Name: Delicious Fennel Soup with Peas & Lemon for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Rapeseed or Sunflower Oil (Substitute with olive oil for a different flavor.); 2 bulbs Fennel (Provides a unique aniseed flavor.); 1 small Onion (Yellow onion preferred.); 4 cloves Garlic (Fresh cloves are ideal.); 4 cups Vegetable Stock (Ensure it's vegan.); 1 cup Frozen Peas (Contributes sweetness and creaminess.); 1 can Coconut Milk (Use dairy-free cream if needed.); 1 juice Lemon (Fresh lemon juice is best.); 2 cups Baby Spinach (Substitute with kale or chard.); 0.25 cup Fresh Parsley (Substitute with other herbs if desired.)

As the oven warms up, the sweet, licorice notes of fennel fill the air—it’s a gentle reminder of springtime gardens. Today, I’m excited to share my Creamy Roasted Fennel Soup with Peas & Lemon, a dish that perfectly marries simplicity with elegance. This vegan-friendly soup not only boasts a creamy texture that warms the soul, but it also packs a delicious flavor punch with the subtle sweetness of roasted fennel and the bright zing of lemon. Whether you whip this up for a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, its easy preparation means you won’t spend all day in the kitchen. Plus, it pairs flawlessly with crusty bread for dipping—what’s not to love? Curious about how to make this delightful soup your own? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Choose Fennel Soup with Peas?

Flavor Explosion: The harmony of roasted fennel and fresh peas creates a soup that bursts with flavor, perfect for those who crave something new.
Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is entirely plant-based, ensuring everyone can enjoy a comforting bowl without compromise.
Elegant Yet Easy: Impress your guests or treat yourself; the preparation is straightforward, making it suitable for any occasion.
Comfort in a Bowl: The creamy texture and warm notes are ideal for cozy nights spent at home.
Flexible Ingredients: Substitutions are a breeze—switch out peas for butter beans or enhance with herbs like fresh thyme. Whether served as a starter or paired with crusty bread from the oven, this soup is a versatile delight you’ll want to make again and again!

Fennel Soup with Peas & Lemon Ingredients

• Get ready for a creamy delight with these essential ingredients!

For the Soup Base

Rapeseed or Sunflower Oil – Adds richness and aids in roasting; substitute with olive oil for a different flavor.
Fennel Bulbs – Provides a unique aniseed flavor that sweetens when roasted; great for new fennel cooks.
Small Onion – Adds depth and sweetness to the soup; yellow onion is preferred, but shallots can work too.
Garlic Cloves – Roasting softens their sharpness, adding a sweet depth; fresh cloves are ideal but ready-chopped garlic can be used if needed.
Vegetable Stock – Provides the soup base; ensure it’s vegan and choose a lower-sodium option to control saltiness.

For the Creamy Touch

Frozen Peas – Contributes sweetness and creaminess without overpowering; substitute with fresh peas or other soft legumes like butter beans.
Coconut Milk – Enriches texture and flavor, adding a hint of creaminess; use dairy-free cream in its absence.
Lemon – Brightens and balances the soup’s flavors; fresh lemon juice is best.

For Extra Nutrients

Baby Spinach – Adds color and nutrients; substitute with kale or chard, adjusting cooking time as needed.
Fresh Parsley – Enhances freshness and flavor; substitute with other herbs like dill or mint if desired.

With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to create a stunning bowl of fennel soup with peas & lemon that will warm your soul!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Roasted Fennel Soup with Peas & Lemon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This temperature is perfect for roasting the fennel and onion to bring out their natural sweetness. While the oven warms up, gather your roasting dish and prepare the vegetables for an aromatic cooking experience.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Trim the fennel bulbs by cutting off the fronds and base, then slice them into wedges. Next, peel and slice the onion into thin strips. Don’t forget to also prepare the garlic cloves by leaving them unpeeled—this will add a delightful flavor once roasted.

Step 3: Combine & Season
Place the fennel wedges, sliced onion, and unpeeled garlic in a large roasting dish. Drizzle with rapeseed or sunflower oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss everything together. Make sure the vegetables are well-coated; they’ll roast beautifully, achieving that mouthwatering caramelization and flavor!

Step 4: Roast the Vegetables
Roast the combined vegetables in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the fennel is tender and shows a lovely golden-brown color. This roasting step is crucial for creating a deep, delicious flavor in your creamy roasted fennel soup.

Step 5: Squeeze the Garlic
Once the vegetables are roasted, carefully squeeze the softened garlic from its skins and add it back into the roasting dish. The roasted garlic will enhance the soup’s creamy texture and sweetness, melding perfectly with the fennel and peas for a delightful flavor.

Step 6: Prepare the Soup Base
In a medium saucepan, bring approximately 4 cups of vegetable stock to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, add the roasted vegetables from the roasting dish along with the frozen peas. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes; this will infuse the stock with the lovely flavors of the fennel soup.

Step 7: Blend the Soup
After simmering, carefully transfer the entire mixture into a blender or use an immersion blender right in the pot. Blend until you achieve a smooth, velvety texture, allowing the flavorful components of your fennel soup with peas & lemon to come together beautifully.

Step 8: Add Creaminess and Flavor
Return the blended soup to the saucepan over low heat. Stir in the coconut milk, freshly squeezed lemon juice, baby spinach, and chopped parsley. Warm gently for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. This adds a rich creaminess and brightness to your wonderful soup.

Step 9: Adjust Seasoning
Finally, taste your creamy roasted fennel soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference. This final touch ensures that every spoonful is bursting with flavor, making your soup truly irresistible!

What to Serve with Creamy Roasted Fennel Soup with Peas & Lemon

As you savor the rich, creamy flavors of your soup, consider these mouthwatering accompaniments that elevate every bite.

Crusty Bread: A warm loaf is perfect for dipping, soaking up the delightful flavors of the soup.
Garlic Breadsticks: These crunchy, garlic-infused sticks add an aromatic crunch that perfectly contrasts the soup’s creaminess.
Fresh Green Salad: Bright greens tossed with a zesty vinaigrette provide a refreshing balance to the rich soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned veggies complement the roasted fennel’s flavor while adding delicious textures and a colorful presentation.
Herbed Quinoa: This nutty side dish, laced with fresh herbs, brings protein and complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink, it adds a splash of zest and cleanses the palate between bites.
Coconut Macaroons: For dessert, these chewy treats with a hint of sweetness mirror the coconut milk depth in your soup—a delightful finale!

Fennel Soup with Peas & Lemon Variations

Feel free to personalize your soup and add your own twist; the possibilities are endless!

Dairy-Free Creaminess: Substitute coconut milk with almond or cashew cream for a nutty flavor and creamy texture.
Herb-Infused Delight: Add fresh thyme or dill during the roasting process for an aromatic boost that enhances the soup’s complexity. The scent of fresh herbs wafting through your kitchen will elevate your experience.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give your soup an unexpected warmth, perfect for those who love a little heat.
Current Greens: Swap baby spinach for kale or Swiss chard. These hardy greens bring both texture and nutrients to the soup, ensuring it’s as hearty as it is delicious.
Salty Savory: Sprinkle in some nutritional yeast as you blend for an umami flavor that brings depth and enhances the vegan aspect. It’s a little secret to achieving a rich, savory taste.
Texture Twist: Swap frozen peas for butter beans or even small diced potatoes for a hearty variation that is equally filling. Take it a step further by adding crunchy toppings like croutons for contrast!
Bright Zing: Fresh lemon zest or a touch of lemon-infused olive oil added at the end will heighten the citrus notes, making the soup even more refreshing.
Crusty Companion: Serve alongside freshly baked bread, such as Crusty Bread, for a comforting meal that satisfies the soul.

Feel excited to experiment—every bowl can be a culinary journey and the perfect way to brighten any day!

Storage Tips for Fennel Soup with Peas & Lemon

Fridge: Store your creamy fennel soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to keep it fresh.

Freezer: Freeze portions of the fennel soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Consider adding a splash of lemon juice after thawing for an extra zing!

Reheating: Gently reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems too thick, add a splash of vegetable stock or water and heat until warmed through.

Avoiding Freezer Burn: Use airtight bags or containers to prevent freezer burn, ensuring your fennel soup retains its delightful creamy flavor even after freezing.

Expert Tips for Fennel Soup with Peas & Lemon

Perfect Smoothness: Blend for 1-2 minutes to achieve a velvety texture. Rushing this step may leave lumps in your soup.
Roast, Don’t Boil: Always roast the fennel and garlic to enhance their natural sweetness. Boiling can dull their flavors and texture.
Freezing Wisely: If you plan to freeze the soup, add an extra squeeze of lemon juice after thawing for a fresh burst of flavor.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh garlic and vegetables elevates the taste. If using pre-chopped garlic, ensure it’s high quality to maintain flavor.
Experiment with Greens: Feel free to swap baby spinach for kale or chard, adjusting cooking times to ensure they’re tender in your creamy fennel soup.

Make Ahead Options

These creamy roasted fennel soup with peas & lemon is a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the fennel, onion, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully—simply cool and store them in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the soup base (adding peas and stock) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just blend the roasted mixture with the stock and warm it on the stovetop. This makes for a quick and satisfying meal, ensuring your soup is just as delicious when finished, with flavors remaining vibrant and fresh!

Fennel Soup with Peas & Lemon Recipe FAQs

How to choose ripe fennel?
Absolutely! When selecting fennel, look for bulbs that are firm and heavy for their size. The outer layers should be bright white or green, with no dark spots or blemishes. If the fronds are vibrant and fresh, it’s a bonus—this means your fennel is fresh and flavorful!

How long can I store the soup in the refrigerator?
Very! Your creamy fennel soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure it cools completely before sealing it up to keep it tasting fresh.

Can I freeze fennel soup?
Definitely! To freeze your fennel soup, ladle it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space at the top for expansion. Seal tightly and it can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

What if my soup is too thick after freezing?
No worries! If you find your fennel soup has thickened after freezing, simply whisk in a little vegetable stock or water while reheating it on low heat. Stir it until the desired consistency is reached; this will bring it back to life and restore that luscious texture!

Are there any allergy considerations with this soup?
I often share this with friends who have dietary sensitivities! This recipe is vegan-friendly, but do check that your vegetable stock and coconut milk are free from allergens. If anyone has a nut allergy, ensure you choose a coconut milk without any added ingredients that may contain nuts.

Can I substitute ingredients if I don’t have fennel or peas?
Absolutely! If fennel is hard to find, you can use leeks or celery for a different flavor base. For peas, butter beans or even cooked potatoes work wonderfully as substitutes. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, and feel free to get creative!