Spring Pea And Lemon Soup

Name: Spring Pea And Lemon Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh peas (or frozen); 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cups vegetable broth; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh mint for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Celebration Seasonal Food Favorites

When fresh peas are in season, I can't resist making a delightful Spring Pea and Lemon Soup. The bright color and refreshing flavors really capture the essence of spring. I love how the simplicity of the ingredients allows each flavor to shine through, while the lemon adds a zesty twist that elevates the dish. This soup not only warms the soul but also brightens up any table with its vibrant hue. It's a dish that I look forward to making every year, celebrating the arrival of spring in a bowl.

Created by

June Weatherby

Last updated on 2026-02-16T06:10:37.018Z

Making this Spring Pea and Lemon Soup has become a cherished spring tradition for me. The first time I made it, I was amazed at how just a handful of fresh ingredients could create such a vibrant and flavorful dish. I remember picking the peas straight from the garden, and it transformed the soup into something truly special.

One specific detail I’ve learned over the years is to sauté the onions and garlic before adding the peas. This step caramelizes them slightly, enhancing the savory depth of the soup and balancing the bright acidity of the lemon. Trust me, it makes a world of difference.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and refreshing flavors perfect for spring
Easy to make with just a few ingredients
Deliciously vibrant color that looks stunning in any bowl

Choosing the Right Peas

Using fresh peas in this Spring Pea and Lemon Soup not only enhances the dish's flavor but also contributes to its beautiful green color. Look for vibrant green pods with a firm texture when selecting fresh peas. If fresh peas are out of season or unavailable, frozen peas are a fantastic substitute. They are usually harvested at peak ripeness and quickly frozen, maintaining their sweetness and vibrant color, making them a reliable option for this soup.

Peas are a key ingredient in this soup, bringing a subtle sweetness and a creamy texture when blended. They also hold onto moisture, which is vital for the soup's consistency. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, you can sauté the peas for a couple of minutes after adding them to the pot before adding the broth – this can enhance their natural sweetness.

Perfecting the Blend

When blending the soup, the texture is crucial. An immersion blender is ideal since it allows you to blend directly in the pot, minimizing the risk of spills. Blend until the soup is glossy and smooth; if you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse briefly or leave a few peas intact. If using a traditional blender, let the soup cool slightly before transferring small batches, as blending hot liquid can create pressure and lead to messy splatters.

Don't rush the blending stage. Taking your time ensures that all the ingredients are well incorporated, resulting in a velvety soup. If you find the soup too thick after blending, feel free to add a bit more vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency before reheating.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Spring Pea and Lemon Soup:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh peas (or frozen)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cups vegetable broth
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh mint for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Spring Pea and Lemon Soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Cook the Peas

Add the fresh or frozen peas to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes until the peas are tender.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, carefully purée the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches.

Add Lemon Flavor

Stir in the lemon juice and zest, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup back to a gentle heat before serving.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh mint if desired. Enjoy your vibrant spring dish!

Pro Tips

For added creaminess, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream just before serving. This will balance the acidity of the lemon beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Spring Pea and Lemon Soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its vibrant color and flavors, store it in an airtight container. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even warming without cooking further, which can dull the green color and fresh taste.

If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s best to do so before adding the lemon juice and zest, as these ingredients can lose their brightness after being frozen. Freeze the cooled soup in airtight freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, reheat gently, and then stir in the lemon for a fresh finish.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant touch, serve the soup in chilled bowls to enhance the refreshing qualities of the dish. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving can elevate the presentation and add a touch of sophistication. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a light spring meal that feels special.

To diversify your dining experience, consider topping the soup with croutons, a dollop of crème fraîche, or even toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor. Each option brings a new dimension to the dish, making it versatile for various palates.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen peas work wonderfully in this soup and save you some prep time.

→ How long can I store the soup?

You can store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Is this soup vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no dairy products.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup can be frozen. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.