Zuppa di Piselli: A Cozy Italian Pea Soup Recipe
Zuppa di Piselli
Equipment
- Large pot, blender or immersion blender, wooden spoon, measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen or fresh green peas
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium potato peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs like parsley or mint for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the diced potato to the pot and stir well. Cook for about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the Peas:
- Once boiling, add the peas. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Blend the Soup:
- Remove the pot from heat. Using a blender or an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you like a chunkier texture, you can blend only half and leave the rest as is.
- Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it stand for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
If you’re looking for a delicious, warming dish that’s simple to make, let me show you how I make Zuppa di Piselli, or Italian Pea Soup. This comforting soup is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a starter or as a light main course, and it’s perfect for using up pantry staples. From my own personal experience, this soup always warms the heart, making it a go-to recipe for chilly evenings. Let’s dive into the details.
Notes on What to Expect
When you make Zuppa di Piselli, expect a vibrant green soup with a fresh and comforting flavor profile. The peas provide natural sweetness, while the garlic and onion add depth. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also adaptable to suit various tastes and dietary needs, making it a staple for many.
Quick Meal Facts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Time to Stand: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Ease of Cooking: Easy
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 200 calories
- Cost of Ingredients: $10 – $15
- Cuisine: Italian
- Course: Soup
- Equipment Needed: Large pot, blender or immersion blender, wooden spoon, measuring cups and spoons
Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making Zuppa di Piselli here
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen or fresh green peas
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or mint) for garnish
Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making Zuppa di Piselli here
Method
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the diced potato to the pot and stir well. Cook for about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the Peas:
- Once boiling, add the peas. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Blend the Soup:
- Remove the pot from heat. Using a blender or an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you like a chunkier texture, you can blend only half and leave the rest as is.
- Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it stand for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Variations
- Creamy Version: For a richer soup, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk after blending.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked bacon, ham, or a handful of cooked lentils for added protein.
- Spice it Up: Incorporate spices like cumin or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Herb Alternatives: Experiment with different herbs like basil or dill, based on personal preference.
Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making Zuppa di Piselli here
Tips and Substitutions
- Dietary Needs: To make this dish vegan, ensure you use vegetable broth. For a gluten-free option, verify that your broth is certified gluten-free.
- Frozen Peas: Using frozen peas saves time and still gives you a fresh taste. Just add them directly to the pot without thawing.
- Storage: Zuppa di Piselli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It also freezes well, so make a double batch!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~200
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
Troubleshooting Tips
- Too Thick? If the soup is too thick, simply add a bit more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Flavor Not Intense Enough? Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Lumps in Soup: If you notice lumps after blending, make sure to blend for a longer time or pass it through a sieve for a smoother texture.
From my own personal experience, serving this soup with crusty bread elevates the meal, turning it into a cozy dining experience. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! Enjoy this delightful Italian classic that’s sure to warm both your body and soul.
Hi!
I’m Mike, the creator of Forum Foodies. In my own personal experience, understanding ingredients is key to great cooking.
Forum Foodies offers guides on various ingredients, from staples to exotic finds. Join our community, share your experiences, and learn from fellow food lovers.
Have questions or suggestions? Email me at info@forumfoodies.com. Let’s embark on this delicious adventure together.
Happy cooking.
Mike/