Asparagus and Pea Soup

Name: Asparagus and Pea Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb asparagus, trimmed and chopped; 2 cups fresh or frozen peas; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Clean Eats

I love how refreshing and vibrant this Asparagus and Pea Soup is! The combination of tender asparagus and sweet peas creates a delightful, silky texture that is perfect for a light meal or appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up this delicious soup in under 30 minutes. Plus, the beautiful green color is a feast for the eyes as well. This recipe is one of my go-to favorites, especially during the spring when asparagus is in season.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-29T23:21:28.638Z

When I first experimented with making soup from fresh vegetables, it was surprisingly simple and rewarding. I decided to pair asparagus and peas, both of which have bright flavors that shine with minimal cooking. As the soup simmered, I added a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the freshness. It's a little trick that truly elevates the taste.

In trying different textures, I found that blending the soup until completely smooth gives it a luxurious feel. Topped with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of cracked pepper, this soup becomes a sophisticated dish that's perfect for any occasion!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, fresh flavors that encapsulate spring
Smooth, creamy texture without the heaviness
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding Your Ingredients

The star ingredients of this soup are obviously the asparagus and peas, both of which offer vibrant flavors that truly shine in this dish. Asparagus not only lends a unique earthy flavor but also adds a satisfying crunch when sautéed just right. When selecting asparagus, look for firm, bright green stalks with tightly closed tips. If you're using frozen peas, they work beautifully here, maintaining their sweetness and vibrant color even after cooking.

The vegetables you choose can deeply influence the overall taste of the soup. Onions provide a sweet base, while garlic adds depth with its aromatic punch. Sautéing these ingredients until they're translucent ensures that they release their flavors fully before the other components are added. Remember, it’s crucial to use a good quality vegetable broth, as it forms the backbone of the soup's flavor. You can even make your own broth ahead of time to customize it to your liking!

Blending for Texture

Achieving the perfect texture is vital when making soups, and blending techniques play a significant role here. For the smoothest finish, using an immersion blender is highly effective as it allows you to puree the soup directly in the pot, minimizing mess. If you prefer a bit of texture, reserve a handful of peas or asparagus before blending to stir in afterward for that perfect bite. Just be cautious with the speed; blend on low to avoid splashing hot soup.

If you don’t have an immersion blender, a regular blender works just fine, but remember to let the soup cool slightly beforehand. Fill the blender only halfway to avoid any pressure buildup. Always start on a low setting to gradually pull the soup into the blades. This step is essential to avoid a hot soup explosion which can create quite a mess and a potential hazard in the kitchen!

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This Asparagus and Pea Soup is delightful when served hot, but it can also stand up to some creative pairings to elevate your meal. Consider adding a dollop of crème fraîche for a creamy finish or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese for saltiness and texture. Serve alongside crusty bread for dipping or a fresh salad to round out the meal. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves, which beautifully complement the soup’s green flavors and add a refreshing note.

If you have leftovers, store the soup in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth to thin if necessary. This soup also freezes well—portion it into freezer-safe containers for a quick meal later on. When reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before gently heating it on the stove.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious soup, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients for Asparagus and Pea Soup

1 lb asparagus, trimmed and chopped
2 cups fresh or frozen peas
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a delightful soup!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Cook the Asparagus and Peas

Add the chopped asparagus to the pot and sauté for 5 minutes. Then, add the peas and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.

Season and Serve

Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and vibrant Asparagus and Pea Soup!

Pro Tips

For an added touch of flavor, try adding a dollop of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese when serving. If using frozen peas, they will cook quickly, so adjust your cooking time as needed.

Ingredient Adaptations

If you're looking to switch things up, this soup is quite versatile. You could add spinach or kale for added greens and nutrition. Both vegetables will blend seamlessly, enhancing the color and boosting the nutrient profile without overpowering the original flavors. If asparagus is out of season, try substituting with green beans or even zucchini for a slightly different but equally appealing taste.

For a creamier texture, consider incorporating a splash of coconut milk or a small handful of cashews soaked in water and blended until smooth. This adds a velvety richness that complements the fresh vegetables beautifully, giving the soup a slightly tropical twist that pairs well with the lemon.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your soup turns out a bit bland after seasoning, consider tweaking it with additional lemon juice, a splash of vinegar, or even a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick. Taste as you go! Remember, seasoning should be adjusted after blending, as the flavors will meld together beautifully but may need a final touch to stand out.

Overcooking asparagus can lead to a mushy texture and a loss of vibrant color. When sautéing, aim for a bright green with just a bite to it—this usually means no more than five to seven minutes on medium heat. Keeping an eye on the vegetables at this stage ensures you get that perfect blend of tenderness paired with a fresh crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?

While fresh asparagus gives the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen if that's what you have on hand. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How can I make this soup dairy-free?

This soup is naturally dairy-free. Just skip any cream or cheese toppings, or use a plant-based alternative.

→ Can I prepare the soup in advance?

Yes, the soup can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just reheat before serving, and add the lemon juice to brighten the flavor right before you serve.

→ What other herbs would work well in this soup?

Fresh dill or basil would be a wonderful addition, enhancing the flavors even further. Experiment to find your favorite combinations!