(Because Caffeine Can’t Do All the Work)
Some days your brain needs a little nudge—you know, when you’re staring at your to-do list like it personally offended you? That’s when this vibrant, zingy Pea & Mint Brain-Boosting Soup comes in.
It’s solo-friendly, freezer-ingredient-based, and ready in under 10 minutes. And best of all? It’s bright green, which practically screams “I take care of myself!” even if the only reason you chose peas is because you forgot to defrost anything else.
🧠 Why This Soup Works: Focus Fuel for Your Brain
This isn’t just a pretty green bowl. It’s loaded with folate, B vitamins, and fibre—nutrients your brain literally uses to focus, process, and stay sharp.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Green peas are high in folate, vitamin B6, and fibre—all linked to brain function, memory, and mood regulation.
- Mint is naturally stimulating and can boost alertness and digestion.
- Lemon juice adds vitamin C, which helps your body absorb all that lovely green goodness.
- Vegetable stock keeps it light, hydrating, and digestively gentle.
Perfect for a solo lunch before work, study, or just powering through your inbox like the functional adult you aspire to be.
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 1)
No need for a complicated shopping list—these live in most freezers and window herb boxes:
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup vegetable stock (low-salt preferred)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh mint (or ½ tsp dried)
- Squeeze of lemon juice (about 1 tsp)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
🧂 Optional topper: A dollop of yoghurt, swirl of olive oil, or a few crunchy pumpkin seeds for texture.
🥄 Instructions (Ready Before Your Brain Fog Clears)
- Simmer the peas in vegetable stock for 4–5 minutes, or until tender and bright green.
- Blend the peas and stock with mint and lemon juice until smooth and vibrant. Use a stick blender or transfer to a small blender jug.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot… or let it chill in the fridge if you’re in the mood for something refreshing.
🧊 Bonus: This soup is just as good cold, especially on warm days or when chewing feels like too much effort.
🔬 Nutritional Highlights (Per Serve)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~130 kcal |
| Protein | ~6g |
| Fibre | ~5g |
| Folate | ~30% RDI |
| Hero Nutrients | Folate, vitamin B6, vitamin C, iron (non-heme) |
🧠 Brain food bonus: Folate supports neurotransmitter production (aka your brain’s messaging system). If you’ve been feeling foggy, forgetful, or low energy—this soup’s got your back.
🌿 Tips, Swaps & Fancy Upgrades
- No fresh mint?
Use a pinch of dried mint, fresh basil, or parsley. Or leave it out entirely if you prefer a more mellow green vibe. - Want it creamy?
Add a splash of oat milk, a spoon of ricotta, or swirl in some Greek yoghurt after blending. - More protein, please:
Stir through silken tofu before blending or top with a soft-boiled egg. - Make it meal-worthy:
Pair with a slice of wholegrain toast, some rice crackers and hummus, or a boiled potato for a more filling meal. - Reheat like a pro:
If serving cold, let it sit at room temp for 10 minutes first—too cold can mute the flavours. If reheating, don’t boil—just warm gently to preserve nutrients.
📚 Why I Call This the “Brain Fog Begone” Bowl
This soup is my go-to when:
- I’ve had too much coffee and not enough nutrients
- I need to focus and my brain’s buffering like an old YouTube video
- I want to eat something bright, healthy, and fast without turning on the oven
- It’s 3pm and I’m thinking about toast and regret
And honestly? It’s just nice to eat something green that doesn’t involve washing kale.
💬 What’s Your Favourite Brain Food?
Are you a green soup convert? Do you swear by blueberries, salmon, or just screaming into a pillow?
👇 Drop your favourite brain-boosting solo meals in the comments.
👇 And subscribe to the Plan4One solo soup series for more feel-good, easy-cook, feel-smug bowls.
