As the sun begins to peek through the clouds and the scent of spring fills the air, nothing quite says “welcome back, sunshine” like a warm bowl of Cream of Asparagus Soup. This velvety delight, with its rich green color and tantalizing aroma, is like a hug in a bowl. sundried tomato pasta Imagine spooning up silky goodness while basking in that rare moment when your kitchen smells better than your neighbor’s freshly baked cookies.
But this isn’t just any soup; it’s a culinary throwback to childhood memories spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. I can still hear her laughter as she tossed asparagus into bubbling broth, claiming it would make us all grow taller (though, at five-foot-two, I can confirm it didn’t work for me). Perfect for brunch with friends or a quiet dinner alone, this Cream of Asparagus Soup promises to elevate any occasion and leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cream of Asparagus Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dish.
- Its flavor profile is a delightful balance of earthy asparagus with hints of creaminess and herbs.
- The vibrant green color makes it visually appealing and an instant mood booster.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve hot or chilled based on your preference.
Ingredients for Cream of Asparagus Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Asparagus: Look for bright green stalks free of blemishes; they should snap easily when bent.
- Onion: A medium yellow onion works best for a sweet undertone that enhances the soup.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; avoid using pre-minced garlic for maximum flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe.
- Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth so you can adjust the seasoning later.
- Cream: Heavy cream gives the soup its signature richness; half-and-half can be used for a lighter option.
- Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil is perfect for sautéing the veggies and adds flavor. perfect grilled veggie skewers.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cream of Asparagus Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by washing and trimming the asparagus stalks. Cut them into bite-sized pieces (about two inches long) so they cook evenly. Chop the onion and mince the garlic while you’re at it—just don’t start crying over those onions!
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle about two tablespoons of olive oil. Add in your chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring until they become fragrant and translucent—about five minutes. You know they are ready when your kitchen starts smelling like an Italian restaurant.
Step 3: Add Asparagus
Toss in those beautiful asparagus pieces along with about four cups of vegetable broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil and let it simmer for about ten minutes or until the asparagus is tender but still vibrant green.
Step 4: Blend It Up
Carefully transfer the soup mixture into a blender (or use an immersion blender if you’re feeling fancy). Blend until smooth—this may take about two minutes. If you prefer some texture, feel free to hold back a few pieces of asparagus before blending.
Step 5: Stir in Cream
Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat. Now comes the magic! Slowly stir in about one cup of heavy cream (or half-and-half), mixing until well combined. Let it heat through without boiling—nobody likes curdled cream!
Step 6: Season and Serve
Take a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed; it’s essential! Ladle into bowls and garnish with additional asparagus tips or even some croutons if you’re feeling extra gourmet today.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every sip while reminiscing about those sunny days ahead!
You Must Know
- Cream of asparagus soup is not just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
- This creamy delight provides rich flavors while being simple enough for even the most novice cooks.
- You’ll impress your guests in no time with this elegant yet easy recipe.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions until they’re translucent, then add garlic and cook until fragrant. Next, toss in chopped asparagus and stock, bringing everything to a simmer. Lastly, blend until smooth for that velvety texture everyone loves.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap asparagus for broccoli or peas if you’re feeling adventurous. Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness or sprinkle some cheese on top just before serving for that extra creamy goodness.
Storing & Reheating
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain that perfect consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh asparagus for the best flavor; frozen can be watery and ruin your silky soup.
- Blend thoroughly to eliminate any chunks; nobody wants a chunky soup!
- Always taste before serving—seasoning can make or break your perfect bowl.
The first time I made cream of asparagus soup, my friends thought I was some sort of culinary wizard. Little did they know, it was just me and a blender doing all the magic!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Cream of Asparagus Soup?
To make a delightful Cream of Asparagus Soup, you will need fresh asparagus, onion, garlic, vegetable or chicken broth, heavy cream, and seasonings like salt and pepper. You may also want to add some lemon juice for brightness and a pinch of nutmeg for depth. zesty grilled lemon chicken If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, ensure the broth is vegetable-based. Using high-quality asparagus makes a significant difference in flavor. Gather these ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process.
How long does it take to prepare Cream of Asparagus Soup?
Preparing Cream of Asparagus Soup typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes roughly 10 minutes for chopping your vegetables and another 20 minutes for cooking. If you are using fresh asparagus, it might take a little longer to clean and cut them. However, the cooking time is relatively quick as you’ll be simmering the ingredients before blending them until smooth. It’s an efficient recipe that delivers rich flavor in no time. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Can I freeze Cream of Asparagus Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Cream of Asparagus Soup! After making the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Ensure to leave some space at the top of the container as liquids expand when frozen. The soup can last in the freezer for up to three months without losing its taste or texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat.
What can I serve with Cream of Asparagus Soup?
Cream of Asparagus Soup pairs well with various dishes that enhance its flavors. A crusty piece of bread or a baguette makes an excellent side for dipping. You could also serve it alongside a refreshing salad or grilled cheese sandwich for a hearty meal. For added elegance, consider garnishing your soup with croutons or a drizzle of olive oil. These additions elevate your dining experience while complementing the creamy texture of the soup.
Conclusion for Cream of Asparagus Soup :
In conclusion, Cream of Asparagus Soup is a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for any season. With fresh asparagus as the star ingredient, this soup offers rich flavors enhanced by simple seasonings and creaminess. The preparation time is quick, making it suitable for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with complementary sides, this soup is sure to impress family and friends alike while being easy on your schedule and palate.
Cream of Asparagus Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cream of Asparagus Soup is a creamy, velvety dish that brings the essence of spring to your table. This easy-to-make recipe features fresh asparagus blended with aromatic garlic and onion, resulting in a comforting and satisfying experience. Perfect for both cozy dinners or elegant brunches, this soup can be served hot or chilled, making it versatile and delightful no matter the occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by washing and cutting the asparagus, chopping the onion, and mincing the garlic.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add asparagus pieces and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil and simmer for about 10 minutes until asparagus is tender.
- Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender.
- Return the blended soup to low heat; stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional asparagus tips or croutons if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: For added brightness, squeeze in some lemon juice before serving. Substitute asparagus with broccoli or peas for a different flavor profile. Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to three months.
