Rinse pea tenders and set aside a small handful for garnish (about 1/4 cup). If using fresh peas, shell them; if using frozen, measure frozen peas and keep them refrigerated until ready.

Sweat aromatics

In a medium saucepan, warm vegan butter or neutral oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced leek. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 6–8 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.

Cook peas

Add the peas and the packed pea tenders (reserve garnishing portion) to the pan and stir to combine with the aromatics. Pour in the vegetable stock, bring to a simmer, and cook until peas are tender and bright green, about 6–8 minutes for fresh peas (3–4 minutes for frozen).

Blend

Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and silky. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and purée until very smooth (take care with hot liquids). Return pureed soup to the pot.

Finish and season

Stir in the coconut or plant milk (if using) and lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper, taste and adjust acidity or seasoning. If the soup is too thick, add 1/4–1/2 cup additional vegetable stock or water to reach desired consistency. Keep warm on low heat, do not boil.

Herb Oil

Combine the olive oil, mint, parsley, chives, lemon zest and 1/4 tsp salt in a blender or food processor. Blend on high until the herbs are fully incorporated and the oil is bright green, about 30–60 seconds. Taste and adjust salt. If oil is too thick, add 1–2 tsp additional olive oil. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve for an extra-smooth oil (optional). Transfer to a small pourer.

Garnish & Serve

Ladle the hot soup into warmed bowls. Drizzle 1–2 teaspoons of herb oil over each portion. Place a few reserved pea tenders on top, sprinkle with toasted seeds if using, and finish with a light crack of black pepper.

Serve immediately. Leftover soup keeps covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently over low heat and stir in a splash of stock if needed.