Cream of Pea and Mint Soup with Spring Veggie Salad

Welcome to our fresh and vibrant recipe for Cream of Pea and Mint Soup paired with a colorful Spring Veggie Salad. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or a starter at your next dinner gathering, highlighting the flavors of early spring.

Ingredients for the Cream of Pea and Mint Soup

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for sautéing

Ingredients for the Spring Veggie Salad

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1 bunch radishes, sliced
  • 1/2 cup snap peas
  • Fresh herbs (parsley, basil)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation of the Soup

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the peas and cook for a few minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

Remove the pot from heat. Add the fresh mint leaves and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and heat through. Serve hot, garnished with a sprig of mint if desired.

Preparation of the Spring Veggie Salad

In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, radishes, and snap peas. Chop the fresh herbs and add them to the salad. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to combine. Chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the warm pea and mint soup alongside the crisp spring veggie salad for a refreshing and nutritious meal. This combination is perfect for celebrating the flavors of spring and can be easily adapted for vegetarian or vegan diets by using coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Enjoy Your Spring Feast!

With its bright flavors and fresh ingredients, this Cream of Pea and Mint Soup with Spring Veggie Salad is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish with friends and family!