As I stood over my kitchen counter, the warm scent of roasted fennel filled the air and instantly transported me to sun-kissed summer days. This Creamy Roasted Fennel Soup with Peas and Lemon is a delightful blend of sweetness and freshness that makes it a go-to dish for cozy lunches or elegant dinners. With its creamy texture and vibrant flavors, this vegan and gluten-free recipe is not only quick to prepare but also offers a nutritious option that pleases both the palate and the conscience. The harmony of roasted fennel and green peas, brightened by a splash of lemon, creates a soup that’s comforting yet sophisticated. Are you ready to impress your loved ones and elevate your homemade meals? Let’s dive right into this deliciously simple recipe!
Why is this soup a must-try?
Unique Flavor Profile: The balance of roasted fennel and sweet peas creates a delightful blend that’s both comforting and refreshing.
Quick Prep Time: Ready in under an hour, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for dinner parties.
Vegan and Gluten-Free: A healthy choice that caters to various dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs or substitute peas with beans for a different twist!
Perfect for Storage: This soup freezes well, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping or whipping up a quick dinner on a chilly night.
Elevate your meal with warm, crusty bread on the side or pair it with a light salad – like our delicious Gouda Broccoli Soup for an unforgettable experience!
Fennel Soup with Peas Ingredients
For the Soup
• Rapeseed or Sunflower Oil – Adds richness and aids in roasting the vegetables evenly; olive oil can be a delightful substitute.
• Fennel Bulbs – Provides a unique aniseed flavor, enhanced through roasting; remember to trim and cut into wedges for even cooking.
• Small Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the soup base; shallots can also be used for a milder flavor.
• Garlic Cloves – Roasting in the skin develops a sweet flavor; pre-chopped garlic is an option for convenience, though taste may vary.
• Vegetable Stock – Serves as the soup base, infusing moisture and flavor; ensure it’s vegan-friendly for the best results.
• Frozen Peas – Contributes sweetness and creaminess when blended, perfect for our Fennel Soup with Peas and Lemon; fresh peas can be substituted if they’re available.
• Coconut Milk – Adds a luscious creaminess to the soup; you may substitute it with dairy-free cream if desired.
• Lemon – Brightens the soup with its zesty freshness; a squeeze before serving enhances the flavor beautifully.
• Baby Spinach – Introduces color and nutrition; feel free to swap with any leafy green like chard or kale.
• Fresh Parsley – For garnish and added freshness; cilantro can be used for a different flavor twist.
Enjoy whipping up this delightful Fennel Soup with Peas!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Roasted Fennel Soup with Peas and Lemon
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This temperature is essential for achieving perfectly roasted fennel, which will add depth to your creamy soup. While the oven heats, gather your roasting tray and other ingredients to streamline the process.
Step 2: Prepare Fennel and Onion
Trim the fennel bulbs and cut them into wedges, ensuring they are ready for roasting. Slice a small onion and place both the fennel and onion in the roasting tray. Add a drizzle of rapeseed or sunflower oil, along with unpeeled garlic cloves, then season generously with salt and pepper for flavor enhancement.
Step 3: Roast Vegetables
Roast the prepared fennel, onion, and garlic in the oven for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the fennel is soft and slightly caramelized, releasing a fragrant aroma. Ensure to check that the edges are browned, which will add deliciously sweet undertones to your fennel soup with peas and lemon.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Once roasted, carefully squeeze the garlic from its skin into the roasting tray, releasing its sweet flavor. Transfer the fennel, onion, and roasted garlic into a saucepan filled with boiling vegetable stock. This will create the base of your creamy soup, combining the hearty aromas beautifully.
Step 5: Add Peas
Stir in the frozen peas, allowing them to mingle with the other ingredients in the saucepan. Let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes, so the peas become tender and the flavors continue to develop, creating the comforting essence of the soup.
Step 6: Blend the Mixture
Using a hand blender, purée the soup mixture until it reaches a velvety-smooth consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, feel free to blend partially, leaving some pieces of fennel or peas to enjoy. This blending step is key to achieving the creamy texture that defines your Fennel Soup with Peas and Lemon.
Step 7: Finish the Soup
Finally, stir in the rich coconut milk, fresh lemon juice, baby spinach, and chopped parsley into the puréed soup. Blend again briefly to combine everything smoothly, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, preparing your soup for serving.
Expert Tips for Fennel Soup with Peas
• Roasting Precision: Ensure the fennel is well-cut into wedges so it roasts evenly, bringing out that sweet, nutty flavor essential for this creamy soup.
• Blending Technique: Use a stick blender for the smoothest texture. Blend for at least one minute to achieve a silky, luxurious finish.
• Taste Adjustment: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust with extra lemon juice. It brightens the overall flavor of your fennel soup with peas & lemon beautifully.
• Storage Savvy: This soup freezes well, but for the best flavor, add fresh lemon juice after reheating. It revitalizes the soup’s aroma upon serving.
• Substitutions Allowed: Feel free to experiment with ingredients like fresh herbs or swap frozen peas for other beans to add your own twist to this comforting classic.
Variations & Substitutions for Fennel Soup with Peas
Feel free to get creative and customize your Fennel Soup with Peas and Lemon to match your cravings or dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Use unsweetened almond milk instead of coconut milk for a lighter twist that still keeps the creaminess intact.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh dill or thyme while blending for an aromatic herbal kick that beautifully complements the fennel’s flavor.
- Creamy Alternative: Swap coconut milk with cashew cream for a decadent richness; simply blend soaked cashews with water until smooth.
- Spicy Upgrade: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a hint of cayenne for a warm spicy touch, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Protein Boost: Include white beans, like cannellini, to enhance the soup’s creaminess while adding a healthy protein source.
- Nutty Flavor: Drizzle with toasted sesame oil right before serving for an extra layer of flavor that elevates this comforting soup.
- Chilled Version: Serve the soup chilled for a refreshing summer dish; the bright flavors of lemon will shine in this cooler format!
- Colorful Addition: Stir in a handful of vibrant diced carrots or bell peppers before blending for added nutrition and a pop of color.
For more comforting options, consider pairing this soup with our Reuben Soup Comforting or indulging in a slice of delicious Lemon Zucchini Bread for a delightful meal experience!
Make Ahead Options
This Creamy Roasted Fennel Soup with Peas and Lemon is a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time on busy weekdays! You can roast the fennel, onion, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container. This not only enhances their sweetness but also allows you to save time when you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to enjoy, simply reheat the roasted vegetables with boiling vegetable stock, add frozen peas, and blend with coconut milk, lemon juice, spinach, and parsley for a fresh finish. This method ensures your soup remains just as delicious and vibrant as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Creamy Roasted Fennel Soup with Peas and Lemon
Pairing your comforting soup with delightful sides can enhance every bite and create a full, heartwarming meal.
- Crusty Bread: The perfect vessel for soaking up the rich, creamy soup while adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
- Garlic Croutons: Add a delightful crunch and a pop of savory flavor, elevating the overall experience with each scoop of soup.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, adding brightness and variety to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a hearty contrast and complement the fennel flavor, making your meal even more vibrant.
- Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty side adds texture and complements the soup’s creaminess, bringing a nutritious element to your dining experience.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs well, enhancing the lemon notes in the soup while offering a refreshing contrast.
With these delicious pairings, your Creamy Roasted Fennel Soup with Peas and Lemon will shine brighter than ever!
Storage Tips for Fennel Soup with Peas & Lemon
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring the soup stays fresh and ready for a quick meal.
Freezer: This soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. For freshness, consider adding a splash of lemon juice before serving.
Portions: If you prefer to meal prep, divide the Fennel Soup with Peas & Lemon into single-serving portions for easy grab-and-go meals!
Creamy Roasted Fennel Soup with Peas and Lemon Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe fennel bulbs for this soup?
Absolutely! When selecting fennel bulbs, look for ones that are firm, heavy, and have a bright white color. Avoid any that show dark spots or wilting leaves, as this can indicate spoilage. Fresh fennel should have a pleasant, slightly sweet aroma.
How should I store leftover Fennel Soup with Peas & Lemon?
Very! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the soup completely before refrigerating, as this helps maintain its texture and flavors for later enjoyment.
Can I freeze the soup? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze the Fennel Soup with Peas & Lemon, allow it to cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some air space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally.
What if my soup is too thick or too thin after blending?
No worries! If your soup is thicker than you prefer, simply stir in a little more vegetable stock or warm water until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, simmer it on the stove over low heat for a few minutes to help it thicken up, stirring to prevent sticking.
Is this soup safe for pets and what about allergies?
Definitely! This Fennel Soup is vegan and free from common allergens like gluten, making it an excellent choice for many diets. However, the soup does contain garlic, which is not safe for pets. Always keep it out of reach of your furry friends and consider allergens before serving to guests.
Creamy Fennel Soup with Peas & Lemon for Cozy Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Trim the fennel bulbs and cut into wedges. Slice the onion and place both in the roasting tray along with garlic.
- Drizzle with oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until soft and caramelized.
- Squeeze roasted garlic from its skin into the tray, and transfer fennel, onion, and garlic into a saucepan with boiling vegetable stock.
- Stir in the frozen peas and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Blend the mixture until smooth, adjusting the texture as preferred.
- Stir in coconut milk, lemon juice, spinach, and parsley. Blend briefly to combine.
Leave a Reply