Cream of Asparagus Soup

This Cream of Asparagus Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this soup is both elegant and comforting. It features fresh asparagus, aromatic herbs, and a creamy texture without the heaviness of traditional recipes. Enjoy it as an appetizer or a light meal, and experience the taste of spring with every spoonful!

Why You’ll Love This Cream of Asparagus Soup

This recipe is sure to impress while being incredibly easy to prepare.

• Healthier Choice: Made without heavy cream or flour, this soup offers a guilt-free indulgence.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh asparagus and herbs elevates the flavor profile, making each bowl taste vibrant and refreshing.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer, lunch, or dinner, this soup fits seamlessly into various meal plans.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this soup in advance and reheat it for a quick weeknight meal.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: With its rich and creamy texture, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference when preparing your Cream of Asparagus Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven
• High-powered blender
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and simmering your ingredients to perfection without burning.
• High-powered blender: Essential for achieving that silky-smooth texture that makes the soup so enjoyable.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife allows for easy chopping of vegetables, ensuring uniform cooking.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 medium yellow onions (chopped)
• 4-6 cloves garlic (minced)
• pinch red pepper flakes

For the Soup

• 2 bunches asparagus (about 2 pounds) (woody ends discarded, cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (may sub vegetable broth)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 tsp EACH pepper, dried thyme

For Flavor

• 1 TBS EACH minced fresh dill, minced fresh basil (may sub 1 tsp EACH dried)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 cup 2% or full fat Greek yogurt (do not use fat free or it’s likely to curdle)

How to Make Cream of Asparagus Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Melt the butter in the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 10 minutes. We are sweating the onions; they shouldn’t brown. Reduce heat if necessary. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for about 30 seconds.

Step 2: Simmer the Asparagus

Add the asparagus pieces, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. If using dried dill or basil, add them now; if using fresh herbs, hold them for later. Cover and bring to a boil before reducing heat to low. Simmer for 35-45 minutes until the asparagus is very tender.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

Working in batches, transfer the soup to a high-powered blender. Purée until smooth while being careful to let steam escape to avoid pressure build-up (remove fill cap and cover with a paper towel). Using a blender will yield a much smoother result compared to an immersion blender.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheese and Herbs

Transfer the pureed soup back to the pot over low heat. Add the Parmesan cheese first, followed by any fresh herbs you’ve set aside; stir until melted. Remove from heat and mix in lemon juice until smooth along with Greek yogurt.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

Season to taste with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired. If you prefer a thinner soup consistency, stir in more broth. Serve warm.

How to Serve Cream of Asparagus Soup

Cream of Asparagus Soup is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a comforting lunch, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

In a Bread Bowl

• A freshly baked bread bowl adds a rustic touch. Simply hollow out the center of a round loaf and pour in the warm soup.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair it with crusty artisan bread for dipping. The bread’s texture complements the creamy soup beautifully.

Topped with Croutons

• Add homemade croutons for crunch. Toast some bread cubes in olive oil and seasoning until golden brown.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Enhance the presentation with a sprinkle of fresh dill or basil on top just before serving.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances flavor and adds a glossy finish to the soup.

Served Chilled

• For warmer months, enjoy the soup chilled. Let it cool, then refrigerate before serving for a refreshing twist.

How to Perfect Cream of Asparagus Soup

To ensure your Cream of Asparagus Soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use fresh asparagus: Fresh asparagus yields a brighter flavor and vibrant color in your soup.
• Don’t rush the onions: Cooking onions slowly allows them to release their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Blend thoroughly: For an ultra-smooth texture, blend the soup well. A high-powered blender works best for this.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed to balance flavors.
• Opt for full-fat yogurt: Using full-fat Greek yogurt prevents curdling and adds creaminess without heavy cream.
• Try different herbs: Experimenting with other herbs like thyme or chives can give your soup a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Cream of Asparagus Soup

A delicious side dish can complement your Cream of Asparagus Soup beautifully. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread pairs perfectly with creamy soups.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup nicely.
3. Quiche Lorraine: This savory pie is hearty enough to serve alongside your creamy soup, making it filling.
4. Cheese Platter: Offer an assortment of cheeses that guests can nibble on between spoonfuls of soup.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats add an earthy flavor that complements asparagus well.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add color and nutrition, enhancing your meal’s appeal.
7. Savory Scones: Cheese or herb scones provide a delightful pairing with each bowl of soup.
8. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad brings in additional textures and flavors without overwhelming the palate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cream of Asparagus Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not using fresh asparagus – Fresh asparagus yields the best flavor and texture. Avoid old or limp stalks for a vibrant soup.
• Overcooking the onions – Cooking the onions too long can lead to browning. Aim for soft and translucent without color for the best base.
• Skipping the purée step – For a silky soup, don’t skip puréeing. This process is essential for achieving that creamy texture without heavy cream.
• Adding yogurt too early – If you add Greek yogurt while the soup is still hot, it may curdle. Allow the soup to cool slightly before mixing in the yogurt.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – The flavors develop as it cooks, so taste and adjust seasoning before serving. This ensures a well-balanced soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Cream of Asparagus Soup will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instructions

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave space for expansion.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in short increments (1-2 minutes), stirring in between to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop – Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cream of Asparagus Soup vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Cream of Asparagus Soup?

You can add more herbs like thyme or parsley, or even a splash of white wine during cooking for extra depth.

Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?

While fresh asparagus is preferred, frozen asparagus can be used in a pinch. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

What can I serve with Cream of Asparagus Soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even as a starter before a light main course.

How do I store leftover Cream of Asparagus Soup?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Cream of Asparagus Soup is not only delicious but also versatile and guilt-free! Its creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it perfect as an appetizer or light meal. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or adjusting seasonings based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of spring!