Making this Spring Pea and Mint Soup is incredibly straightforward and quick, perfect for a light lunch or a simple starter. Follow these easy steps to create your own bowl of springtime delight:

1. Sauté the Onion: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent browning. Sautéing the onion first is crucial to mellow its raw flavour and create a flavourful base for the soup. Don’t rush this step – gently cooking the onion until soft and sweet is key.
2. Add the Peas and Broth: Once the onions are softened, add the fresh or frozen peas and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
3. Simmer Until Peas are Tender: Simmer gently for about 5-10 minutes if using fresh peas, or 3-5 minutes if using frozen peas, or until the peas are tender and bright green. Be careful not to overcook the peas, as they can lose their vibrant colour and become mushy. We want them just cooked through for the best texture and flavour. Overcooking can also diminish the fresh sweetness of the peas.
4. Add the Mint: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the fresh mint leaves. Let the mint steep in the hot soup for a few minutes (about 2-3 minutes) to infuse its flavour. The heat of the soup will gently release the essential oils from the mint, creating that signature refreshing aroma and taste. Don’t add the mint while the soup is simmering, as prolonged heat can make the mint taste bitter.
5. Blend Until Smooth: Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it is completely smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully ladle the hot soup into a regular blender, working in batches, and blend until smooth. Be sure to vent the blender lid slightly to allow steam to escape and prevent pressure build-up. Blend until you achieve a velvety smooth consistency, ensuring no lumps remain. The blending step is what transforms the simple ingredients into a luxurious, creamy soup.
6. Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a little salt and pepper, then taste and adjust as needed. Remember that seasoning is crucial to bring out the flavours of all the ingredients. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at this stage if you like a touch of acidity to brighten the soup.
7. Serve Hot or Cold: Serve the soup immediately while hot, or chill it in the refrigerator to serve cold later. Garnish with a swirl of cream or crème fraîche (if using), a sprig of fresh mint, or a drizzle of olive oil. This soup is delicious served both ways, making it perfect for any season or occasion.