This Cream of Fresh Asparagus Soup II is a rich, velvety, and comforting soup that highlights the fresh, earthy flavor of asparagus. Perfect for spring when asparagus is in season, this soup is both light and filling, making it an ideal choice for a cozy meal. The blend of asparagus, cream, and vegetable broth creates a silky texture, while the aromatics like onion and garlic enhance the flavor profile. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, this soup is sure to please with its delicate and fresh taste.

Full recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the asparagus: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the asparagus. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Make the roux: Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, forming a roux.
4. Add the broth: Slowly add the vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Blend the soup: Add the cooked asparagus to the pot, and bring the soup to a simmer. Once simmering, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, or transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
6. Add the cream: Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

The Health Benefits of Asparagus

Asparagus is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients that promote overall health. This vegetable is low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to maintain a healthy weight. Asparagus is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate, fiber, and antioxidants. The high fiber content aids digestion, while the vitamins support everything from immune function to skin health. Asparagus also contains glutathione, a potent antioxidant that plays a role in detoxification and immune health.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

There are many reasons to try making Cream of Fresh Asparagus Soup in your own kitchen. Here are just a few:

• Light yet Filling – The soup is light on the stomach yet filling enough to satisfy your hunger. The creamy texture helps make the soup indulgent, while still being relatively low in calories compared to many other creamy soups.
• Perfect for Spring – Asparagus is at its best in the spring, and this soup highlights its fresh, seasonal flavor. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the vegetable during its peak season.
• Easy to Make – The recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require a lot of time to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich, flavorful soup that feels like a special treat.
• Customizable – While this recipe is delicious on its own, it’s easily customizable. For a healthier option, use low-fat cream or milk instead of heavy cream. You can also add herbs like thyme, tarragon, or chives to elevate the flavor.
• Versatile – This soup can be served in a variety of ways. Serve it in small cups as an appetizer, or pair it with a crusty loaf of bread for a more filling meal.

The Secret to a Velvety Smooth Texture

One of the key elements that makes Cream of Fresh Asparagus Soup II so special is its smooth, velvety texture. Achieving this creamy consistency requires a few tricks:

• Using Fresh Asparagus – Fresh asparagus has a more pronounced flavor and smoother texture compared to its canned or frozen counterparts. The asparagus needs to be cooked until tender, then blended to create that silky texture.
• Creating a Roux – The base of this soup is a roux made from butter and flour, which acts as a thickener for the soup. This thickened base helps create a rich, creamy consistency without the need for excessive amounts of cream.
• Blending the Soup – The real magic happens when the soup is blended. Whether you use an immersion blender or a traditional blender, the goal is to turn the cooked asparagus into a smooth puree. Blending the soup well ensures that it has that luxurious, silky mouthfeel that makes it so indulgent.
• Adding Heavy Cream – Heavy cream is used to give the soup its richness and depth. It also adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the natural earthiness of the asparagus. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half, milk, or a dairy-free option like coconut cream.

Pairing Suggestions

This Cream of Fresh Asparagus Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, making it a versatile meal option. Here are some pairing ideas:

• Crusty Bread – Nothing complements a creamy soup better than a slice of warm, crusty bread. Try a sourdough, baguette, or artisan multigrain loaf. You can also make croutons by toasting cubes of bread and adding them as a garnish.
• Salads – Pairing this soup with a fresh, light salad makes for a well-rounded meal. Try a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or a Caesar salad for a richer contrast to the light soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – For a comfort food twist, pair the soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The melty, savory cheese complements the creamy texture of the soup and adds a fun contrast in flavors.
• Roasted Vegetables – To make your meal heartier, serve the soup alongside roasted vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes. The caramelized flavor of the vegetables will enhance the soup’s fresh, spring-like taste.

Variations of Cream of Fresh Asparagus Soup

While this recipe is already delicious, there are a few variations you can try to suit your preferences:

• Vegan Option – For a plant-based version, replace the butter with olive oil or coconut oil, and use coconut milk or almond milk in place of the cream. This will give the soup a slightly different but equally creamy texture without the dairy.
• Herbed Asparagus Soup – Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or tarragon to infuse the soup with even more flavor. These herbs complement the natural taste of asparagus and elevate the overall dish.
• Spicy Asparagus Soup – For those who like a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the soup. The spice adds an exciting contrast to the creamy soup and enhances the flavors of the asparagus.
• Cheese-Lover’s Asparagus Soup – Stir in some grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese to the soup for a cheesy twist. The melted cheese will make the soup even more decadent and add another layer of flavor.

Storing and Freezing Cream of Fresh Asparagus Soup

This soup can be easily stored and even frozen for later use:

• Refrigeration – Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to thin it out.
• Freezing – To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat on the stovetop. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but the soup will still be delicious.

Health Benefits of Cream of Fresh Asparagus Soup

This soup is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients that support your health:

• Rich in Vitamins – Asparagus is high in vitamins A, C, E, and K, which play important roles in supporting immunity, healthy skin, and bone health. These vitamins work together to promote overall wellness.
• Supports Digestive Health – The fiber content in asparagus supports digestive health by improving regularity and helping to maintain a healthy gut. Fiber also helps to regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
• Low in Calories – Asparagus is a low-calorie vegetable, making this soup a great choice for those watching their calorie intake. The soup is light but satisfying, and can easily be included in a balanced diet.
• Antioxidant Properties – Asparagus contains glutathione, an antioxidant that supports the body’s detoxification processes and protects cells from oxidative damage.

Conclusion

Cream of Fresh Asparagus Soup II is a perfect example of how simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create something special. The rich, creamy texture, coupled with the natural sweetness of asparagus, makes this soup a comforting and elegant dish for any occasion.