Garden Fresh Spring Soup

Name: Garden Fresh Spring Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup baby spinach; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice and zest of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Garden Fresh Spring Soup during the warmer months when the produce is at its peak. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors create a delightful dish that not only nourishes but also brightens my day. Each ingredient brings something unique to the table, from the peppery greens to the sweet peas, and I find that every spoonful is a celebration of spring. This soup is quick to prepare and is versatile enough to adapt with whatever fresh vegetables I have on hand, making it a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-30T01:31:29.679Z

Making this Garden Fresh Spring Soup is a real joy for me, especially as the weather warms up and my garden comes to life. I experimented with different combinations of vegetables, and what I discovered is that the fresh peas and tender asparagus really shine through. Adding a hint of lemon zest right at the end gives the soup an extra layer of brightness that elevates the whole dish.

What I love most is how adaptable this recipe is. Feel free to swap in your favorite spring veggies or even add a few herbs from the garden. A light touch of fresh basil or dill can transform the flavor profile entirely. It’s this creativity in the kitchen that keeps me coming back to this recipe season after season.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh flavors that highlight spring vegetables
Comforting yet light; perfect for any time of day
Easily customizable to suit your taste or pantry needs

Understanding the Ingredients

The beauty of Garden Fresh Spring Soup lies in its fresh ingredients. Asparagus not only adds a tender crunch to the dish but also infuses it with a slightly nutty flavor, pivotal for a springtime essence. When selecting asparagus, look for firm stalks with closed tips. The peas, whether fresh or frozen, contribute a natural sweetness and vibrant green color that brighten the overall appearance of the soup.

Baby spinach provides not only nutritional value but also a mild, earthy flavor that balances the brighter notes of the other vegetables. It's best to add the spinach towards the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant color and nutrients. If you're looking to make this soup a bit heartier, you could also incorporate Swiss chard or kale, though these greens may require a longer cooking time to become tender.

Perfecting Your Technique

Sautéing the onion and garlic is critical for building the soup's flavor base. Aim for that golden translucence before adding additional ingredients; this process usually takes about 3-5 minutes over medium heat. This initial step helps to release the natural sugars in the onion, creating a lovely depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish. If you find your garlic browning too quickly, simply reduce the heat slightly to prevent bitterness.

When adding the broth, make sure to bring it to a rapid boil. This helps cook the vegetables quickly while retaining their colors and textures. Pay attention to the simmering stage; 15 minutes is typically sufficient for the spinach and peas to become tender without wilting too much. The goal is to maintain a vibrant look while achieving that wonderful al dente finish.

Ingredients

Gather all the fresh ingredients for your soup before starting.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup fresh peas (or frozen)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup baby spinach
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice and zest of 1 lemon

Make sure to choose the freshest vegetables for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a comforting bowl of soup.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

Add Asparagus and Peas

Next, add the asparagus pieces and fresh peas to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combine Broth and Spinach

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and add the baby spinach. Simmer for 15 minutes.

Finish with Lemon

Remove the soup from heat, and stir in the lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoy your warm bowl of soup as is or with some crusty bread.

Pro Tips

For an extra creamy texture, you can blend a part of the soup before serving. Adjust the lemon juice according to your taste preference for a brighter flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is delightful on its own but can be elevated with a few garnishes. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a dollop of yogurt can add a creamy finish that contrasts beautifully with the soup's lightness. For a touch of brightness, consider adding a few fresh herbs like dill or parsley. They lend a refreshing note that complements the lemon.

Pair your spring soup with a warm, crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For added heartiness, serve it alongside a quiche or a savory tart. The flexibility of this dish allows it to transition from a light lunch to a hearty dinner option with just a few tweaks.

Storage and Freezing

If you find yourself with leftovers, they're actually a great asset! Store your Garden Fresh Spring Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it can last for up to three days. The flavors will meld nicely as it sits, making each subsequent bowl even tastier than the last. When reheating, do it over medium heat and consider adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the consistency.

For longer storage, this soup freezes well too. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can typically be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen peas can easily be used in place of fresh ones, and they don't require any cooking adjustments.

→ How long does the soup last in the fridge?

The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs perfectly with a light salad or some fresh crusty bread for dipping.