If you are searching for a comforting and vibrant springtime classic, this Pea Soup from Frozen Peas Recipe is an absolute must-try. With its bright green hue, velvety texture, and layers of subtle smoky and herbal flavors, this soup transforms simple frozen peas into a stunning bowl of cozy goodness. It’s incredibly easy to make, packed with fresh ingredients that come together quickly, and irresistible when served warm on a chilly day or as a light lunch. I love how this recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the peas while adding a nuanced depth that makes every spoonful feel like a warm hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients, each essential in creating the rich, creamy, and flavorful base that defines this soup. From aromatic vegetables to gently spiced seasonings, every item plays a role in layering both taste and texture.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds a rich, silky foundation for sautéing the veggies.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps balance the butter’s richness and adds a fruity note.
- Large onion, chopped: Brings a natural sweetness and depth to the soup.
- Celery, chopped (1 cup): Offers a subtle crunch and herbal undertone.
- Garlic cloves (4, crushed and chopped): Provides an aromatic punch that wakes up the palate.
- Frozen peas (7 cups): The star ingredient, delivering vibrant color and fresh sweetness.
- Chicken broth (4 cups, plus extra if needed): Gives the soup liquid body and savory richness.
- Thyme (1/4 teaspoon): Adds gentle herbal notes that complement the peas.
- Chipotle chili powder (1/4 teaspoon): Offers a whisper of smoky heat without overpowering.
- Smoked paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the smokiness and adds depth to the flavor profile.
- Salt (1 & 1/2 teaspoons, adjust to taste): Elevates all the flavors perfectly.
- Pepper (to taste): Adds subtle warmth and balance.
- Cream (3/4 cup): Brings luscious creaminess and smooth finish to the soup.
How to Make Pea Soup from Frozen Peas Recipe
Step 1: Melt Butter and Heat Olive Oil
Start by melting the butter in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Once melted, pour in the olive oil. This combination creates a rich, flavorful base that enhances the vegetables’ natural sweetness and prevents sticking while sautéing.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Celery
Add the chopped onion and celery to the buttery oil. Cook them gently for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the onions become translucent and tender. This slow cooking releases their sugars and builds a rich foundation for the soup’s flavor.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in the crushed and chopped garlic, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Avoid letting it brown; you want the garlic’s sharpness to linger without bitterness.
Step 4: Incorporate the Frozen Peas
Pour in the frozen peas right from the bag. Because they are frozen, they help cool the pot down slightly and keep the legumes vibrant and bright green throughout the cooking process.
Step 5: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, then sprinkle the thyme, chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the top. Stir everything and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Covering the pot speeds this part up, but watch carefully to prevent any spills.
Step 6: Simmer Until Soft
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 5 minutes until the onions and celery are completely soft. This step ensures all flavors meld beautifully and develop a velvety softness.
Step 7: Puree the Soup
Turn off the heat. Using an immersion blender right in the pot, puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have one, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, covering the spout with a towel to release steam safely. The result will be luxuriously smooth, surpassing any chunky version.
Step 8: Adjust Consistency and Add Cream
If the soup looks too thick, add the reserved cup of chicken broth until it reaches your preferred consistency. Next, stir in the cream and warm everything gently on the stove just until heated through. This final touch enriches the soup’s texture and flavor.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Dish the soup into bowls and prepare to impress your guests (or just yourself) with this simple yet stunning creation. For extra delight, pair it with crusty French bread for dipping into the smooth, savory goodness.
How to Serve Pea Soup from Frozen Peas Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes enhances both presentation and flavor. Fresh herbs like mint or parsley add a burst of color and brightness, while a swirl of cream or a drizzle of good olive oil on top adds an inviting richness. A sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or toasted pine nuts can introduce delightful texture contrasts.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Crusty French bread or warm garlic knots give a satisfying crunch and help scoop every spoonful. For a fresh side, a simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette balances the soup’s creaminess. Light cheese and charcuterie boards can also elevate your serving for a more elegant meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the soup in individual bread bowls to add a rustic charm. For dinner parties, ladle the soup into petite cups as a delightful starter. Another fun idea is to garnish with a dollop of crème fraîche and edible flowers during spring celebrations for a visually stunning bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Re-stir well before reheating since the cream can separate slightly.
Freezing
This pea soup freezes beautifully, making it perfect for batch cooking. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space on top for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, move it to the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. You may need to add a little extra broth or cream to loosen the texture and recapture that fresh-from-the-pot creaminess. Avoid high heat or microwave reheating that can cause separation.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! Substituting vegetable broth works perfectly for vegetarians or if you want a lighter soup. It will still give great flavor without compromising the dish’s richness.
Do I have to use frozen peas, or can I use fresh ones?
Frozen peas are preferred in this recipe because they are picked and frozen at peak freshness, ensuring sweetness and vibrant color year-round. Fresh peas can be used when in season, but they require slightly longer cooking.
Is the soup suitable for freezing with cream added?
While you can freeze the soup with cream, it’s often best to add cream after reheating for the best texture. Cream can sometimes separate during freezing and thawing.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, simply swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, use olive oil exclusively, and select vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Use coconut cream or a nut-based cream alternative to finish for a lovely vegan twist.
How spicy is this pea soup with chipotle and smoked paprika?
The chipotle and smoked paprika add just a subtle smoky warmth without overwhelming heat. You can always adjust the amounts to suit your heat preference or omit the chipotle if you want a milder flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Pea Soup from Frozen Peas Recipe is one of those delightful dishes that comes together quickly yet feels incredibly special, both in flavor and comforting satisfaction. I hope you give it a try and discover how effortless it is to turn simple frozen peas into something truly memorable. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or serving guests seeking a bright and elegant starter, this soup is sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.
