Description
This vibrant Green Pea Soup is a creamy, flavorful, and nutritious option perfect for any season. Made with fresh shallots, frozen peas, fragrant basil, and a hint of lime, this soup can be served warm or chilled. It’s easy to prepare, packed with fresh ingredients, and offers a delightful balance of herbaceous and tangy flavors, finished with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for added richness.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1¼ cups roughly chopped shallots (from 3 large shallots)
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 pounds (6 cups) frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ cup roughly chopped fresh basil leaves, plus more for serving
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from 1 lime)
Instructions
- Sauté Shallots: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the chopped shallots and gently cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes until they are soft and translucent but not browned.
- Cook the Soup: Add the vegetable broth, frozen peas, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to combine and peas to soften.
- Puree the Soup: Remove the pot from heat. Add the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, and lime juice. Use a stick blender to puree the soup until it is smooth and creamy. If you do not have a stick blender, let the soup cool slightly and puree in batches in a stand blender, taking care to vent the lid and prevent splattering. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve or Chill: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra basil leaves if desired. The soup can be served warm or chilled for a refreshing cold soup.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup thickens as it cools, add a little water to reach your preferred consistency.
- Freezer Instructions: To freeze, store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat until hot.
Notes
- This soup thickens as it cools; thin with water if needed.
- Can be served hot or cold depending on preference.
- Freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Use a stick blender for best texture; otherwise use a stand blender carefully to avoid splatters.
- Adjust salt and lime juice to taste for a balanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
