Name: Cream of Asparagus Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half); 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

As you enter the kitchen, a wave of earthy aromas fills the air, teasing your senses with a promise of something special. Imagine a bowl of Cream of Asparagus Soup, its vibrant green hue beckoning like a friendly wave from your favorite vegetable. The silky texture glides over your tongue, while the subtle nuttiness of roasted asparagus dances in harmony with hints of cream and garlic.

This delightful dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia. Picture this: a rainy day spent inside, warm socks on, and a steaming bowl of creamy goodness to chase away the chill. It’s the perfect companion for cozy evenings or elegant gatherings where you want to impress your guests without breaking a sweat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Cream of Asparagus Soup is simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Its rich flavor profile balances earthy asparagus with creamy undertones, creating a comforting bowl of joy.
Visually stunning with its vibrant green color, this soup is sure to wow your dinner guests.
Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or main course, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread.

Ingredients for Cream of Asparagus Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Asparagus: Choose bright green stalks that are firm and tender; they should snap easily when bent.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; go for yellow onions for their balanced flavor.
Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for maximum flavor; they add aromatic goodness that elevates the soup.
Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to keep the flavors bright without overwhelming saltiness.
Cream: Heavy cream provides that luxurious richness; feel free to substitute half-and-half if desired.
Olive Oil: This will be used to sauté the onions and garlic, adding depth and richness.

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: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle in some olive oil. Toss in diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant and translucent—about five minutes—while resisting the urge to eat all the onions before they hit the soup.

Step 2: Add Asparagus

Chop your fresh asparagus into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about three minutes until they start softening.

Step 3: Pour in Broth

Add vegetable broth into the pot, ensuring all vegetables are submerged in liquid goodness. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for ten minutes until everything is tender.

Step 4: Blend It Up

Carefully transfer your mixture into a blender (or use an immersion blender). Blend until smooth and creamy—this is when you’ll realize how much fun it is to make soup! If it’s too thick for your liking, add extra broth or water.

Step 5: Stir in Cream

Return the blended soup back into the pot over low heat. Slowly stir in heavy cream, allowing it to meld with those delicious flavors for another five minutes while you contemplate life choices or just enjoy that amazing aroma.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Ladle your beautiful Cream of Asparagus Soup into bowls. Add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or even some croutons if you’re feeling fancy! Pair it with crusty bread for an ultimate cozy meal experience.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every last spoonful while basking in your culinary triumph!

You Must Know

This delightful cream of asparagus soup is not just a comforting dish; it’s an experience!
Silky, smooth, and bursting with flavor, it transforms any ordinary day into a gourmet occasion.
Perfect for springtime gatherings or cozy nights in.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then, toss in the asparagus and cook until tender. Pour in the broth, let it simmer, and finish by blending until creamy. This sequence ensures every flavor shines while saving you time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out asparagus for broccoli or spinach if you’re feeling adventurous. Experiment with spices like nutmeg or paprika to elevate the taste. You can also add a splash of cream for extra richness or top with crispy croutons for crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover cream of asparagus soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to keep it creamy and delicious.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always select fresh asparagus; it makes all the difference in flavor and texture.
Blend your soup thoroughly for that luxurious creaminess everyone loves.
Lastly, taste as you go to adjust seasoning perfectly!

I remember the first time I made this cream of asparagus soup for my family; their faces lit up like kids on Christmas morning! It quickly became a household favorite that brings everyone together.

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Cream of Asparagus Soup?

To make a delicious Cream of Asparagus Soup, you will need fresh asparagus, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include lemon juice for added brightness and herbs like thyme or dill to enhance the flavor. Using fresh asparagus is key for a vibrant taste and color. You can also substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a vegan alternative for a lighter version. Preparing these ingredients properly will set you up for a successful cooking experience.

How long does it take to prepare Cream of Asparagus Soup?

Preparing Cream of Asparagus Soup typically takes about 10 minutes for chopping vegetables and another 20-25 minutes for cooking. Overall, you can expect the entire process to take around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. This quick cooking time makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. The fast preparation does not compromise the rich flavors that this soup offers, ensuring that you can enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Can I freeze Cream of Asparagus Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Cream of Asparagus Soup! To maintain its best quality, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It’s recommended to leave some space at the top of the container as the soup may expand when frozen. Properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove.

What are some variations of Cream of Asparagus Soup?

There are many delicious variations of Cream of Asparagus Soup that you can try! For instance, consider adding potatoes for a thicker texture or incorporating other vegetables like peas or leeks for added flavor complexity. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices such as basil or cayenne pepper to customize your recipe further. For a unique twist, try blending in some avocado for creaminess while boosting nutritional value. These variations allow you to adapt the soup to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion for Cream of Asparagus Soup :

In summary, Cream of Asparagus Soup is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients with simple techniques to create a flavorful meal. With its quick preparation time and versatility in flavors, this soup is perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize it based on your dietary needs or personal preferences by using various herbs and vegetables. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or an elegant starter at dinner parties, this creamy soup is sure to impress your guests and family alike.