This Pea and Mint Soup is a British comfort food classic that can be enjoyed both warm and cold, making it a year-round favorite. Naturally light, vibrant, and sweet from tender baby peas, it’s refreshingly enhanced with fresh mint. Ideal as a starter or a light lunch, this simple soup comes together in just 25 minutes using frozen peas and a few pantry staples.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• ½ tablespoon butter

• 1 large shallot, peeled and minced

• 2 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock

• 10 fresh mint leaves

• 1 lb (500g) frozen baby peas (petite peas)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. In a medium pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced shallot and cook for about 1 minute until softened.

2. Add the stock and mint leaves to the pot. Bring to a boil.

3. Add the frozen peas and return to a boil. Simmer for about 4 minutes or until the peas are tender.

4. Remove from heat and take out the mint leaves. Let the soup cool slightly.

5. Transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until very smooth.

6. For a cold version, chill the soup in the refrigerator until ready to serve. For a warm version, reheat gently in the pot.

Nutrients (Per serving, serves 4)

• Calories: 154

• Fat: 3g

• Saturated Fat: 1g

• Cholesterol: 7mg

• Sodium: 191mg

• Potassium: 437mg

• Carbohydrates: 22g

• Fiber: 6g

• Sugar: 8g

• Protein: 9g

• Vitamin A: 1020 IU (20%)

• Vitamin C: 46.9mg (57%)

• Calcium: 38mg (4%)

• Iron: 2.1mg (12%)

A British Classic with Universal Appeal

Rooted in British cuisine, Pea and Mint Soup has long been celebrated for its balance of comfort and freshness. Historically served during spring and summer, it captures the flavors of the season when garden peas are at their sweetest and mint is abundant. In more recent years, the dish has evolved from a seasonal tradition to a year-round go-to, thanks to the availability of high-quality frozen peas and the enduring popularity of clean, vegetable-forward meals.

Across the UK, it’s found in pubs, cafes, and fine-dining establishments alike, often served with a swirl of cream or a garnish of pea shoots. Its universal appeal lies in the combination of tender peas and mint, which not only enhances the flavor but also introduces a cooling contrast that keeps the soup from feeling too heavy or monotonous.

A Perfect Marriage of Flavors

The pairing of peas and mint is one of nature’s most harmonious culinary combinations. The sweetness of baby peas, especially when lightly simmered and blended to a velvety texture, pairs beautifully with the cool, slightly spicy note of fresh mint leaves. The result is a soup that tastes both comforting and invigorating—a duality that makes it perfect for transitioning between seasons.

The flavor is delicate but distinctive. A well-balanced Pea and Mint Soup doesn’t overwhelm the palate but offers just enough complexity to keep every spoonful interesting. A touch of butter brings richness, while the shallot adds a subtle depth that rounds out the brightness of the peas and mint.

Quick and Effortless to Prepare

One of the biggest draws of Pea and Mint Soup is its ease of preparation. From start to finish, it takes around 25 minutes and requires just one pot and a blender. This simplicity makes it an excellent choice for cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros looking for a no-fuss meal.

The process involves gently sautéing shallots in butter, adding broth and mint, then briefly cooking the peas until tender. A quick blend is all it takes to achieve the smooth, luscious texture that defines this dish. Because the peas cook so quickly, their fresh flavor and vibrant color are preserved, ensuring the soup looks as good as it tastes.

This makes it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights, impromptu lunches, or anytime you want something wholesome and homemade with minimal cleanup.

A Nutrient-Rich and Low-Calorie Option

Despite its creamy texture and rich taste, this soup is surprisingly light and packed with nutrients. With just 154 calories per serving, it provides a satisfying meal without feeling heavy. The peas deliver plant-based protein and fiber, supporting satiety and digestive health, while being naturally low in fat.

Peas are also a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and iron. Mint, while used in smaller amounts, contributes antioxidants and has long been valued for its digestive benefits.

For those watching sodium or calories, using low-sodium broth and skipping additional cream or cheese garnishes makes this an even more health-conscious choice. It’s vegetarian by default and can easily be made vegan by substituting olive oil for butter and using vegetable broth.

Customizable for Any Season or Occasion

This soup’s versatility makes it a year-round favorite. Served hot, it’s soothing and satisfying on chilly days, offering a lighter alternative to heavier cream-based soups. Served cold, it becomes a refreshing appetizer or light main course in warmer months, especially when paired with crusty bread or a seasonal salad.

The flavor can also be adjusted to suit your taste. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness, a swirl of cream for indulgence, or a pinch of chili flakes for subtle heat. Garnishes like crème fraîche, Greek yogurt, or fresh pea shoots can elevate the presentation, making it dinner-party ready.

For a heartier meal, you can pair the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich, a quinoa salad, or even poached eggs on toast. Its clean base complements many sides without overpowering them.

A Great Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly Meal

Pea and Mint Soup is an excellent make-ahead option. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be reheated gently on the stove without losing its flavor or texture. In fact, allowing the soup to sit overnight often enhances its flavor as the mint infuses further into the base.

It’s also freezer-friendly. Make a large batch and freeze in individual portions for a quick lunch or light dinner whenever needed. Just be sure to cool it fully before freezing, and defrost overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

This convenience makes it a favorite for meal prepping, especially among those looking to include more vegetables and plant-based meals into their weekly rotation.

An Elegant Starter or Light Main Course

Whether served as a starter for a multi-course meal or as a light main, Pea and Mint Soup brings elegance to the table. Its smooth, vivid green appearance and subtle aroma of mint make it appealing both visually and aromatically. It’s equally at home in a rustic bowl or a fine porcelain cup, making it a favorite of both home cooks and chefs.

For entertaining, it’s a perfect first course. Serve it in small portions with artisan bread or gourmet crackers for a sophisticated introduction to a spring or summer menu. Add a drizzle of herbed oil or a few drops of truffle oil to impress guests and elevate the flavor even further.

Conclusion

Pea and Mint Soup is a perfect example of how simplicity and elegance can coexist in the kitchen. It takes just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes to prepare, yet the result is a bowl full of color, flavor, and comfort. With its creamy texture, sweet peas, and refreshing mint, it offers a unique blend of lightness and richness that makes it suitable for any season.

From casual lunches to elegant dinners, warm gatherings to sunny afternoons, this soup adapts to your needs with grace. It’s a recipe that reminds us that sometimes the best meals are the simplest ones, crafted from ingredients you likely already have on hand. Add Pea and Mint Soup to your regular rotation, and enjoy a timeless dish that’s as nutritious as it is delightful.