Selecting Seasonal Ingredients

Visit local farmers' markets or your grocery store's seasonal aisle to choose the freshest vegetables. Spring favorites include asparagus, peas, and carrots.

Herbs and Spices for Flavor

Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and tarragon to add a layer of flavor to your soups. Remember, adding them towards the end of cooking preserves their fragrance and potency.

Balancing Meals with Soups

Consider nutritional balance when pairing soups with side dishes. A hearty vegetable soup goes well with a light, protein-rich salad, providing a fulfilling yet balanced meal.

Spring Pea and Mint Soup

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh peas

1 small onion, chopped, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp olive oil or butter

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (garnish)

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup cream (optional)

Directions:

In a large pot, melt olive oil or butter over medium heat.

Add onions and garlic and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.

Add peas and broth, bring to a boil.

Reduce heat and simmer until peas are tender, about 10 minutes.

Blend the soup until smooth.

Season with salt and pepper, stir in cream if using.

Serve hot with a garnish of fresh mint leaves.