Amazing Cream Of Asparagus Soup That Comforts
A Cozy Bowl of Goodness
In a world where flavors collide, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Cream of Asparagus Soup. Imagine childhood memories of mixing spices and sharing laughter in a homely kitchen. The vibrant green asparagus sings comfort and joy, bringing back memories of tender family moments. This delectable blend of fresh vegetables, rich broth, and creamy goodness warms the heart as it nourishes the body. With each silky spoonful, you’ll feel embraced by its coziness, urging you to whip up a batch for family and friends. Embrace the experience and let the flavors transport you to your best culinary memories!
Quick Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: American
- Best Season: Spring
What Makes This Dish Shine
- Fresh and Flavorful: The vibrant taste of asparagus truly shines, giving this soup a refreshing profile. Combined with creamy beans, it becomes a delightful, satisfying dish.
- Easy to Prepare: In just over half an hour, you can create a nourishing meal with simple steps. Perfect for weekday dinners or special gatherings, it’s approachable yet impressive.
- Versatile Enjoyment: This soup can be served warm or blended to velvety perfection, depending on your mood and preference. It’s a fantastic starter or a comforting main dish any time of year.
- Healthful and Wholesome: Packed with fiber from asparagus and beans, this soup is a nutrient-dense choice for those looking to eat healthier. It’s a great way to sneak in those veggies!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces asparagus
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 8 cups low sodium vegetable broth or filtered water
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 1 can (30 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tips for Fresh Ingredients
- Asparagus: Look for firm, bright green stalks with tight tips. This ensures fresh flavor and the best texture.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for enhanced taste. It can elevate the dish’s overall flavor profile significantly.
- Onions: Fresh onions should feel firm and have a healthy sheen. Sweet onions can also add depth to the soup.
- Cannellini Beans: Canned beans work perfectly here; just rinse them to reduce sodium. You may also use white beans for a similar texture and flavor.
Simple Step-by-Step Guide
- Sauté the Base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add in Flavor: Stir in the minced garlic and asparagus, cooking for another 5 minutes until just tender.
- Combine Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth or water and bring to a boil, which intensifies the flavors even more.
- Simmer Away: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, until the asparagus is tender but still vibrant green.
- Blend for Creaminess: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency.
- Incorporate Beans: Stir in the cannellini beans and heat through, which adds richness and protein.
- Season it Up: Taste and season with salt and pepper for a customized touch.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or a sprinkle of croutons on top for a delightful crunch.
Pro Pointers for Best Results
- Timing is Key: Make sure not to overcook the asparagus; you want it tender yet bright green. This not only preserves its flavor but also its nutritional benefits.
- Texture Tweaks: If you prefer a chunkier soup, reserve a few asparagus tips and add them back in after blending for a satisfying texture.
- Flavor Variation: Feel free to add other herbs or spices, such as thyme or lemon zest, to enhance the taste profile even further.
- Consistency Control: If the soup is too thick, add a little extra broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Fun Variations to Try
- Vegan Delight: Omit the cannellini beans and replace with more vegetables like potatoes for a hearty vegan variety.
- Creamy Indulgence: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream for an ultra-rich version.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a delightful kick.
- Regional Flavors: Explore different herbs from Italian or French cuisine by adding basil or tarragon to elevate the dish globally.
What to Serve Alongside It
Pair this creamy soup with a crisp salad for a refreshing start, or serve it alongside a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting lunch. For a drink, a glass of white grape juice or sparkling water with a wedge of lemon enhances this cozy meal beautifully.
Prep and Freezer Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the soup in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Freezing Instructions: Cool the soup completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
- Reheating Method: To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Serving Style Suggestions
For an appealing presentation, serve the soup in beautiful bowls and add a swirl of cream on top. Garnish with fresh herbs—like chives or parsley—and offer a warm slice of homemade bread to enhance the whole experience. Create a cozy vibe by dimming the lights and enjoying a meal just like you would in a welcoming family kitchen.
Helpful Kitchen Secrets
- Stock vs. Broth: Using homemade or well-seasoned broth can make a significant difference in flavor depth.
- Immersion Blender Magic: A powerful immersion blender is a kitchen staple for soups, providing ease and quick cleanup.
- Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the flavor, so don’t hesitate to add them at the end for a burst of freshness.
- Season Gradually: Adjusting seasoning throughout the cooking process helps to build layers of flavor, making each bite irresistible.
Storage and Reheating Insights
Store any leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to three days. You can reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, for stovetop reheating, add a splash of broth to help retain the creamy texture.
Your Queries Addressed
- Can I use frozen asparagus? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well prior to cooking to avoid excess moisture.
- Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, the ingredients are gluten-free; however, always check labels if using broth or other packaged items.
- Can I use other beans? Feel free to experiment with white beans, chickpeas, or even lentils, depending on your preferences!
- How can I store leftovers? Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer, as per your needs.
- Is this soup customizable? Definitely! Add your favorite ingredients or spices to create a personalized dish.
- Can I add cheese? For a creamy finish, a sprinkle of Parmesan right before serving would be delightful!
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 8g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 2g
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary.
A Heartfelt Reflection
Cooking connects us—across generations, cultures, and flavors. Each bowl of Cream of Asparagus Soup is a tribute to warmth and love from my days in my beloved kitchen. May these recipes ignite joy and gather friends around your table, making new memories just as I did in vibrant family kitchens. Through cooking, we share a piece of ourselves, creating a tapestry of flavors inspired by tradition and heart.
Ending on a Delicious Note
No matter where you are on your cooking journey, this Cream of Asparagus Soup is an inviting recipe to add to your repertoire. Easy to make and filled with wholesome ingredients, it encourages you to explore flavors and share them with those you cherish. So grab that pot, embrace the warmth of home, and let’s create something wonderful together. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later—it’s one you’ll want to revisit time and again!
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Cream Of Asparagus Soup
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and creamy soup made with fresh asparagus and cannellini beans, perfect for nourishing moments with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 pound trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces asparagus
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 8 cups low sodium vegetable broth or filtered water
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 1 can (30 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and asparagus, cooking for another 5 minutes until just tender.
- Pour in the vegetable broth or water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, until the asparagus is tender but still vibrant green.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency.
- Stir in the cannellini beans and heat through.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or croutons.
Notes
For a chunkier soup, reserve a few asparagus tips and add them back in after blending. You can also customize the flavor with herbs or spices of your choice.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
