Pesto pea soup with celery, onion and carrot

Pesto pea soup with celery, onion, and carrot combines vibrant peas and fresh basil with the hearty flavor of chicken gravy for a nutritious and satisfying meal. This easy soup is perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.

20 Nov 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 stalk celery
1 onion
1 carrot
2 cups chicken gravy
2 cups water
1 cup basil leaves
3 cups peas
Pesto pea soup with celery, onion and carrot

Pesto pea soup with celery, onion, and carrot is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the fresh, vibrant flavors of peas and basil with the hearty taste of chicken gravy. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, offering a balanced mix of vegetables and herbs that will please your taste buds and nourish your body.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Dice the celery, onion, and carrot into small, uniform pieces for even cooking.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a small amount of butter.
- Add the diced celery, onion, and carrot to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables become tender and the onions are translucent.
3. Add the Liquids:
- Pour in the chicken gravy and water. Stir to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
4. Add the Peas:
- Once the liquid is simmering, add the peas to the pot. If using fresh peas, cook for about 5 minutes, until they are tender. If using frozen peas, add them directly to the pot and simmer for about 3-4 minutes.
5. Blend the Soup:
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup in the pot until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender, blending until smooth, and then return it to the pot. Be cautious with hot liquids in a blender.
6. Add the Basil:
- Stir in the basil leaves. Blend again with the immersion blender or in the blender until the basil is fully incorporated and the soup is smooth.
7. Season to Taste:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the soup is too thick, you can add more water or chicken gravy to achieve your desired consistency.
8. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Optionally, garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, or some grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Enjoy:
- Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or a light salad on the side.

Enjoy your delicious and healthful Pesto Pea Soup with celery, onion, and carrot. This recipe provides a wonderful blend of flavors and nutrients, making it an excellent choice for any meal. Feel free to experiment with additional herbs or spices to suit your personal taste, and remember that soups are always better when shared with loved ones.

Pesto pea soup with celery, onion and carrot FAQ:

What is the recommended baking time for pesto pea soup?

This recipe does not involve baking; instead, the soup is simmered on the stovetop. After sautéing the vegetables, bring the mixture to a simmer and add the peas.

How do I know when the peas are done cooking?

Fresh peas typically take about 5 minutes to become tender when simmered in the soup, while frozen peas usually require about 3-4 minutes. The peas should be bright green and soft when done.

Can I store leftover pesto pea soup?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

What can I use instead of chicken gravy?

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute chicken gravy with vegetable broth or a cream of vegetable soup to maintain creaminess and flavor.

What pan size is best for making this soup?

A large saucepan or a pot with a capacity of at least 4 quarts is recommended to accommodate all the ingredients and allow for simmering.

Tips:

- Chop the celery, onion, and carrot into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Sauté the vegetables in a bit of olive oil before adding the liquids to enhance their flavors.

- Use a high-quality chicken gravy for the best flavor, or substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

- If using fresh peas, blanch them briefly before adding to the soup. If using frozen peas, there's no need to thaw; just add them directly to the soup.

- For a smoother texture, blend the soup with an immersion blender until it reaches your desired consistency. You can leave some chunks if you prefer a more rustic feel.

- Use fresh basil leaves for the pesto to achieve the brightest, most vibrant flavor. Add the basil towards the end of cooking to retain its fresh taste.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 150kcal
Protein 6g
Carbohydrates 24g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 7g
Fat 3.49g

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