Make this simple, silky smooth asparagus soup using fresh spring vegetables. It is quick to prepare and perfect as a light lunch or elegant appetizer.
Author:leogrant
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:25 min
Total Time:40 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Soup
Method:Stovetop Simmering
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1.5 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut (reserve tips for garnish)
4 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup milk or half-and-half (or unsweetened soy milk for dairy-free)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the chopped asparagus stalks (not the tips) and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the asparagus is tender, about 10-15 minutes.
While the soup simmers, blanch the reserved asparagus tips in boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop cooking. Set aside for garnish.
Carefully transfer the soup mixture to a blender, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
Return the pureed soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the milk (or dairy-free alternative) and Parmesan cheese, if using. Heat through, but do not boil.
Season the soup with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning to your preference.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with the reserved asparagus tips and an extra sprinkle of pepper.
Notes
For a richer flavor, roast the asparagus for 15 minutes at 400°F before adding it to the broth.
If you want a thicker soup, use less broth initially and add more as needed during the blending stage.
This recipe is excellent for meal prep and keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days.