This Cream of Asparagus Soup is a creamy, velvety dish that's bursting with fresh, delicate asparagus flavor. Perfect as a starter or a light meal, this recipe is ideal for spring when asparagus is in season. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, you'll be amazed at how delicious and wholesome this soup is. It's a great way to enjoy a healthy, home-cooked meal that’s both comforting and nourishing.
Sauté the Vegetables. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Cook the Asparagus. Add the asparagus pieces to the pot and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender.
Blend the Soup. Once the asparagus is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, being careful with the hot liquid.
Add Cream and Seasoning. Return the soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, if using. Cook for another 5 minutes until heated through.
Serve. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy warm.
For extra flavor, roast the asparagus in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes before adding it to the soup. This will enhance the sweetness and depth of flavor. Make it lighter by swapping heavy cream for half-and-half or milk. To thicken the soup, you can add a small potato while cooking the asparagus or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in water before adding the cream.