Ah, spring! The season of blooming flowers, chirping birds, and—let’s not forget—deliciously vibrant food. One of my absolute favorites to whip up during this time is a comforting bowl of Spring Onion and Pea Soup. It’s bright, refreshing, and so easy to make, even on the busiest of days. Each time I make this soup, it takes me right back to sunny afternoons spent in my grandmother’s garden, where sweet peas climbed up trellises, and spring onions were always begging to be picked.
This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s nutrient-packed, nourishing, and brings all the flavors of spring right to your kitchen. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up any fresh produce you have on hand. Believe me when I say, there’s nothing quite like that first spoonful of rich broth mingled with tender peas and fragrant spring onions. Trust me; you’ll want to make this soup part of your regular rotation!
What’s in Spring Onion and Pea Soup?
Let’s chat about the stars of the show in this delightful soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
Olive Oil: A tablespoon of this liquid gold adds richness and a touch of healthy fat to our soup. I love using extra virgin olive oil for that deep flavor!
Onion: One medium onion, finely chopped, gives it that lovely aromatic base. Sautéing it brings out its natural sweetness, which makes all the difference.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth: You’ll need 4 cups for that comforting, soupy goodness. Homemade is the best, but when you’re in a pinch, I always reach for low-sodium store-bought broth.
Fresh Peas: Two cups of these beauties pack a sweet punch! Whether you go for fresh or frozen, they’re chock-full of vitamins and minerals.
Spring Onions: 3-4 spring onions add a mild onion flavor. Be sure to save some for garnish for that beautiful final touch!
Small Pasta: 1/2 cup of orzo or another tiny variety will make this soup even heartier. It’s like little edible hugs in each spoonful.
Salt and Pepper: These essential seasonings elevate the soup, tailoring it to your taste.
Fresh Herbs: If you have some parsley or mint hanging around, they make a beautiful garnish and enhance the flavor, too!
Is Spring Onion and Pea Soup Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This soup not only warms your soul but is also incredibly nutritious.
Peas: Packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidants, they are great for maintaining a healthy gut and can help lower cholesterol. Plus, they add a natural sweetness that’s oh-so-satisfying!
Spring Onions: These little guys are rich in vitamins A and C, which are fantastic for your immune system. They also add a fresh bite without overwhelming the palate.
Olive Oil: A source of healthy fats, it’s heart-healthy and can even help with inflammation.
Using vegetable broth makes this soup a great option for vegetarians and vegans, and the fresh ingredients mean you’re keeping things natural and wholesome—perfect for fueling your body during the bright, busy days of spring.
Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 2 cups fresh peas (or frozen)
– 3-4 spring onions, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
– 1/2 cup small pasta (such as orzo or tiny soup pasta)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional, e.g., parsley or mint)
This recipe serves 4 hearty bowls of happiness.
How to Make Spring Onion and Pea Soup?
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Oh, the aroma!
2. Pour in the broth, and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic starts.
3. Next, stir in the peas and chopped spring onions. Let everything simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the peas are tender. Pro tip: taste a pea to make sure it’s just how you like it!
4. While the soup is simmering, cook the small pasta in a separate pot according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain it and set it aside for later.
5. When your peas have softened up, add the cooked pasta to the soup. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with your reserved chopped spring onions and fresh herbs for an extra touch of flair. Dive in and enjoy every last spoonful!
Delightful Variations and Tips
– If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add other seasonal veggies like zucchini or asparagus. Just chop them small and add them in at the same time as the peas.
– For a creamier texture, blend half of the soup and return it to the pot, or add a splash of cream or coconut milk.
– This soup freezes beautifully! So, double the batch, and you’ll have a quick meal ready to go for those busy nights.
So there you have it—my go-to Spring Onion and Pea Soup recipe! I can’t wait for you to try it out. Cooking is all about enjoying the process, so don’t hesitate to make this soup your own. If you do give it a try, drop me a note about how it turned out—I’d love to hear what your experience was like! Happy cooking!
