Here we are, already setting the clocks ahead and getting ready for Spring! We’ve been having unusually sunny weather here in Vancouver for most of February and then suddenly got snow this week, and now the sun is back, trying to make an appearance! Strange strange strange. Regardless of the weather, I decided to make a light, refreshing and healthy pea soup. Anything to do with peas just tastes like Spring to me- the flavour is so fresh! This made a pretty big batch, but I’ll definitely be freezing it in single portions for whenever I need a quick bite! Hey! I just thought of something- what a great dish for St. Patrick’s day! Eat a nice healthy pea soup and then go and drink pint after pint of green beer! :p
This week I will be graduating from culinary school with a Certificate in Baking & Pastry Arts (hopefully! If I pass all my exams 
). This consisted of me taking 3 months of culinary courses and 3 months of baking & pastry courses. It has been a big learning experience for me and there is much that I can take from traditional French cooking and pastry, and apply to what I think modern food should be- tasty and nourishing for your body, mind, and soul. From here, I will be finishing my last few courses as well as my case studies in becoming a Registered Holistic Nutritionist. I’ve made some great friends over the last few months, and it’s going to be strange not going to school. I can’t say I’ll miss the 4:45am mornings, though! Onwards and upwards…..
Spring Pea Soup
- 1 kg package frozen peas
- 2 cups vegetable stock
- 1 large shallot, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- zest of 1 lemon
- juice of 1/2 lemon (I might use an entire lemon next time- I liked tasting the citrus!)
- 1 tsp dried basil (I didn’t have fresh in my garden!)
- 1 tsp dried mint (same here!)
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
Heat a large pot over medium heat with 1-2 tbsp olive oil. Add shallot and garlic and cook a couple of minutes, until softened. Add frozen peas, vegetable stock, herbs, salt and pepper, lemon zest and juice. Cover and bring to a simmer. Puree in a blender. Return to pot and heat until hot. Garnish the soup with a small lemon wedge, chives, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Enjoy!
* If you wish to make this soup a bit richer, simply add a dollop of creme fraiche, yogurt, or some heavy cream.
This soup is so pretty, and perfect for St. Patrick’s Day!
(P.S. Congratulations on graduating culinary school this week!!)
Congratulations on graduating culinary school! I’ve been counting the days until Spring and this soup looks like one it takes advantage of some of the best flavors of the season. Thanks for the recipe.
That just looks amazing! And congrats on graduating! The photos are super’b!
Oh I’m so making this! Bookmarked. Thank you!
A georgous & spectaculair looking pea soup!!
I love that you added pimentón!!!
MMMMM,…good luck with all of your exams, Koko!
Wow, what a nice soup…love the color and the herbs in it sounds wonderful…
Thank you all!
good thinking! I have split pea soup cooking away in my slow cooker today! This looks yummy, and Congrats on your courses =) I’m sure you will do well in all of your final exams! xox lou
Thanks Koko for sharing this recipe. The presentation is fabulous.
Congratulations Koko!
I want to make it! IT makes me hungry to look at it.
Wow – I can’t believe you’ve achieved so much in such a short amount of time. Sounds like congrats are certainly in order! Best of luck continuing to pursue your goals. Your soup looks healthy and delicious — just what I’d expect and want from a nutritionist’s recipe.
Look! The lemon slice looks like the sinking Titanic! The soup looks lovely and big congrats about graduating culinary school!
It seems so tasty!