Nigella Pea And Mint Soup
Dive into the refreshing world of Nigella Lawson's Pea and Pesto Soup, a delightful blend that brings a burst of spring to your table regardless of the season. This simple yet exquisite soup is highlighted in Nigella's cookbook "NIGELLA EXPRESS," showcasing her knack for creating flavorful dishes with minimal fuss.
Pea and Pesto Soup: A Quick Overview
The essence of this soup lies in its vibrant ingredients, primarily frozen peas that ensure convenience without compromising on taste. The addition of fresh pesto elevates the dish, offering a depth of flavor that is significantly enhanced when using high-quality, fresh pesto available in chiller sections of supermarkets. The recipe is straightforward, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a blender to achieve a smooth and inviting texture.
Cultural and Historical Context
Pea soup has a rich history across various cuisines, often celebrated for its simplicity and the ease of using peas, a widely accessible and nutritious vegetable. The addition of mint or pesto in pea soup is a modern twist, introducing an Italian flair to this classic dish, and is a testament to Nigella Lawson's ability to blend traditional recipes with contemporary tastes.
Ingredients for the Pea and Pesto Soup
- Frozen peas: 375 grams
- Spring onions: 2 (trimmed but kept whole)
- Maldon salt or table salt: 1 teaspoon / ½ teaspoon respectively
- Fresh lime juice: ½ teaspoon
- Pesto: 4 tablespoons
- Pine nuts (optional): 2 tablespoons
Preparation Instructions
- Start by boiling water in a kettle, then measure out 750ml into a pan to bring back to the boil.
- Add peas, spring onions, salt, and lime juice to the pan, letting them simmer for 7 minutes.
- Remove the spring onions, and blend the peas with their liquid and pesto until smooth.
- Optionally, toast pine nuts and sprinkle them over the soup before serving.
Storage and Reheating
Pea and pesto soup is ideal for preparing ahead, as the flavors develop more fully when allowed to sit. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove. The soup also freezes well for future enjoyment.
Nutritional Information
While specific nutritional details vary based on ingredient choices, this soup is generally low in calories yet rich in protein and fiber, thanks to the peas. The inclusion of pesto adds healthy fats, particularly if olive oil-based.
FAQ about Pea and Pesto Soup
- Can I use homemade pesto? Absolutely, homemade pesto can elevate the flavor even further.
- Is this soup suitable for vegetarians? Yes, but check the pesto for cheese made with rennet if you're strictly vegetarian.
- Can I make this soup without a blender? A blender achieves the smoothest texture, but a food processor can work if necessary, with a slightly different texture.
This Pea and Pesto Soup by Nigella Lawson is more than just a dish; it's a testament to the joy of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly delightful. Perfect as a light meal or a starter, it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for a satisfying experience.
For more detailed instructions and additional tips, you can explore Nigella Lawson's original recipe in her "NIGELLA EXPRESS" cookbook or visit her official website.