Green Pea and Mint Soup

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 green onions, chopped
• 1 pound frozen or fresh green peas
• 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth or stock
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
• 2 1/2 cups milk
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 pinch white sugar (optional)
• 1/2 cup light whipping cream
• 2 sprigs fresh mint leaves for garnish

Directions

Melt butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over low heat. Add the 4 chopped green onions, and cook until softened, but not brown. Stir in the peas, vegetable stock, and 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh mint. Increase heat to medium, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat back to low, cover, and let simmer for about 30 minutes. If you are using frozen peas, 15 minutes is enough.

Using a large slotted spoon, remove about 3 tablespoons of the peas, and set aside for garnish. Pour the soup into a blender or food processor along with the milk, and puree until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Throw in a pinch of sugar if desired. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled.

Pour the soup into 4 serving bowls. Swirl 1 tablespoon of light cream into each one, then garnish with reserved peas and sprigs of mint.