There is nothing quite as refreshing and vibrant as a bowl of springtime goodness in the form of an Asparagus and Pea Soup Recipe. This bright green soup combines fresh asparagus and green peas with just the right touch of lemon and garlic, making it creamy, flavorful, and perfectly light. It’s a stunning dish that feels luxurious but is incredibly simple to prepare, capturing the essence of fresh vegetables beautifully. Whether you’re looking for a starter or a light meal, this soup will quickly become a favorite go-to for both everyday cooking and special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Asparagus and Pea Soup Recipe lies in its straightforward and fresh ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen not only to enhance the flavor but also to contribute to the soup’s bright color and velvety texture.
- Fresh asparagus (1 lb): Use fresh, firm stalks for the best flavor and vibrant green color.
- Green peas (2 cups): Fresh peas are ideal, but frozen peas also bring sweetness that complements the asparagus.
- Vegetable stock (4 cups): This is the flavorful base that brings everything together while keeping the soup light.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Bring a gentle aromatic kick without overpowering the fresh veggies.
- Lemon juice (2 tbsp): A splash of acidity to brighten the entire dish.
- Extra virgin olive oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing and a silky finish when drizzled on top.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance the natural flavors.
How to Make Asparagus and Pea Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating your extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Adding diced onion and minced garlic first is crucial because it softens them and brings out their natural sweetness, creating a wonderful foundation for the soup. Cook gently for about 4-5 minutes, stirring regularly until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Next, add the chopped asparagus and green peas to the pot. Stir these bright green beauties around for 3-4 minutes. You want them to become slightly tender but still maintain their vibrant color and fresh flavor—it’s this freshness that makes this Asparagus and Pea Soup Recipe so delightful.
Step 3: Simmer in Stock
Pour in the vegetable stock, making sure all the vegetables are submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. This slow simmer allows the vegetables to soften thoroughly, blending their flavors into the stock and creating the perfect base for your soup.
Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
Once the vegetables are tender, remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s silky smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, pour the soup in batches into a countertop blender. The smooth texture is what makes this Asparagus and Pea Soup Recipe feel so luxurious and comforting.
Step 5: Season and Warm Through
Return the blended soup to low heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. The lemon juice is a game changer here, adding a zesty brightness that elevates the subtle earthiness of the asparagus and peas. Warm the soup gently before serving to blend the flavors perfectly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your vibrant green soup into bowls. A light drizzle of olive oil or some crispy croutons on top makes every spoonful even more delicious. This final touch adds a lovely texture contrast and richness that makes this Asparagus and Pea Soup Recipe truly irresistible.
How to Serve Asparagus and Pea Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A garnish can transform your soup from simple to special. Try a little swirl of cream or a drizzle of your best olive oil to add richness. Fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley add a burst of flavor and color, while crunchy croutons lend a delightful texture.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the bright flavors, and a slice of crusty artisan bread rounds out the meal perfectly. For something heartier, serve alongside a quinoa salad or a mild cheese plate to keep the meal balanced and interesting.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve the soup in small bowls or even hollowed-out bread rolls for a rustic touch. You could also pour it over a dollop of herbed yogurt or ricotta on each plate, or serve it chilled as a refreshing starter on a warm day. Presenting the soup with edible flowers or microgreens adds a beautiful, instagram-worthy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit after resting, making the next-day soup even tastier. Just give it a good stir before reheating.
Freezing
This Asparagus and Pea Soup Recipe freezes well. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain its fresh texture and color.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Avoid boiling as it can dull the vibrant color and fresh flavors. Once warmed through, adjust seasoning with a touch more lemon juice or salt if needed before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh for this Asparagus and Pea Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen peas are a perfect convenience without sacrificing flavor. Just add them at the same stage as you would fresh peas. They also help keep the soup’s sweetness and vibrant color intact.
Is this soup suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based as long as you use vegetable stock and a good quality olive oil. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a clean and fresh soup.
Can I make this Asparagus and Pea Soup Recipe without a blender?
While blending is key to achieving the creamy texture this soup is known for, you could roughly mash the vegetables with a potato masher for a chunkier version. However, it won’t have the same smooth, silky feel but will still taste delicious.
How can I make this soup creamier without cream?
Blending the soup well gives a lovely creamy texture, but you can also add a small peeled and boiled potato or a splash of coconut milk if you’d like extra richness without dairy.
What is the best way to choose asparagus for this soup?
Look for firm, bright green spears with tightly closed tips. Avoid any that look woody or dry. Thinner asparagus tends to be more tender and ideal for soups like this one.
Final Thoughts
This Asparagus and Pea Soup Recipe is a dazzling way to celebrate the fresh flavors of spring and early summer. It’s fresh, bright, and surprisingly easy to make, proving that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again to enjoy a bowl of wholesome deliciousness.
Print
Asparagus and Pea Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and healthy asparagus and pea soup that blends fresh vegetables with zesty lemon for a light, comforting meal. Perfectly smooth and easy to prepare, this soup is a nutritious choice for spring or anytime you crave a fresh veggie boost.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, chopped
- 2 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids & Oils
- 4 cups vegetable stock
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 4-5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
- Add vegetables: Stir in the chopped asparagus and green peas, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they become bright green and slightly tender.
- Simmer: Pour in the vegetable stock, bring the mixture up to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.
- Blend soup: Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a countertop blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
- Season and warm: Return the blended soup to low heat, then stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Warm through without boiling.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or crispy croutons for added texture.
Notes
- Use fresh peas if available for the best flavor, but frozen peas work well too.
- Adjust the lemon juice according to your taste preference for acidity.
- For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of cream or coconut milk before serving.
- This soup can be served hot or chilled as a refreshing cold soup in warmer months.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
