The first time I tried a cold pea and mint gazpacho, I was skeptical. But after one silky spoonful, I was hooked!
This is my spring-inspired twist on the classic Spanish cold soup—light, vibrant, and perfect for warm weather.
Instead of tomatoes, I blend sweet green peas, fresh mint, and a touch of cucumber into a cool and creamy soup that tastes like a garden in a bowl.
It’s quick to prep, gorgeous to serve, and the perfect appetizer or light lunch when you’re craving something refreshing and a little unexpected.
Imagine a smooth, chilled soup that combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the invigorating essence of mint.
This gazpacho isn’t just a simple recipe; it’s a delightful blend of ingredients that will surprise your taste buds and impress your guests.
Here’s Why You’ll Love My Pea and Mint Gazpacho
If you love the idea of a chilled soup but want something beyond traditional tomato gazpacho, this recipe is for you.
The sweetness of peas and the brightness of mint make for a unique and balanced flavor that’s both cooling and comforting.
The texture is luxuriously smooth, and the ingredients are light and nutrient-rich. It’s vegan-friendly, make-ahead friendly, and super customizable.
Plus, the beautiful green color is a showstopper on any spring or summer table.
Chilled Pea and Mint Delight
This Pea and Mint Gazpacho is the epitome of light and refreshing soups, ideal for the warm spring and summer days.
With its vibrant green color and smooth texture, it’s a feast for the eyes and the palate.
The sweetness of fresh peas harmonizes beautifully with the invigorating nature of mint, creating a delightful experience for those lucky enough to enjoy it.
Served chilled, this dish is an excellent choice for outdoor gatherings or a quick light lunch.
Visual Appeal
Imagine a rustic bowl brimming with this lively green soup, placed on a wooden table that adds a touch of warmth to your dining experience.
The visual presentation is enhanced by garnishing with fresh mint leaves, which not only adds color but also reinforces the refreshing flavor profile.
Surrounding the bowl, you might find fresh peas and sprigs of mint, creating a playful and inviting atmosphere.
This setting is perfect for summer picnics, garden parties, or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home.
Preparation Process
Creating this Pea and Mint Gazpacho is straightforward, making it accessible for anyone looking to whip up a tasty treat.
Start by blending together fresh or frozen peas, vegetable broth, mint leaves, cucumber, red onion, olive oil, and lemon juice until smooth.
This combination brings out the best flavors of the ingredients.
Once blended, taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference, then blend again to ensure the seasoning is well incorporated.
After this, transfer the mixture to a bowl and allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
This chilling process is vital to achieving the crisp, refreshing flavor that characterizes a perfect gazpacho.
Serving Suggestions
When it’s time to serve, ladle the chilled gazpacho into bowls and garnish generously with fresh mint leaves.
This not only adds to the visual appeal but also enhances the aromatic experience as you enjoy each spoonful.
Serve this gazpacho as a starter before grilled chicken, salmon, or a spring pasta dish.
It pairs well with crusty bread, a light green salad, or herby crostini topped with goat cheese or ricotta.
For a picnic or brunch, pour it into small glasses and serve as a shooter with lemon zest or microgreens.
If you want to dress it up for entertaining, top it with a swirl of yogurt, chopped herbs, or crushed pistachios for a bit of texture.
The bright flavors make it a delightful addition to any summer menu, whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a peaceful afternoon at home.
Nutritional Benefits
This light soup is not only delicious but also nutritious, offering a healthy option for those who want to indulge without the guilt.
With only 120 calories per serving, it provides a refreshing way to hydrate while enjoying a burst of flavors.
Additionally, the combination of peas and mint provides a good source of protein and essential vitamins, making it a guilt-free choice for any meal.
This Pea and Mint Gazpacho is a delightful way to embrace fresh produce and seasonal ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating Pea and Mint Gazpacho into your culinary repertoire can elevate your summer dining experience.
Its vibrant color and refreshing taste create a perfect harmony that celebrates the season.
Whether shared with friends or relished in solitude, this chilled soup promises to invigorate and refresh.
So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor this delightful dish that embodies the spirit of summer!
Tips for the Best Pea and Mint Gazpacho
Use high-quality, sweet peas—either fresh if in season or frozen (which work great year-round).
Fresh mint is key, so avoid dried. If you want the soup ultra-smooth, strain it through a fine mesh sieve after blending.
Chill for at least one hour before serving so the flavors have time to meld and the soup is refreshingly cold.
Add lemon juice gradually to balance the sweetness of the peas with the right amount of acidity.
Pea and Mint Gazpacho – A Cool, Refreshing Spring Soup
Course: Appetizer or Light LunchCuisine: Spanish-inspired, Spring SeasonalDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes5
minutes170
kcalThis Pea and Mint Gazpacho is a light and refreshing soup that’s perfect for warm spring and summer days. It features a vibrant green color and a smooth texture, with the sweetness of peas perfectly complemented by fresh mint.
Ingredients
2 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
1 small cucumber, peeled and chopped
One-fourth cup fresh mint leaves, packed
1 green onion or small shallot, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
One-half teaspoon salt
One-fourth teaspoon black pepper
1 and one-half cups cold vegetable broth or water
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional: 2 tablespoons plain yogurt or coconut cream for garnish
Optional: lemon zest or chopped pistachios for garnish
Directions
- Prep the Peas:
- If using frozen peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to cool. Drain well.
- Blend the Soup:
- In a blender, combine the peas, chopped cucumber, mint, green onion or shallot, lemon juice, salt, pepper, olive oil, and vegetable broth.
- Adjust Texture:
- Blend on high until completely smooth. For a thinner soup, add more broth or water one tablespoon at a time. For ultra-smooth texture, strain through a fine mesh sieve.
- Chill:
- Pour the soup into a container, cover, and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
- Serve:
- Stir before serving. Pour into bowls or glasses and garnish with a swirl of yogurt or coconut cream, lemon zest, mint leaves, or chopped pistachios if desired.
Notes
- To make it a heartier lunch, serve it with a slice of avocado toast or a chickpea salad sandwich.
- If your peas are on the starchy side, add a few cucumber slices or more lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
- For a vegan version, skip dairy yogurt or replace with coconut yogurt.
- This soup also works beautifully served in shot glasses at spring garden parties or baby showers!
Storage and Warming of Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This soup is best served chilled and should not be reheated.
If it thickens in the fridge, stir in a splash of cold water or broth before serving. Stir well before each use to redistribute ingredients.