Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Ingredients

　　three 10-ounce packages frozen peas, thawed

　　1/3 cup fresh mint leaves plus fresh mint sprigs for garnish if desired

　　3 tablespoons half-and-half, or to taste

　　3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into bits

　　In a large saucepan combine the peas with 1/4 cup water and the mint leaves and boil the mixture, covered, for 4 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Drain the mixture well and in a food processor purée it with the half-and-half, the butter, and salt and pepper to taste. The purée may be made 1 day in advance, kept covered and chilled, and reheated. Transfer the purée to a serving dish and garnish it with the mint sprigs.