Chilled Creamy Basil and Pea Soup – A Refreshing Summer Delight
Cool off with this Chilled Creamy Basil and Pea Soup! A healthy, vibrant summer soup recipe that’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for hot days.
Introduction
When summer temperatures rise, the last thing anyone wants is a heavy, hot meal. That’s where chilled soups come to the rescue light, refreshing, and full of seasonal goodness.
One of the best cold soup recipes you’ll ever try is this Chilled Creamy Basil and Pea Soup. It’s easy, healthy, beautifully green, and bursting with flavor from sweet peas and fresh basil.
Whether you're looking for a refreshing starter for a summer dinner party, a healthy lunch option, or a creative way to use your garden herbs, this creamy pea and basil soup is just what you need.
In this post, you’ll find:
A step-by-step recipe
Health benefits of the ingredients
Tips for perfect texture and flavor
Storage and serving ideas
Variations to suit all diets
Let’s dive into this vibrant bowl of green goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Chilled Basil and Pea Soup
Quick and easy – Ready in just 20 minutes
No-cook option – Minimal cooking or completely raw if using thawed frozen peas
Nutrient-rich – Loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants
Dairy-free option – Can be made with coconut milk or plant-based cream
Gourmet flavor – Perfect for casual meals or fancy occasions
Ingredients (Serves 4)
3 cups frozen peas (thawed) or fresh green peas
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1 clove garlic (optional for extra depth)
1 small shallot or 1/4 small onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
1 ½ cups vegetable broth or cold water (adjust to desired thickness)
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or coconut cream (for dairy-free)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish: drizzle of olive oil, microgreens, basil leaves, or pea shoots
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
If using frozen peas, let them thaw at room temperature or run under warm water for a few minutes. If using fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 1–2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to cool quickly. This keeps the bright green color and fresh taste.
Step 2: Blend the Soup
In a high-speed blender or food processor, add:
Peas
Basil leaves
Shallot or onion
Garlic (if using)
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Yogurt or cream
A pinch of salt and pepper
Add about 1 cup of vegetable broth to start. Blend until completely smooth. Adjust consistency with more broth or cold water as needed.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Taste your soup and adjust the seasonings. You can add:
More lemon juice for brightness
Extra basil for deeper herbal notes
A dash of chili flakes for a spicy kick
Step 4: Chill
Transfer the soup to the fridge for at least 1 hour to chill completely. You can also serve it immediately over ice if you’re short on time.
Step 5: Serve
Pour the soup into bowls or small glasses for an elegant appetizer. Garnish with olive oil, herbs, or yogurt swirls.
Nutritional Benefits
This chilled creamy soup isn’t just delicious—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Let’s break down the health benefits:
🌱 Green Peas
Rich in plant-based protein and fiber
Good source of vitamins A, C, and K
Contains iron, zinc, and antioxidants
🌿 Fresh Basil
Anti-inflammatory properties
High in vitamin K
Supports heart health and immune function
Greek Yogurt / Coconut Cream
Adds creaminess without heavy cream
Greek yogurt: probiotics and calcium
Coconut cream: healthy fats and dairy-free
Garlic and Onion
Supports immunity and digestion
Natural detoxifying agents
This recipe is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by swapping out yogurt for coconut cream or a plant-based alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is versatile and pairs well with many summer dishes. Here are a few serving ideas:
Serve in small glasses as a fancy appetizer for a garden party.
Pair with crusty bread or grilled flatbread for a light lunch.
Top with toasted pine nuts or croutons for texture.
Add a swirl of pesto or balsamic reduction for a gourmet touch.
Enjoy alongside grilled fish or chicken skewers for a full meal.
Make-Ahead and Storage
This soup is perfect for meal prep or summer parties because it keeps well:
Make ahead: Prepare up to 24 hours in advance.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing not recommended due to the fresh basil and creamy texture—it may separate when thawed.
Variations and Substitutions
Want to make this recipe your own? Here are some tasty variations:
Spicy Kick
Add a small green chili or 1/4 tsp red chili flakes while blending for a spicier version.
Cucumber Twist
Blend in half a cucumber for a more hydrating, summery flavor.
Cheesy Delight
Top with crumbled feta or grated parmesan for a savory umami boost.
Avocado Creaminess
Add half an avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
Vegan Version
Use plant-based yogurt or coconut milk instead of dairy.
Tips for the Best Chilled Basil and Pea Soup
Use fresh basil – Wilted herbs can taste bitter.
Don’t over-blend – Blend just until smooth to keep color and texture intact.
Balance flavors – Lemon juice brightens the peas; don’t skip it.
Cool ingredients before blending – Helps maintain a vibrant green hue.
Chill thoroughly – Cold soup is key for maximum refreshment.
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