Hearty Chestnut Spinach and Green Pea Soup

Introduction

Aromatic onions, earthy chestnuts, and vibrant green peas simmer together to create a bowl that feels both rustic and refined. Hearty Chestnut Spinach and Green Pea Soup stands out for its naturally creamy texture without heavy cream and its deep, comforting flavor. This soup balances sweetness from chestnuts with fresh, leafy spinach and tender peas, making it nourishing and satisfying. Perfect for chilly evenings or light lunches, Hearty Chestnut Spinach and Green Pea Soup proves that simple ingredients can deliver big flavor. You’ll learn how to build layers of taste, achieve the perfect texture, and serve it beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hearty Chestnut Spinach and Green Pea Soup brings comfort without feeling heavy. The chestnuts create a velvety base, while peas add subtle sweetness and spinach delivers freshness. You get a contrast of creamy and lightly chunky textures in every spoonful. It’s easy to prepare in one pot, which means fewer dishes and less stress. The soup fits weeknight dinners, meal prep, or relaxed gatherings. It also adapts well to vegetarian and vegan diets with minimal swaps. The flavors deepen as it cooks, so it tastes like it simmered all day even when it didn’t. If you love cozy soups with balanced nutrition and a touch of elegance, this recipe will quickly earn a spot in your rotation.

Ingredients

For this Hearty Chestnut Spinach and Green Pea Soup, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients measured precisely for consistent results. Use 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml) for sautéing. Add 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped, and 3 garlic cloves, minced, for an aromatic base. Stir in 200 g cooked chestnuts, roughly chopped, which bring natural creaminess. Include 1 1/2 cups green peas (225 g), fresh or frozen, for sweetness. Pour in 4 cups vegetable broth (960 ml) for depth. Finish with 3 cups fresh spinach leaves (90 g), salt to taste, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Optional thyme or nutmeg enhances warmth.

Pro Tips

The first key to great Hearty Chestnut Spinach and Green Pea Soup lies in building flavor early. Sauté onions slowly until soft and lightly golden to release sweetness. Second, don’t rush the chestnuts. Let them warm in the pot before adding liquid so their flavor blooms. Third, control texture by blending partially. Pulse the soup until creamy but leave small chunks for interest. Always add spinach at the end so it stays bright and fresh. Taste before serving and adjust seasoning gradually. A splash of lemon juice can lift flavors without overpowering the soup.

Instructions

Step 1
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often, until soft and fragrant. This step sets the flavor foundation.

Step 2
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir constantly to avoid browning while releasing aroma.

Step 3
Stir in chopped chestnuts and green peas. Cook for 2 minutes so the ingredients warm evenly and begin to meld.

Step 4
Pour in vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat and cook uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to develop.

Step 5
Add spinach leaves and stir until just wilted, about 1 minute. Season with salt and black pepper.

Step 6
Use an immersion blender to blend about two-thirds of the soup. This keeps Hearty Chestnut Spinach and Green Pea Soup creamy with texture.

Step 7
Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with crusty bread or a light salad.

Variations

You can adapt Hearty Chestnut Spinach and Green Pea Soup easily. For extra protein, add white beans before blending. For a vegan twist with spice, stir in curry powder or cumin. Dairy lovers can swirl in a little cream or coconut milk for richness. Swap spinach for kale if you prefer a heartier green. Each variation keeps the soup comforting while adding a new personality.

Storage and Serving

Store Hearty Chestnut Spinach and Green Pea Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed. The soup also freezes well for up to 2 months. Serve it with toasted sourdough, garlic bread, or a simple grilled cheese. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of cracked pepper elevates presentation.

FAQs

Can I use canned chestnuts?
Yes, canned or vacuum-packed chestnuts work well. Drain them before use.

Is this soup vegan?
Yes, when made with vegetable broth, it’s fully vegan.

Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely. Flavors deepen after resting overnight.

How do I thicken the soup?
Blend more of the soup or add extra chestnuts.

Can I serve it cold?
It tastes best warm, but chilled servings work in summer.

Conclusion

This Hearty Chestnut Spinach and Green Pea Soup is comfort food at its finest — creamy, nourishing, and naturally flavorful with earthy chestnuts and vibrant greens. It’s the kind of dish that warms quiet evenings, supports healthy eating, and feels special without extra effort.