Garden Fresh Spring Soup

Name: Garden Fresh Spring Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup asparagus, chopped; 1 cup green peas, fresh or frozen; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup potatoes, diced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (parsley or dill) for garnishing

Highlighted under: Seasonal Celebration Dishes

I love making Garden Fresh Spring Soup during the vibrant spring months when produce is at its peak. The blend of fresh vegetables not only brings a bright color to the dish but also an incredible depth of flavor that’s both comforting and nourishing. Each ingredient shines through, whether it's the crisp asparagus or the sweet peas. It's a light yet satisfying option for both lunch and dinner, perfect for enjoying on a sunny day with a slice of crusty bread.

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-01-29T23:25:28.939Z

In my kitchen, the arrival of spring means it's time to draw inspiration from the seasonal bounty available at the farmers' market. I experimented with various vegetables to create this Garden Fresh Spring Soup, which truly celebrates the freshness of the season. The result? A soup with layers of flavors that I can't resist.

As I prepared this dish, I noticed how sautéing garlic and onions first creates a flavor base, elevating the entire soup. Adding the veggies in stages preserves their individual texture, making each bite a delightful crunch. It’s this mindful approach to cooking that brings out the best in every ingredient.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bursting with seasonal flavors from fresh vegetables
Light yet hearty, perfect for any meal
Simple and quick, making it ideal for busy weeknights

Maximizing Freshness

Using farm-fresh vegetables makes all the difference in this soup. Asparagus, peas, and carrots add vibrant colors and layers of flavor. When selecting asparagus, look for firm, straight stalks with tightly closed tips. This indicates freshness and sweetness. Frozen peas are an excellent alternative if fresh ones aren’t available; they are harvested at peak ripeness and quickly frozen, retaining their nutrients and flavor.

Cut your vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Dicing potatoes and carrots to around half an inch allows them to soften while maintaining a pleasing texture. You want them tender but not mushy. For the asparagus, chop the stalks thinly, ensuring all pieces are cooked through and evenly distributed throughout the soup.

The Perfect Broth

A quality vegetable broth is crucial for this recipe as it serves as the soup's foundation. Store-bought broths can vary greatly in flavor and saltiness, so taste yours before seasoning. I typically use low-sodium vegetable broth, allowing me to control the salt levels better. Alternatively, homemade broth packs a punch—try simmering leftover vegetable scraps like onion skins, carrot tops, and herb stems for added depth.

If you're looking for a heartier soup, consider adding a can of drained beans like cannellini or chickpeas. They blend well with the veggies and contribute additional protein and fiber. Just toss them in during the last 10 minutes of simmering to ensure they heat through without breaking apart.

Ingredients

Fresh Vegetables

1 cup asparagus, chopped
1 cup green peas, fresh or frozen
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup potatoes, diced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (parsley or dill) for garnishing

Preparation

Instructions

Sauté the Base

In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they are translucent.

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the diced potatoes and carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes before adding the asparagus and peas.

Pour in the Broth

Add vegetable broth to the pot, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer and Serve

Let the soup simmer for 20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, you can add a splash of lemon juice just before serving. This adds a refreshing brightness that complements the vegetables beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Garden Fresh Spring Soup stores beautifully. After it cools, transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days. To freeze, use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. The soup retains its wonderful flavors quite well, but be mindful that some vegetables may alter in texture once frozen and thawed.

For a quick meal, prepare a big batch on the weekend and portion it out. When reheating, do it over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of broth or water can help restore its original consistency. Avoid microwaving for prolonged periods, as heating too fast can overly soften the vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Garden Fresh Spring Soup with a crusty slice of bread, perfect for dipping. I love to pair it with a light salad topped with a lemon vinaigrette, which cuts through the soup’s richness. You can also top the soup with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream for creaminess, or sprinkle some grated cheese for extra flavor.

For a more filling meal, consider adding quinoa or pasta to the mix. Both will absorb the broth's flavors while adding a satisfying texture. If you want to spice things up, a dash of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can elevate the soup, providing a refreshing kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used and will still yield a delicious soup. Just add them towards the end of cooking.

→ How can I make this soup creamier?

You can blend part of the soup with an immersion blender after cooking to achieve a creamier texture.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add your favorites like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.