Introduction

Chilled Green Pea Soup with Mint is a refreshing, vibrant, and nourishing soup that is perfect for warm weather or as a light starter. Smooth, silky green peas are blended with aromatic herbs, a hint of onion and garlic, and brightened with fresh mint for a flavor that’s clean, fresh, and utterly satisfying.

This soup captures the essence of spring and summer with its vibrant green color and cooling texture. It’s elegant enough for dinner parties but simple enough for a weekday lunch or brunch. The subtle sweetness of the peas paired with the freshness of mint creates a harmonious balance, making it both comforting and invigorating.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers intense flavor with minimal ingredients. The sweetness of fresh peas contrasts beautifully with the herbaceous freshness of mint, and the smooth, creamy texture makes it feel luxurious without needing cream. It’s a light yet satisfying dish that can be enjoyed hot or chilled, making it incredibly versatile.

It’s also visually stunning — the vibrant green color adds beauty to the table, and a swirl of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs elevates the presentation. This is a soup that tastes as good as it looks, and its simplicity allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

This soup is a must-try because it combines freshness, simplicity, and elegance in a single bowl. It’s a perfect introduction to seasonal ingredients and a healthy way to enjoy a nutrient-rich meal. The use of mint adds a unique twist that elevates the flavor beyond a typical pea soup.

Whether served as a starter at a dinner party, a light lunch, or a refreshing summer dish, it’s a recipe that impresses with both flavor and presentation. It’s healthy, vibrant, and versatile, making it a culinary must-have.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1–2 hours
• Total Time: ~1 hour 20 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~120
• Course: Starter / Appetizer
• Cuisine: Modern European / Vegetarian

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 3 cups fresh or frozen green peas
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Optional Garnishes:

• Greek yogurt or crème fraîche
• Extra mint leaves
• Croutons
• Drizzle of olive oil

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method:

1. Sauté Aromatics
   • Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
   • Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
   • Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Cook the Peas
   • Add peas and vegetable broth to the pan.
   • Bring to a simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes until peas are tender.
3. Blend the Soup
   • Remove the soup from heat.
   • Add fresh mint leaves and lemon juice (if using).
   • Blend the mixture using an immersion blender or a countertop blender until smooth and creamy.
4. Season and Chill
   • Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
   • Transfer to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 1–2 hours until well chilled.
5. Serve
   • Pour into bowls.
   • Garnish with a dollop of Greek yogurt, extra mint leaves, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil.
   • Serve cold for a refreshing starter.

How to Serve

• Serve as a light appetizer at a summer lunch or dinner party.
• Pair with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Perfect for picnics or buffet-style meals, as it can be served chilled and held in the fridge.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh peas in season for the best flavor; frozen peas work perfectly too.
• Blending with an immersion blender directly in the pot saves cleanup.
• Adjust mint quantity to your taste; start with 1/4 cup and add more for a stronger flavor.
• Add a touch of cream or yogurt for extra richness if desired.
• Serve chilled, but this soup can also be enjoyed warm for a cozy version.

Variations

• Pea and Spinach Soup: Add a handful of fresh spinach while blending for extra nutrients and color.
• Creamy Version: Stir in 1/4 cup cream or coconut milk for a richer soup.
• Herb Twist: Swap mint for basil or a combination of herbs like parsley and chives.
• Spicy Pea Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a mild kick.
• Garnish Variations: Top with toasted almonds, pumpkin seeds, or a swirl of pesto for extra flavor.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge and stir well before serving.
• Serving Tip: Garnish after reheating or chilling, not before, to maintain freshness.

Special Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Blender or immersion blender
• Knife and cutting board
• Bowl for chilling

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance and chilled in the fridge.

Q2: Can I use frozen peas?
Absolutely — frozen peas work well and retain vibrant color.

Q3: Can this soup be served warm?
Yes, gently heat the soup before serving if desired.

Q4: Can I make it vegan?
Yes, skip yogurt or use a plant-based alternative for garnish.

Q5: How can I make the color more vibrant?
Blanch peas in boiling water for 1–2 minutes before blending, then shock in ice water to preserve color.

Conclusion

Chilled Green Pea Soup with Mint is a refreshing, healthy, and elegant soup that’s perfect for spring and summer. Its vibrant color, silky texture, and bright herbal flavor make it an ideal appetizer or light meal. Easy to prepare, versatile, and visually stunning, this soup is a must-try for anyone seeking a deliciously fresh and wholesome dish.