Creamy Pea Soup (Vellutata di Piselli)
A creamy pea soup, or Vellutata di Piselli, is a warm, comforting first course that’s perfect for any season. This delightful dish combines the fresh sweetness of peas with the richness of cream, creating a velvety texture that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Ideal for serving during family dinners or as a special treat on chilly evenings, this Italian-inspired recipe is quick to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh or frozen peas | 1 kg (about 2.2 lbs) |
| White onions | 100 g (about 1 medium onion) |
| Fresh liquid cream | 20 g |
| Grana Padano DOP cheese | 50 g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 30 g |
| Fine salt | To taste |
| Ground black pepper | To taste |
| Vegetable broth | 400 g (about 1.7 cups) |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
| Sugar | 7 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preparing the vegetable broth; you can use store-bought or homemade broth. Once it’s ready, peel and finely chop the white onion. Set aside for later. -
-
Sauté the Onion
In a large pot, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté gently, stirring frequently. You want to soften the onion without letting it brown. The goal is to create a sweet, aromatic base for the soup. Let the onion cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and tender. -
Add the Peas
Once the onion is ready, add the peas to the pot. Whether you’re using fresh peas or frozen peas, the process remains the same. Stir the peas into the onion mixture, ensuring they’re well coated with the oil and onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let this cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the peas to soften slightly and absorb the flavors of the oil and onion. -
Add the Broth
Pour in 350 g of vegetable broth (reserve the remaining 50 g for later). Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook the peas for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the peas are tender and fully cooked through. -
Blend the Soup
Once the peas are soft, remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until it reaches a smooth, velvety consistency. If you prefer a thinner soup, you can gradually add the remaining vegetable broth while blending, adjusting the texture to your liking. -
Finish the Soup
After blending, add the fresh cream to the soup. Stir well and return the pot to the heat. Let the soup simmer gently for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly. -
Strain the Soup (Optional)
For an extra smooth texture, you can pass the soup through a fine-mesh sieve or colander to remove any bits of pulp or skin, leaving behind a perfectly silky soup. This step is optional but adds to the luxurious texture of the finished dish. -
Serve and Garnish
Pour the creamy pea soup into bowls. Grate a generous amount of Grana Padano DOP cheese over the top for an extra burst of flavor. The nutty, rich cheese complements the creamy peas perfectly. You can also add a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a touch of richness. Serve the soup hot, and enjoy the comforting, velvety smoothness in every spoonful.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pea soup is perfect as a first course, but it can also stand alone as a light lunch or dinner when paired with crusty bread or a side salad. For a more substantial meal, serve with a grilled cheese sandwich or a savory pastry.
Tips & Variations
- Vegan Option: To make this soup dairy-free, simply replace the cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and omit the Grana Padano cheese or use a plant-based cheese.
- Herb Additions: For a more aromatic version, consider adding fresh herbs like mint or thyme during the simmering stage. These herbs complement the peas beautifully and can add a new dimension of flavor.
- Spicy Twist: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions, or finish with a drizzle of chili oil.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This Vellutata di Piselli is not just delicious—it’s also incredibly versatile. With simple ingredients, it’s a great way to enjoy seasonal peas, whether fresh or frozen, and can be adjusted to suit your dietary preferences. The creamy texture makes it feel indulgent, while the fresh, natural flavors keep it light and refreshing. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a sophisticated starter for a dinner party, this soup is sure to impress.
