Begin the adventure by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion and if you choose the optional garlic, mince it as well. Ensure your peas are ready to go – if they're frozen, a quick thaw will do.

In a medium pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion (and garlic, if you’re using it). Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 4-5 minutes. The fragrant aroma should start filling your kitchen, which is a good sign.

Now, let’s introduce the stars of the show. Add the peas to the pot along with the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes. This will allow the peas to cook through and absorb all the wonderful flavors.

Once the peas are tender, remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a regular blender in batches. Just be cautious—hot liquids and blenders require some finesse.

Return the soup to the pot if you used a standard blender. Stir in the chopped mint, lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to rest for a minute to let the flavors meld.

Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of crème fraîche. Add a sprinkle of additional mint if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy while warm!