Save Embrace the vibrant flavors of European cuisine with this spring-inspired Courgette, Pea and Pesto Soup. Brimming with fresh courgettes and sweet peas, this dish offers a light yet deeply satisfying meal that perfectly celebrates the arrival of the season.
Save With a preparation time of just 15 minutes, this recipe is as practical as it is delicious. The combination of simple pantry staples like onions and garlic with the aromatic punch of basil pesto creates a sophisticated flavor profile that tastes like it took hours to develop.
Ingredients
- Vegetables
- 2 medium courgettes (zucchini), diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 200 g (1 1/3 cups) frozen or fresh peas
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- Liquids
- 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable stock
- Herbs & Seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Pesto
- 4 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade; vegetarian if needed)
- To Serve (Optional)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Crusty bread
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened but not browned.
- Step 2
- Add the diced potato and courgette, stir well, and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Step 3
- Pour in the vegetable stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, until the potato is tender.
- Step 4
- Add the peas and simmer for a further 5 minutes.
- Step 5
- Remove from heat. Use an immersion blender (or blender in batches) to blend the soup until smooth.
- Step 6
- Stir in 3 tablespoons of pesto, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 7
- Ladle into bowls, swirl in the remaining pesto, and garnish with fresh basil. Serve hot with crusty bread if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For this recipe, you will need a large saucepan, a chopping board and knife, an immersion blender or countertop blender, and a ladle. To achieve a perfectly smooth consistency, ensure that the potatoes are fully softened before blending.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To make this soup vegan, ensure you use a vegan-certified pesto. For extra creaminess, you can add a splash of cream or coconut milk before the blending stage. You can also swap the peas for broad beans for a tasty seasonal variation.
Serviervorschläge
While excellent served hot with a side of rustic crusty bread, this soup is also delicious when served chilled during the summer months. Garnish each bowl with fresh basil and an extra swirl of pesto to enhance the herbal aroma.
Save This Courgette, Pea and Pesto Soup is a versatile addition to any recipe collection. Its ease of preparation and vibrant, fresh flavors make it a reliable choice for any occasion, bringing a true taste of spring to your table.
Your Questions Answered
- → Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely. Simply use a vegan pesto (avoiding Parmesan and pine nuts) or make your own with nutritional yeast, basil, olive oil, and nuts like cashews or walnuts. Skip any optional cream toppings.
- → Can I serve this soup cold?
Yes, this works beautifully as a chilled summer soup. Blend thoroughly, stir in the pesto, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to chill completely. The flavours often develop more depth when served cold.
- → What can I use instead of pesto?
Try a dollop of crème fraîche with chopped fresh herbs, a swirl of olive oil with grated lemon zest, or sautéed greens like spinach blended through. Each creates a different but equally delicious finish.
- → How long does this soup keep in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The pesto is best added just before serving to maintain its vibrant colour and fresh flavour. Reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
Freeze without the pesto for up to 3 months. Cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers leaving some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge, reheat, then swirl in fresh pesto before serving.
- → Why add potato to this soup?
The potato acts as a natural thickener, adding body and creaminess without dairy. Its neutral flavour lets the courgette and peas shine while creating a velvety texture when blended.