Pea Soup with Mint and Canadian Bacon

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and Canadian bacon (or smoked paprika if vegan) and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and the bacon is lightly browned.

Add the frozen peas and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the peas are tender.

Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh mint and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth (be cautious when blending hot liquids).

Return the soup to the pot and heat gently if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra fresh mint leaves.