Spring Pea Soup Turkey Ham (Printable Version)

A light vibrant pea soup featuring tender turkey ham and fresh herbs for a wholesome dish.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 4 cups fresh or frozen green peas
06 - 1 medium Yukon Gold potato, peeled and diced

→ Meats

07 - 1 cup turkey ham, diced

→ Liquids

08 - 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
09 - 1/2 cup whole milk (optional, for creaminess)

→ Seasonings

10 - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
12 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
13 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

→ Garnish

14 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
15 - Extra turkey ham, diced and sautéed (optional)

# How-To:

01 - In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and celery, and sauté for 4 minutes until softened.
02 - Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add the diced turkey ham and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
04 - Add the peas, potato, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
05 - Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 15-18 minutes, until the potato is tender.
06 - Remove from heat. If using, stir in the milk for a creamier texture.
07 - Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth, or leave a few chunks for texture if desired. Alternatively, blend in batches in a countertop blender and return to the pot.
08 - Stir in the lemon juice, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped chives and extra sautéed turkey ham if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It comes together in under 45 minutes but tastes like you simmered it all afternoon
  • The turkey ham adds a smoky depth without being heavy or overwhelming the peas natural sweetness
  • Perfect for those days when you want something nourishing but not weighed down by heavy cream
02 -
  • The potato is not optional for the right texture it breaks down as it cooks and naturally thickens the soup without making it starchy
  • Do not skip the lemon juice as it is the secret ingredient that lifts all the flavors and makes the soup taste bright
  • If you plan to freeze this soup leave out the milk and add it when you reheat for the best texture
03 -
  • Use frozen peas in the off season for consistent sweetness and convenience as they are picked at peak freshness
  • If using a countertop blender fill it only halfway and remove the center cap to let steam escape covering the opening with a folded towel