Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Blender or immersion blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chopped asparagus and broth, and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer until asparagus is tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Using a blender or immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth.
7. Return the soup to the pot and stir in softened cream cheese until fully incorporated.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat for cooking
- Serve hot
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Asparagus can be substituted with broccoli or cauliflower.
- Chicken or vegetable broth can be substituted with water or milk.
- Olive oil can be substituted with butter or vegetable oil.
- Cream cheese can be substituted with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Variations:
- Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for extra flavor.
- Top with croutons or grated Parmesan cheese for added texture.
- Use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of cream cheese for a richer soup.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to trim the tough ends of the asparagus before chopping.
- Use an immersion blender for easier cleanup.
- Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more or less broth.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat soup in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual bowls with a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of sour cream on top.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme
- Croutons
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Pairings:
- Serve with a crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled cheese sandwich
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, simmer for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the soup to a safe temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Asparagus has been used in cooking since ancient times, and was prized by the Greeks and Romans for its medicinal properties.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, savory, and slightly sweet.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a starter or main course for a light lunch or dinner.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A