This Cream of Asparagus and Potato Soup is a smooth and warming delight. Packed with fresh asparagus, creamy potatoes, and a hint of garlic, it’s pure comfort in a bowl!
Making this soup is super easy! I love how I can whip it up on a chilly day, and it pairs perfectly with some crusty bread. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 🥣💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is the star here! If it’s out of season, look for frozen asparagus—you can find it pre-trimmed, which is super handy. Personally, I prefer the tender, young shoots for a sweeter flavor.
Potatoes: I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets for a creamy texture. If you’re watching carbs, cauliflower can be a great substitute! It’ll give a different flavor, but still adds that creamy body to the soup.
Onion and Garlic: While yellow onions are my go-to for their sweetness, you could also use shallots for a milder taste. If you need a garlic substitute, you can use garlic powder—about 1/4 teaspoon instead of 2 cloves.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is rich and delicious, but half-and-half or whole milk work well if you’re looking for lighter options. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk—just be aware it might alter the flavor a bit!
Seasonings: I love smoked paprika for a hint of depth, but if you prefer a milder taste, feel free to skip it. Ground white pepper adds a nice subtlety too, but black pepper can also do the trick.
How Do I Blend the Soup Smoothly Without a Mess?
Blending soup can feel tricky, but it doesn’t have to be! If you’re using an immersion blender, just stick it right into the pot and blend until smooth. If using a countertop blender, here are some tips:
- Blend in batches and fill the blender only halfway. This prevents splatter.
- Remove the center cap from the blender lid and cover it with a dish towel to let steam escape.
- Start blending on low speed and gradually increase to avoid a big mess.
Taking these steps will ensure you have a smooth and creamy soup without any daring splash zones in your kitchen!
How to Make Cream of Asparagus and Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh asparagus, trimmed (reserve some tips for garnish)
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or ground white pepper (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh chives or green onions, finely chopped
- Croutons (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup will take about 10-15 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to cook. So, plan for about 35-45 minutes in total from start to serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Asparagus:
Start by trimming the tough ends off the asparagus and cutting the stalks into 1-inch pieces. Reserve the tips because you’ll use them later for garnishing your lovely soup.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
Grab a large pot and heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Your kitchen should start smelling amazing!
3. Add Potatoes and Asparagus Stalks:
Now it’s time to add in the diced potatoes and the chopped asparagus stalks. Stir everything together and let them cook for another 2-3 minutes. This will help bring out those wonderful flavors.
4. Add Broth and Simmer:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes and asparagus are very tender, which will take about 20 minutes. This is where all the flavors combine beautifully!
5. Cook the Asparagus Tips:
While the soup is simmering, take a separate pot of boiling water and blanch the reserved asparagus tips for about 2 minutes. Then drain and set them aside. This will keep them nice and bright green!
6. Blend the Soup:
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup right in the pot until it’s completely smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender—just blend in batches and be careful with the hot liquid!
7. Add Cream and Season:
Once blended, return the soup to the pot (if you used a regular blender). Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt, black pepper, and the smoked paprika or white pepper if you’d like. Heat it gently but avoid boiling it again!
8. Prepare Croutons (Optional):
If you’re feeling a bit fancy, you can make croutons! Just sauté small cubes of bread in a little olive oil or butter until they’re golden and crispy. These will add a lovely crunch to your soup.
9. Serve:
Ladle the creamy soup into bowls and add some of those beautiful blanched asparagus tips on top. Don’t forget to sprinkle with chopped chives, green onions, and those optional croutons for some added flair!
10. Enjoy Warm:
Your soup is ready! Enjoy it warm as a comforting and creamy starter or main dish. It’s perfect for sharing or just indulging in yourself!
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus for This Soup?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen asparagus! Just make sure to thaw it first before incorporating it into the soup. However, keep in mind that the texture may be softer than that of fresh asparagus.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally for even warming. If the soup thickens after storing, feel free to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up!
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Also, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and olive oil instead of butter. It will still be creamy and delicious!
What Can I Serve With This Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a light meal. You can also enjoy it alongside a sandwich for a heartier option. Don’t forget those croutons for extra texture!
