Creamy Spring Pea Mint (Printable)
Silky blend of sweet peas, fresh mint, and tangy crème fraîche perfect for spring dining.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 4 cups fresh or frozen green peas
→ Liquids
05 - 3 cups vegetable broth
06 - 1 cup whole milk
07 - 1/4 cup crème fraîche (plus more for garnish)
→ Herbs & Seasonings
08 - 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, packed
09 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
→ Garnish
10 - Extra crème fraîche
11 - Fresh mint leaves
12 - Freshly ground black pepper
# Directions:
01 - Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened but not browned.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
03 - Add peas to the pan and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
04 - Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 8–10 minutes until peas are completely tender.
05 - Remove from heat. Stir in fresh mint leaves and let stand for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
06 - Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until completely smooth and silky. Alternatively, blend in batches in a countertop blender.
07 - Return soup to pan if removed. Stir in milk and crème fraîche. Gently reheat over low heat without boiling. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
08 - Ladle soup into bowls. Create a swirl of extra crème fraîche on top and garnish with fresh mint leaves and a grind of black pepper.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The combination of sweet peas and bright mint creates this incredible fresh flavor that makes you feel like spring has officially arrived, even if the weather disagrees
- It comes together in under 30 minutes but looks and tastes like something from a fancy restaurant, making it perfect for last-minute dinner guests
02 -
- The soup's gorgeous bright green color will fade to a more muted olive tone over time, which is completely natural and doesn't affect the flavor, but it's worth making just before serving if presentation matters
- Do not boil the soup after adding the dairy, as high heat will cause the milk and crème fraîche to separate and ruin that silky texture you worked so hard to achieve
03 -
- Reserve a small handful of the freshest peas before simmering and blanch them separately, then use them as a garnish for textural contrast and visual appeal
- If you only have regular cream instead of crème fraîche, add a teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to achieve that same tangy brightness