Pea cream soup with whole grain croutons

Pea cream soup with whole grain croutons

Pea cream soup is a dish that evokes not only the joy of taste but also pleasant memories, thanks to its fine texture and vibrant color. This simple and quick recipe proves to be perfect for cool days, as well as for moments when we need a light and nutritious meal. With just a few accessible ingredients, I will show you how to transform simple frozen peas into a delicacy.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 leek (white part)
- 500 g frozen peas
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary
- 4 slices of whole grain bread
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Water

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the leek well under running water. Slice the white part of the leek into thin rounds, being careful to remove the green leaves, as they are not used in this recipe.

2. Sautéing the leek: In a medium pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the leek rounds and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and slightly soft. This step will add a sweet and pleasant aroma to your soup.

3. Adding the peas: Once the leek is sautéed, add the frozen peas on top. Gently stir to combine the flavors. Place the sprig of rosemary in the pot and add enough water to cover the peas (about 1 liter should be sufficient). Let it boil for 10-15 minutes, according to the instructions on the pea package.

4. Preparing the whole grain croutons: While the soup is boiling, prepare the croutons. Cut the 4 slices of whole grain bread into cubes. In a pan, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the bread cubes and fry them, stirring occasionally, until they become golden and crispy. These will add a delicious texture to your soup.

5. Transforming the soup into cream: Once the peas are well cooked, remove the sprig of rosemary. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until it becomes a smooth cream. If it is too thick, you can add a little more water or vegetable broth to achieve the desired consistency.

6. Seasoning the soup: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. You can also add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for extra flavor.

7. Serving: Serve the pea cream soup warm, adding the crispy croutons on top. You can garnish with a few fresh rosemary leaves or a drizzle of cream if you want an even richer taste.

My tip for a perfect result: Make sure the peas are of good quality, as this will influence the final flavor of the soup. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as basil or mint, to add a personal touch.

Nutritional benefits: Pea cream soup is rich in plant-based proteins, fiber, and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal. Peas contain antioxidants and are a good source of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen? Yes, but you will need to boil them longer.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Carrots and potatoes pair very well and add extra sweetness.
- How can I store the soup? It keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days or can be frozen.

This pea cream soup with whole grain croutons is not only a simple recipe but also a wonderful way to enjoy a healthy and tasty dish. Enjoy your meal!