’t very sweet)
Instructions
- Sauté the onions: Melt butter in a soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent, releasing their sweetness.
- Simmer the peas: Add the green peas and vegetable or chicken broth into the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
- Blend until smooth: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup to a creamy texture, or carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree. Return the blended soup to the pot if needed.
- Add milk: Stir in the whole milk or half-and-half along with the heavy cream. Gently warm the soup over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes, making sure not to boil. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, and add a pinch of sugar if the soup needs extra sweetness.
- Serve warm: Ladle the creamy pea soup into bowls. Garnish with a drizzle of heavy cream and fresh herbs like mint, parsley, or thyme, and optionally a few whole peas for texture and visual appeal.
Notes
- Use fresh peas in spring for the best flavor, but frozen peas work well year-round.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil and use plant-based milk and cream alternatives.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more or less broth and milk depending on your preference.
- The pinch of sugar is optional and helps balance the natural sweetness of the peas if needed.
- Serve with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
