Introduction

Asparagus soup is a delightful and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed guilt-free. This creamy yet light soup is perfect for a cozy evening or as a starter for your dinner party. With the fresh taste of asparagus and a minimal amount of ingredients, this soup is as easy to make as it is delicious.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Asparagus – 1 pound
Onion – 1 medium, chopped
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Vegetable broth – 4 cups
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) – for garnish

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time – 20 minutes
Total time – 30 minutes
Yield – 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Asparagus

Begin by trimming the tough ends of the asparagus. You can snap them off by bending the stalks gently; they will naturally break where the tender part begins. Rinse the asparagus under cold water to remove any dirt.

Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they are translucent. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn.

Add Asparagus and Broth

Stir the prepared asparagus into the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring that the asparagus is fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the asparagus is tender.

Blend the Soup

After the asparagus is tender, remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender. Make sure to allow some steam to escape to avoid splattering.

Season the Soup

Once the soup is blended, return it to low heat. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as necessary, keeping in mind that adding more lemon juice can enhance the soup’s freshness.

Serve the Soup

Ladle the soup into bowls. Optionally, garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.

Notes

Choosing Asparagus

Select firm, bright green asparagus stalks with tight tips for the best flavor and texture. Thin ones are sweeter and tender, while thicker ones will be more robust.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth if it has thickened.

Vegan Option

This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable broth. Make sure to check any additional toppings or garnishes for dairy if maintaining strict vegan criteria.

Using Fresh vs. Frozen Asparagus

While fresh asparagus is recommended, you can also use frozen asparagus. Just be mindful that the cooking time may vary slightly due to the pre-cooked nature of frozen vegetables.

Cook Techniques

Blanching Asparagus

Blanch the asparagus by boiling it briefly and then plunging it into ice water to maintain its vibrant color and crisp texture before blending.

Sautéing Aromatics

Sauté garlic and onion in olive oil until softened to create a flavorful base for the soup.

Blending the Soup

Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth, achieving a creamy consistency without adding cream.

Seasoning to Taste

Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to enhance the flavors of the soup before serving.

Garnishing

Top the soup with a drizzle of olive oil and freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor and presentation.

FAQ

Can I use frozen asparagus for the soup?

Yes, frozen asparagus can be used. Just ensure it is thoroughly thawed and drained.

How can I make this soup vegan?

This soup is naturally vegan. Just ensure that the ingredients used, such as broth, are plant-based.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

How long can I store the soup?

The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze the asparagus soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

Conclusion

The guilt-free asparagus soup is a simple yet delightful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its fresh flavor and creamy texture make it a satisfying choice, allowing you to enjoy a healthy meal without compromising on taste.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Asparagus and Pea Soup

Combine tender asparagus with sweet peas for a vibrant and nutritious soup that is rich in flavor.

Creamy Broccoli Soup

Substitute asparagus with broccoli to create a creamy, comforting soup that is equally as healthy and delicious.

Spinach and Asparagus Soup

Add fresh spinach to your asparagus soup for extra nutrients and a boost of color.

Herbed Vegetable Soup

Incorporate a variety of vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and herbs to enhance the flavors of your soup even more.

Asparagus Soup with Lemon

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors of your asparagus soup, adding a refreshing zest.

Chilled Asparagus Soup

For a refreshing summer dish, serve your asparagus soup chilled and garnished with fresh herbs.

Asparagus and Potato Chowder

Combine asparagus with potatoes for a hearty, comforting chowder that is perfect for cooler days.