This Creamless Cream of Asparagus Soup is light and bright, packed with fresh asparagus flavor. It’s easy to make and has a smooth texture that warms you right up!
When I make this soup, I feel like a chef! Plus, it’s great as a starter or a snack. You can even dress it up with some croutons if you’re feeling fancy. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is essential for the flavor. If it’s out of season or not available, you could substitute with frozen asparagus. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before cooking.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re looking for a milder taste, go for a shallot instead. Green onions can also be a nice twist!
Potato: The potato helps give the soup a creamy texture without cream. You can swap it with cauliflower for a lower-carb option, or even try sweet potato for a hint of sweetness.
Broth: Vegetable broth is my go-to, but chicken broth will work just as well if you don’t need it to be vegetarian. Homemade broth can elevate the soup’s flavor too.
Olive Oil: This is used for sautéing. If you’re in a pinch, feel free to use any cooking oil you have on hand, like avocado or canola oil.
How Do I Puree the Soup Smoothly?
Pureeing the soup is a key step for that silky smooth texture. An immersion blender simplifies this process right in the pot. If you use a regular blender, here’s how to do it safely.
- Let the soup cool slightly before blending to prevent splatters.
- Blend in small batches, filling the blender only halfway. This allows room for steam and helps avoid a mess.
- Cover the lid with a kitchen towel while blending—it helps keep the heat in and prevents the lid from popping off.
After blending, coat the soup back in the pot, adjust the seasoning, and enjoy! Using an immersion blender makes the process much quicker, so consider investing in one if you make soup often.
How to Make Creamless Cream of Asparagus Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: reserved asparagus tips, microgreens, or fresh herbs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and hearty option for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
First, grab a large pot and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and starts to smell really good.
2. Add Potatoes and Asparagus:
Now, it’s time to add the diced potatoes and asparagus pieces to your pot. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This will help enhance the flavor of the vegetables.
3. Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once you see bubbles, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let everything cook until the potatoes and asparagus are tender, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Blend the Soup:
After the vegetables are cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s nice and smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully ladle the soup into a regular blender in batches, blending until smooth, and then transfer it back to the pot.
5. Season to Perfection:
Return the blended soup to the pot and give it a taste. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; adjust it to your liking!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Now it’s time to serve! Ladle the warm soup into bowls and get creative with your garnishes. You can add reserved asparagus tips, sprinkle some microgreens, or toss in a few fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Enjoy!
Grab your spoon and enjoy your homemade, creamless cream of asparagus soup while it’s warm. It’s healthy, delicious, and oh-so-comforting!
Can I Substitute Frozen Asparagus for Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen asparagus, just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the pot. This will help prevent excess moisture in your soup. You can follow the same cooking times but check for tenderness to ensure it’s cooked through.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add to This Soup?
You can definitely customize your soup! Consider adding other vegetables like leeks, spinach, or peas for additional flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them into similar sizes and add them during the same cooking step as the asparagus and potatoes.
How to Store Leftover Soup?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion, and it will keep well for about 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, it’s a great option for meal prep! You can make the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If it thickens too much in the fridge, add a bit of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
