Italian Pea Soup
A hearty Italian pea soup with garlic, tomatoes, and fresh herbs, perfect for cozy meals. Delicious served with pasta shells for a comforting dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onions and minced garlic in oil until translucent.
- Add chopped celery and saute until tender.
- Add pea juice, crushed peeled tomatoes, oregano, garlic powder, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add peas to the soup and cook until heated through.
- Serve hot with cooked pasta shells.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth instead of water when simmering the soup. Fresh herbs like basil can be substituted with dry herbs, but use them sparingly as they are more potent. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend part of the soup before adding the peas. This soup pairs beautifully with Crostini (Appetizers) for a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Italian Pea Soup hot, garnished with fresh basil for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Consider adding cooked pasta shells directly to the soup for a heartier option. This dish is a great addition to any Italian recipes collection.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture of the peas.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Pea Soup contains roughly 477 calories, with 16g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (214% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (171% of the Daily Value), and calcium (126% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 704mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen peas instead of canned?
Yes, frozen peas work well in this recipe. Just add them directly to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they heat through without becoming mushy.
What can I substitute for crushed red pepper?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the crushed red pepper or replace it with a pinch of paprika for a subtle warmth. Adjust to your taste preference.
How can I make this soup vegan?
To make this soup vegan, simply ensure the oil used is plant-based and avoid adding any dairy toppings. It is naturally vegan as written, so you can enjoy it without any modifications!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).