Cream of Asparagus Soup

This Cream of Asparagus Soup is a delightful blend of elegance and simplicity. Perfect for any occasion, it serves as a warm appetizer or a light meal. With its rich and creamy texture—achieved without heavy cream or flour—this soup stands out in both flavor and presentation. Packed with fresh spring ingredients, it’s sure to impress your guests or provide a cozy dinner option for family.

Why You’ll Love This Cream of Asparagus Soup

This soup is not just delicious; it brings several benefits to your table.

• Rich Flavor: The combination of sautéed onions, garlic, and asparagus creates a depth of flavor that is truly satisfying.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients, this recipe includes Greek yogurt for creaminess without the guilt.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer, a light lunch, or even as part of dinner.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup can be prepared in advance and stored, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Vibrant Color: The bright green color makes this soup visually appealing, adding freshness to your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make preparation easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• large Dutch oven
• high-powered blender
• cutting board
• sharp knife
• measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch Oven: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly without scorching.
• High-Powered Blender: Ensures a silky-smooth texture that elevates the dish beyond ordinary soups.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need for this delicious Cream of Asparagus Soup:

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
• 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 Enhancement

• 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 Onions and Garlic

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, so reduce the heat if necessary. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for about 30 seconds.

Step 2: Simmer Asparagus

Add the asparagus, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. If using dried dill and/or basil, add now; if using fresh herbs, hold them for later. Cover the pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 35-45 minutes or until the asparagus is very tender.

Step 3: Purée the Soup

Working in batches, transfer the soup to a high-powered blender. Purée until smooth while being careful to allow steam to escape to prevent pressure buildup (remove the fill cap and cover with a paper towel). Using a blender will give you a much smoother soup than an immersion blender but feel free to use one if desired.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Herbs

Transfer the pureed soup back to the pot and turn the heat to low. Stir in the Parmesan followed by fresh herbs until melted. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice until smooth. Finally, add Greek yogurt gently to achieve that velvety finish.

Step 5: Seasoning & Serving

Season to taste with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. If you’d like a thinner consistency, stir in additional broth. Serve warm for best flavor!

How to Serve Cream of Asparagus Soup

Cream of Asparagus Soup is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you want to present it as a starter or pair it with a main dish, these suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Starter

• A small bowl of soup can be served before the main course, offering a light and flavorful beginning to the meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve the soup alongside warm, crusty bread for dipping. The texture and flavor contrast create a comforting pairing.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top each bowl with fresh dill or basil for an aromatic finish that brightens up the rich flavors of the soup.

With a Dollop of Greek Yogurt

• Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess and tang. This enhances the overall richness and adds a beautiful presentation.

In a Bread Bowl

• Serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for an impressive and fun presentation. This also allows diners to enjoy the bread after finishing the soup.

Paired with Salad

• Complement your soup with a light salad. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this creamy soup.

How to Perfect Cream of Asparagus Soup

Creating the perfect Cream of Asparagus Soup requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for an even better result.

• Choose fresh asparagus – Fresh asparagus will provide better flavor and texture. Look for firm stalks with tight tips.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice to enhance flavors according to your preference.
• Blend thoroughly – For an ultra-smooth texture, blend until completely silky. This step is crucial for achieving that restaurant-quality finish.
• Use quality broth – A good low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth will significantly influence the depth of flavor in your soup.
• Serve hot – Enjoying this soup hot ensures you experience its full warmth and comforting qualities.
• Experiment with toppings – Try adding toasted nuts or croutons for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Best Side Dishes for Cream of Asparagus Soup

Pairing side dishes with Cream of Asparagus Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter provides a delicious accompaniment perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad brings crispness and tanginess that balances the creaminess of the soup well.
3. Quiche Lorraine – The rich flavors of quiche make it a satisfying partner alongside your asparagus soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition while complementing the flavors in your soup.
5. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can round out your meal beautifully, providing both variety and richness.
6. Pasta Salad – A light pasta salad dressed in olive oil can serve as a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy soup.
7. Stuffed Mushrooms – These bite-sized treats can add savory flavors that pair well with asparagus.
8. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil skewers offer brightness that enhances every spoonful of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cream of Asparagus Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Old Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is key to the flavor and texture of your soup. Always choose vibrant green stalks that snap easily.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking the asparagus too long can make it mushy and lose its bright color. Keep an eye on the simmer time for tender yet firm pieces.
• Not Blending Properly: To achieve a silky soup, blend well. If you skip this step or use an immersion blender, the texture might not be as smooth.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving! Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice to enhance the flavors; under-seasoning can leave your soup bland.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add brightness and depth to your soup. If you use dried herbs instead, do so sparingly as their flavor is more concentrated.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Cream of Asparagus Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it to prevent condensation.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze your soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in the container for expansion while freezing.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently until heated thoroughly; add broth if it’s too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make Cream of Asparagus Soup vegan?

You can replace dairy ingredients such as Greek yogurt and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream and nutritional yeast for a vegan version.

What should I serve with my Cream of Asparagus Soup?

This delightful soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. You could also enjoy it as an appetizer alongside your favorite main dish.

Can I use frozen asparagus for this Cream of Asparagus Soup?

Yes, frozen asparagus works well! Just make sure to thaw it first and adjust cooking times as needed since it may cook faster than fresh asparagus.

How do I store leftover Cream of Asparagus Soup?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for later enjoyment.

What’s the best way to customize Cream of Asparagus Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or spinach, or spices like cumin for added flavor. You can also adjust the creaminess by varying the amount of Greek yogurt used.

Final Thoughts

This Cream of Asparagus Soup is not only elegant but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it perfect as an appetizer or main dish. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite herbs or spices; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!