Frozen vegetables are a great way to get all of the benefits of fresh. Usually picked at their peak and promptly frozen, the freezer is a great place to look for "fresh" veggies this time of year.

Vegetable Bisque sounds complicated and fussy but it is so easy to whip up and so delicious. Plus, it's a yummy way to get kids to eat something green!

Note: This works well with asparagus (frozen works!) as well and no doubt other veggies.

2 T unsalted butter

1 onion minced

½ t salt

2 T flour

4 c chicken broth (I love Better than Bouillon)

1 ½ lb frozen peas thawed

½ c *heavy cream (or ½ and ½)

Melt butter over med heat.  Add onion and salt.  Cook till onion is softened, about 5 min. Add flour and cook for 1 min while stirring; slowly add broth.  Bring to simmer and cook for 5 min.

Add peas and simmer until tender, 7-10 min. Puree soup in batches in blender or food processor.

Return soup to pot and stir in cream.  Bring to brief simmer.  Salt and pepper to taste.

* If you'd like to cut calories you can replace the heavy cream with evaporated (canned) milk.