Cream of Asparagus Soup

Introducing our delightful Cream of Asparagus Soup, a comforting and velvety dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of fresh asparagus. This soup is a celebration of springtime, with tender asparagus as the star ingredient. Each spoonful is a symphony of flavors, from the earthy sweetness of the asparagus to the subtle hints of garlic and coriander.

Crafted with care, this recipe begins with the steaming of asparagus until tender, then blending it into a smooth puree that forms the base of the soup. The addition of sautéed onions and garlic adds depth and aroma, while a creamy mixture of half-and-half creates a luscious texture that’s both rich and satisfying.

Perfectly seasoned with kosher salt, ground coriander, and a touch of black pepper, this soup is a true delight for the taste buds. Garnished with reserved asparagus tips, it’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or an elegant starter to a dinner party, our Cream of Asparagus Soup is sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Cream of Asparagus Soup

Ingredients:

1 lb. asparagus, ends trimmed

1 tsp. kosher salt, plus more to taste

3 Tbsp. salted butter

1/2 onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour

2 c. half-and-half

1/2 tsp. ground coriander

Black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1:

Fill a large pot with 2 cups water and fit with a steamer basket.

Bring to a boil.

Add the asparagus and steam until tender, 3 to 4 minutes.

Remove the asparagus to a cutting board and pour the water from the pot into a large measuring cup; add more water if needed to equal 2 cups.

Set the pot aside.

Step 2:

When the asparagus is cool enough to handle, trim off the tips and halve lengthwise; toss with a pinch of salt.

Save these pieces for garnish.

Add the remaining asparagus pieces to a blender with 1 cup of the reserved steaming water and blend until very smooth.

Step 3:

Melt the butter in the pot over medium heat.

Add the onion and cook until it begins to soften, 3 to 4 minutes.

Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, 30 seconds more.

Sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine.

Step 4:

Slowly whisk in the half-and-half and remaining 1 cup reserved steaming water until smooth.

Season with 1 teaspoon salt and the coriander.

Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture starts to thicken, 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 5:

Stir in the asparagus puree.

Taste and adjust the seasonings (add more salt if it needs it!) and let the soup heat through.

Ladle into bowls and garnish with the asparagus tips.

Season with pepper.

Notes:

Ingredient Quality: Since the flavor of asparagus is central to this soup, opt for fresh, high-quality asparagus for the best results. Choose firm, bright green spears with tight tips and avoid any that are wilted or discolored.

Texture Adjustment: Depending on personal preference, you can adjust the texture of the soup by varying the amount of pureed asparagus added. For a smoother consistency, blend the asparagus until completely smooth. For a chunkier soup, blend it less or pulse it in the blender.

Cream Substitution: If you prefer a lighter version of the soup, you can substitute part or all of the half-and-half with whole milk or a lower-fat alternative like evaporated milk. This will reduce the overall richness of the soup but still maintain a creamy texture.

Seasoning Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the soup. Fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon can add a subtle, aromatic note, while a dash of nutmeg or cayenne pepper can add warmth and complexity.

Garnish Options: While the recipe suggests garnishing with reserved asparagus tips, you can also get creative with other toppings. Try a dollop of crème fraîche, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added flavor and visual appeal.

Make-Ahead Preparation: This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Freezing: While this soup can be frozen, keep in mind that dairy-based soups may separate slightly upon thawing. To minimize this, cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring well to recombine.

Accompaniments: Serve this soup as a starter course with crusty bread or a side salad for a light and satisfying meal. For a heartier option, pair it with grilled cheese sandwiches or a quiche for a complete lunch or dinner.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of onions instead of the recommended finely chopped onion?

Yes, you can use other types of onions such as shallots or leeks for a slightly different flavor profile in the soup.

Can I substitute half-and-half with milk or cream?

Yes, you can substitute half-and-half with milk for a lighter version or heavy cream for a richer soup.

Adjust the quantity according to your preference.

Is there a gluten-free alternative to all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent instead of all-purpose flour to make the soup gluten-free.

Can I make this soup vegan?

While this recipe contains dairy (butter and half-and-half), you can make it vegan by using plant-based alternatives such as vegan butter and dairy-free milk or cream.

Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen asparagus if fresh is not available.

Just ensure it is thawed and drained before using, and adjust the steaming time accordingly.

How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup for future use. However, dairy-based soups may separate slightly upon thawing.

Stir well to recombine after thawing and reheating.

Can I adjust the consistency of the soup?

Yes, you can adjust the consistency by adding more liquid (water or broth) to thin it out or simmering it longer to thicken it, according to your preference.

Can I omit the ground coriander?

While ground coriander adds a subtle flavor to the soup, you can omit it if you prefer or substitute it with other spices such as ground cumin or paprika.

Can I garnish the soup with something other than asparagus tips?

Absolutely! You can garnish the soup with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives, a drizzle of olive oil, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added flavor and texture.