Spring Asparagus Soup

Name: Spring Asparagus Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 spring onions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream (optional); Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Meals

As the weather warms up, I find myself craving lighter dishes, and this Spring Asparagus Soup fits the bill perfectly. I love how the vibrant green of the asparagus shines through in each spoonful, bringing both freshness and flavor. The subtle addition of lemon brightens the soup, making it a delightful starter for springtime meals. Plus, it’s a quick recipe that comes together in about thirty minutes, so it’s ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings with friends.

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:01:36.259Z

When I first made this soup, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could yield such a rich and satisfying flavor profile. The spring onions add a lovely sweetness, while the asparagus lends a unique depth. I found that blending the soup until completely smooth creates an indulgent texture, reminiscent of something you'd find in a fine dining restaurant.

One particular tip I discovered during my culinary experiments is to finish the soup with a touch of cream or a dollop of crème fraîche for an added richness. It takes this humble vegetable soup to another level and makes it feel like a special occasion dish. Enjoying it warm on a cool spring evening is a real treat!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant green color that brightens your meal
Refreshing citrus notes enhance the natural flavor of asparagus
Quick and easy preparation makes it a weeknight favorite

Understanding Asparagus

Asparagus is the star of this soup, providing not only vibrant color but also a distinct flavor that complements the other ingredients. When selecting asparagus, look for bright green stalks that are firm and plump. The tips should be tightly closed, signaling freshness. Avoid asparagus that looks wilted or has a slimy texture. Properly trimmed, these stalks will provide the perfect balance of crispness and tenderness in your soup.

In this recipe, we'll cut the asparagus into pieces to enhance its cooking speed and facilitate smoother blending later. Remember, the asparagus will naturally break down in the soup, but to maintain some structure, keep an eye on cooking times. As a guide, you'll find that 10 minutes of simmering creates a tender texture without losing the vegetable's vibrancy.

Elevating Flavors

The addition of lemon juice in this asparagus soup brightens up its flavor profile, making each spoonful refreshing. I recommend using fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for optimal flavor. Additionally, consider adding the lemon juice gradually during blending to ensure you achieve the perfect balance between acidity and the earthiness of the asparagus.

If you're looking to add more depth to the soup, you might consider incorporating herbs like dill or tarragon, which pair well with asparagus. Fresh herbs can be added during the last few minutes of cooking for an aromatic infusion, or blended in for a more integrated flavor. A sprinkle of fresh herbs as a garnish can also elevate the presentation.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This soup can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove to avoid overheating the cream if added. You might want to add a splash of additional vegetable broth or cream during reheating to restore the soup's silky texture, especially if it thickens in the fridge.

For a complete meal, serve the soup with crusty bread or a light salad. It also pairs beautifully with grilled seafood or chicken, making it a versatile dish for lunch or dinner. If you're hosting a gathering, consider serving it in shot glasses as an elegant starter, allowing guests to enjoy its vibrant color and flavor in a fun, bite-sized portion.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful bowl of Spring Asparagus Soup:

Main Ingredients

1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 spring onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream (optional)
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking to streamline the process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Spring Asparagus Soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Asparagus

Stir in the asparagus pieces and spring onion, cooking for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften.

Pour the Broth

Add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the asparagus is tender.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches.

Finish with Lemon and Cream

Stir in the lemon juice and heavy cream (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Serve hot, garnished with additional spring onions or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider garnishing with toasted pine nuts or croutons.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your soup ends up too thick after blending, don't hesitate to thin it out with additional vegetable broth or water gradually while heating it over medium-low heat. A splash of broth also helps to brighten its flavor if you notice that it has become too muted. Just blend again until smooth after adding liquid.

Conversely, if you find the soup too thin, you can simmer it uncovered on low heat for a few minutes to let it reduce and concentrate the flavors. Another option is to mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and add it to the pot, stirring until the soup thickens slightly.

Variations on the Recipe

For a vegan adaptation, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a nut-based cream. These alternatives supply creaminess while keeping the dish plant-based. Don't forget to double-check that your vegetable broth is truly vegan, as some brands may contain animal derivatives.

Additionally, you can experiment with different greens, such as spinach or peas, to provide a unique twist to the classic asparagus flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions and garlic to introduce a subtle spiciness that complements the dish.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This spring asparagus soup can be easily adjusted to fit your needs. If cooking for a crowd, simply double the ingredients, ensuring to use a larger pot to accommodate the increased volume. You may need to adjust simmering time slightly when scaling up, as larger quantities can take longer to reach a boil and fully cook.

If you want to make a smaller batch, feel free to cut the ingredient amounts in half. Just be mindful that the blending process may yield a thicker texture when working with less volume. Adding a little extra broth at blending will help achieve your desired consistency without compromising the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen asparagus?

Yes, frozen asparagus can be used, but fresh is recommended for the best flavor.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is there a vegan option?

Absolutely! Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or avoid it altogether for a lighter soup.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Feel free to toss in peas or spinach for added nutrients and flavor!