Bacon, Pea, Lettuce & Herb Soup

Serves 4

1 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

125g bacon bits, or chopped bacon

1 small head of lettuce or bag of mixed leaves,

torn into pieces (approx 150g)*

300g frozen peas

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

2 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped

650ml bacon or vegetable stock (made using 2 stock cubes)

100ml single cream OR 1 tbsp crème fraîche

Salt & freshly ground black pepper

* I save lettuce that I know won't be used up in time in the freezer until I have enough to make this soup - use it straight from frozen.

1.  Heat the oil in a pan, add the bacon and onion and cook for a few minutes until the onion is soft. 

2.  Add the peas and lettuce, cook gently until the lettuce has wilted.

3.  Add the herbs and cook for a minute, then add the stock and simmer gently for 3 minutes or so, uncovered.

4.  Remove from the heat, take out 2-3 ladlefuls and set aside in a bowl. Whizz the remaining soup until smooth.

5.  Return the set-aside soup to the blended soup in the pan, and reheat for 3 minutes. 

6.  Stir in the cream/crème fraîche and season with salt and pepper. Heat gently for 2 minutes, then serve with fresh, crusty bread.