Creamy Pea Soup Recipe: A Simple and Delicious Meal
This creamy pea soup recipe is easy to make, delicious, and perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. It's packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a healthy and comforting option for any time of year. This recipe is optimized for search engines, using relevant keywords and semantic variations to improve visibility and attract organic traffic. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups frozen peas
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup milk or cream (for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Getting Started: Sautéing the Vegetables
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Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
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Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't overcook the garlic, or it will become bitter.
Adding the Peas and Broth: Simmering to Perfection
- Stir in the frozen peas and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Allowing the peas to simmer gently helps to release their natural sweetness.
Blending for Creaminess: Achieving the Perfect Texture
- Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, be cautious when blending hot liquids - vent the lid slightly to prevent pressure build-up.
Finishing Touches: Seasoning and Serving
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Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the milk or cream. Heat through gently – do not boil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve hot, garnished with fresh mint leaves (optional) for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Tips for the Best Pea Soup:
- For a thicker soup: Use less broth or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to thicken the soup before blending.
- For a smoother soup: Strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve after blending for an extra-silky texture.
- Add protein: Incorporate cooked ham, bacon, or sausage for a heartier soup.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Make it vegan: Use plant-based milk and broth for a delicious vegan version.
Serving Suggestions:
This creamy pea soup is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with:
- Crusty bread for dipping
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette
- Grilled cheese sandwich
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy meal that is easy to customize to your liking. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations on social media using #CreamyPeaSoup for a chance to be featured!
