Fresh Pea Soup

If fresh late spring peas are available, substitute for the frozen peas. This chilled soup tastes of springtime, and makes a perfect first course before an elegant ham dinner.

Recipe Ingredients:

1 pound fresh peas, shelled (or 10-ounce package frozen green peas)
2 green onions, chopped
1/8 teaspoon thyme
Pinch of sugar
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
Nutmeg, freshly grated to garnish
Shredded carrot, to garnish

Cooking Directions:

1. Place peas, green onion, thyme, sugar and broth in medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer 10 minutes. Let mixture cool slightly.
2. Purée, in batches, in food processor or blender. Stir in milk, season with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate 4 hours or overnight. Garnish servings with freshly grated nutmeg and shredded carrot.

Makes 8 (1/2 cup) servings.

Recipe provided courtesy of National Pork Board.