This Creamy Lemon Asparagus Soup is a delightful way to welcome the freshness of spring into your kitchen. Its vibrant flavor and smooth texture make it a sophisticated, yet simple, dish perfect for any occasion. Plus, it's a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal asparagus at its best.
The star of this dish is, of course, the asparagus. It brings a fresh, grassy flavor that shines in this soup. The olive oil is used to sauté the vegetables, adding a subtle richness. A large onion provides a savory base, while garlic adds depth and aroma. The vegetable broth serves as the liquid foundation, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them. Heavy cream gives the soup its creamy texture, but feel free to substitute with coconut milk for a vegan option. Lemon zest and lemon juice bring a zippy brightness that cuts through the creaminess. Finally, a touch of salt and pepper enhances all the flavors, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
This soup makes a great starter or a light meal on its own. Pair it with a crusty baguette or a slice of sourdough to soak up the creamy broth. It also complements grilled chicken or a fresh garden salad beautifully, making it a perfect addition to a springtime lunch or dinner.
Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, add the chopped onion and cook it until it's translucent, which should take about five minutes. Keep stirring so it doesn't brown. Next, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute or two until it's wonderfully fragrant but not burnt.
Now, add your asparagus pieces to the pot. Give them a nice stir and let them cook for about three to four minutes. They should start to soften but still be bright green. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, lower the heat and let it all simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender enough to blend.
When the asparagus is ready, take the pot off the heat and let it cool just slightly. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it's smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Now, stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season to your liking with salt and pepper.
Place the pot back on low heat just to warm it through. Once it's nice and warm, it's ready to serve. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a bit of color and fresh flavor.