This creamy asparagus soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With fresh asparagus and a touch of cream, it’s perfect for chilly days. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Making this soup always makes my kitchen smell amazing. I love pairing it with crusty bread for dipping—it’s a match made in heaven! 🥖💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is the star of this soup! If you can’t find fresh, you can use frozen asparagus instead, just add it directly without thawing. For a twist, consider using peas or broccoli for a different flavor.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness, but you can swap it with shallots or leeks for a milder taste. If you’re in a hurry, onion powder can be a quick substitute, though fresh is always best.
Heavy Cream: This gives the soup its richness. You can replace it with half-and-half for a lighter soup or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Almond milk works too, but be cautious as it will change the flavor.
Broth: Vegetable broth adds depth. You can use chicken broth if you prefer that flavor or even homemade stock for an extra touch. For low-sodium options, look for reduced-salt broths.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Is Smooth and Creamy?
Blending the soup to the right consistency is key. If using an immersion blender, blend until smooth right in the pot. If using a stand blender, let the soup cool slightly to avoid splattering. Always blend in batches if needed.
- Be careful – hot liquids can explode in machines!
- Blend until it’s silky, ensuring all the asparagus pieces are well mixed.
- Add the cream after blending for an airy texture.
Finally, for an even smoother finish, press the blended soup through a fine-mesh sieve before serving. This step is optional but adds an exceptional touch!
How to Make Cream of Asparagus Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces (keep some tips whole for garnish)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (plus extra for drizzling)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Roasted asparagus tips
- Additional cream swirl
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cream of Asparagus Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 20-25 minutes to cook. You’ll be enjoying this creamy delight in about 40 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
Start by heating the olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté it for about 4-5 minutes until the onion becomes nice and translucent. This brings out its sweetness!
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook it for another minute, stirring occasionally, until it smells delicious and fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Asparagus:
Now, toss in the asparagus pieces (don’t forget to set aside a few tips for garnish). Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender.
5. Prepare the Garnish:
While the soup simmers, take the reserved asparagus tips and sauté them in a little olive oil or butter over medium heat until they’re tender and slightly charred. Set them aside for garnish later.
6. Blend the Soup:
Once the asparagus is nice and tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Remember, hot liquids can splatter!
7. Add the Cream:
Return the blended soup back to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and heat gently, making sure not to boil it again for that creamy texture.
8. Season It Up:
Taste your soup and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your liking. This is what brings all the flavors together!
9. Serve Your Soup:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each bowl with the sautéed asparagus tips and if you like, drizzle a little extra cream for that fancy touch!
10. Enjoy!
Serve your creamy soup hot, ideally with some crusty bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy every spoonful!
There you have it—your own delicious cream of asparagus soup ready to be savored!
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen asparagus! Just add it directly to the pot without thawing. Keep in mind that frozen asparagus might be a bit softer, so reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent it from becoming mushy.
How Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
To make this soup dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Just add a bit more to reach your desired creaminess, and consider blending in some cashews for extra richness!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove while adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the texture.
What Are Some Good Serving Suggestions?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or even a simple sandwich. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside grilled cheese for the perfect comfort food combo!
