If you’re craving a nourishing and vibrant soup that comes together in a flash, this 15-Minute Broccoli and Pea Soup (Dairy-Free & Vegan) Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It’s loaded with the goodness of four different veggies, boasts a silky texture from creamy cashews, and gets a delightful umami boost from nutritional yeast—all without a hint of dairy or oil. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you simply want something wholesome and comforting on the table fast, this soup proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this soup lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen not just for flavor but for texture and nutrition, creating a balanced bowl that’s both satisfying and light.
- Frozen broccoli (1 cup, 130 g): Provides vibrant green color and a hearty vegetable base loaded with antioxidants.
- Frozen peas (1 cup, 130 g): Adds a subtle sweetness and lovely pop of texture when blended or reserved as a garnish.
- Frozen spinach square (1 oz / 30 g): Boosts the nutrient content and deepens the green hue without overpowering the flavor.
- Zucchini (½, chopped): Contributes gentle creaminess and keeps the soup light and fresh.
- Cashews (⅓ cup, 60 g): The secret to the soup’s creamy, velvety texture, soaking them beforehand softens their richness.
- Vegetable stock (3 cups, 700 ml): The flavorful liquid base that ties all the veggies together.
- Nutritional yeast (2 tbsp): Adds cheesy, nutty notes while keeping the dish completely dairy-free.
- Garlic powder (½ tsp): Enhances the savory depth and warms the flavor without fresh garlic’s sharpness.
- Salt and pepper: Adjusts taste to perfection, bringing all the flavors into harmony.
- Additional peas (optional, for topping): For a fresh burst of sweetness and delightful texture contrast.
How to Make 15-Minute Broccoli and Pea Soup (Dairy-Free & Vegan) Recipe
Step 1: Gather and Simmer the Vegetables
Start by combining the frozen broccoli, peas, spinach, chopped zucchini, cashews, and vegetable stock in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Let everything gently simmer for about 10 minutes. This brief cooking time softens the veggies just enough while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, setting the stage for a perfectly creamy soup.
Step 2: Blend the Soup to Silky Perfection
Transfer the softened vegetable mixture into a blender, then add the nutritional yeast and garlic powder. Blend until smooth and irresistibly creamy. If you prefer, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot to save a step. Just be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending hot liquids to prevent any surprises—safety first!
Step 3: Taste and Adjust Seasonings
Give your soup a good taste and tweak the seasoning as needed. Since vegetable stock can vary in saltiness, this step ensures your soup is perfectly balanced—season with salt and pepper little by little until you hit that flavor sweet spot.
Step 4: Prepare Optional Pea Topping
If you want a pop of texture and a fresh look, gently warm some extra peas in a separate saucepan and sprinkle them on top of the soup just before serving. This adds a fun, delightful crunch and keeps the soup vibrant.
How to Serve 15-Minute Broccoli and Pea Soup (Dairy-Free & Vegan) Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing this soup is your chance to get creative and add layers of texture and flavor. A sprinkle of toasted seeds or fresh herbs such as parsley or chives adds brightness. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a dollop of plant-based yogurt can elevate it further without overpowering the gentle vegetable flavors. Those fresh peas on top offer a sweet contrast that makes every spoonful a joy.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up every last drop or a crisp green salad for an extra serving of freshness. If you want to keep it simple, some gluten-free crackers or warm pita bread make excellent companions, perfect for dunking and dipping.
Creative Ways to Present
Pour the soup into charming individual bowls and decorate each with different toppings for a personalized touch—maybe a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts on one, a swirl of coconut cream on another. You can even serve it chilled as a refreshing summer starter, garnished with a squeeze of lemon and a few mint leaves for a cool twist that surprises and delights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your delicious 15-Minute Broccoli and Pea Soup (Dairy-Free & Vegan) Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or a comforting weeknight dinner.
Freezing
If you want to keep the soup longer, freeze it in individual portions for convenience. Use freezer-friendly containers or bags and label them with the date for easy reference. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or gently reheat from frozen for a speedy meal solution.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid boiling, which can affect the creamy texture. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through, to revive it quickly without losing its silky smoothness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli, peas, and spinach will work just as well. You might need to adjust the simmering time slightly to ensure everything gets tender and blends smoothly.
Is this soup really dairy-free and vegan?
Yes! This 15-Minute Broccoli and Pea Soup (Dairy-Free & Vegan) Recipe contains no dairy or animal products. Nutritional yeast adds that cheesy flavor without needing cheese.
Can I substitute cashews with another nut or seed?
If you have nut allergies, try soaked sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. They add creaminess and a subtle nutty flavor but might change the soup’s texture a bit.
How do I make this soup oil-free?
This recipe is naturally oil-free. The creamy texture comes from cashews, so you don’t need any added fat for richness or flavor.
Can I add herbs or spices to change the flavor profile?
Definitely! Fresh herbs like basil or dill work beautifully, and a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin can add a warming depth. Feel free to tailor it to your taste.
Final Thoughts
With its bright green color, luscious creamy texture, and speedy preparation, this 15-Minute Broccoli and Pea Soup (Dairy-Free & Vegan) Recipe is a sure winner in any kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday dinner or a nourishing appetizer, it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy it is to whip up something so tasty and wholesome!
Print15-Minute Broccoli and Pea Soup (Dairy-Free & Vegan) Recipe
This vibrant and creamy Broccoli and Pea Soup is a quick, nutritious, oil-free, and dairy-free recipe that combines four different vegetables with creamy cashews and flavorful nutritional yeast. Ready in just 15 minutes, it makes a perfect light appetizer or comforting meal that is both gluten-free and vegan-friendly.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Soup, Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Gluten Free, Vegan, Dairy Free
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 cup (130 g) frozen broccoli
- 1 cup (130 g) frozen peas
- 1 (30 g) frozen spinach square
- ½ zucchini, chopped
Others
- ⅓ cup (60 g) cashews
- 3 cups (700 ml) vegetable stock
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (or substitute with parmesan)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Additional peas for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Simmer Vegetables: Add frozen broccoli, peas, spinach, chopped zucchini, cashews, and vegetable stock into a saucepan. Heat on medium-low and let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Blend Soup: Transfer the cooked vegetable and nut mixture to a blender. Add nutritional yeast and garlic powder, then blend until smooth and creamy. Use an immersion blender as an alternative if preferred.
- Season: Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference, considering the saltiness of the vegetable stock used.
- Prepare Toppings (Optional): If using additional peas as a topping, cook them separately in a small saucepan. Add these or any other toppings like olive oil drizzle, seeds, shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or yogurt when serving.
Notes
- Storing: Store this soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well in individual portions.
- Serving Suggestions: Enhance with olive oil, extra peas, seeds, shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or yogurt for added texture and flavor.
- Blending Hot Liquids: Let the vegetable mixture cool slightly before blending to avoid steam pressure building up. Only fill the blender halfway for safety, even if using a vented lid or heat-proof bowl.
