Indulge in the comforting embrace of "Mom's Creamy Asparagus Soup," a delightful dish that brings a taste of home right to your table! This luscious soup, bursting with fresh asparagus and a rich, velvety texture, is perfect for any occasion—whether you're warming up on a chilly evening or impressing guests at a dinner party. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a mere 40 minutes of your time, you can create a bowl of pure bliss that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your culinary skills and savor the flavors of spring? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the asparagus by washing thoroughly and trimming off the tough woody ends. Chop the asparagus into 1-inch pieces, separating the tender tips from the stems.
- In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Add the chopped asparagus stems (reserving the tips for later) to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing them to slightly soften.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the asparagus stems are completely tender.
- Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a standard blender, carefully transfer the mixture in batches.
- Return the pot to low heat and stir in the heavy cream, creating a rich and velvety texture. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the reserved asparagus tips to the soup and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle into warm bowls and garnish with a drizzle of cream or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Asparagus: For the best flavor, select firm, vibrant green asparagus with tightly closed tips. Freshness makes a noticeable difference in taste!
- Sauté Gently: When cooking the onions and garlic, keep the heat moderate to avoid burning. This will ensure a sweet, aromatic base for your soup.
- Use an Immersion Blender: For a super smooth texture, an immersion blender is your best friend. It allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot, minimizing cleanup.
- Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream to suit your taste. For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream with additional vegetable broth.
- Garnish Creatively: Elevate your presentation by garnishing with a drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added color and flavor.
- Serve Warm: This soup is best enjoyed warm, so ladle it into bowls just before serving for a comforting experience.
- Pair It Right: Complement your soup with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal that delights the senses.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 45mg
