Description
Cream of Asparagus Soup is a delightful fusion of fresh flavors that evokes the essence of spring. This creamy yet guilt-free soup is crafted without heavy cream or flour, making it a perfect choice for any occasion—be it a warm appetizer, light lunch, or elegant dinner. The vibrant taste of asparagus combined with the richness of Parmesan and the freshness of herbs creates a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. Easy to prepare and versatile enough to impress your guests, this soup invites creativity in serving and flavor enhancements.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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 teaspoon EACH pepper, dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon EACH minced fresh dill, minced fresh basil (may sub 1 teaspoon 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)
Instructions
- Melt the butter in the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 10 minutes. Ensure they don't brown; reduce heat if necessary.
- Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for another 30 seconds.
- Add the asparagus pieces along with chicken broth, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. If using dried dill or basil, add them at this stage; if using fresh herbs, hold them for later. Cover the pot and bring to a boil before reducing heat to low.
- Simmer for 35-45 minutes until the asparagus is very tender.
- Working in batches, transfer the soup mixture to a high-powered blender. Purée until smooth while allowing steam to escape—be cautious as hot liquid can cause explosions!
- Return the pureed soup back to your pot over low heat. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese followed by fresh herbs until melted through. Remove from heat then stir in lemon juice for brightness along with Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Taste your delicious soup and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. If you prefer a thinner consistency, stir in more broth until desired texture is achieved.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delightful Cream of Asparagus Soup!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg