There’s nothing quite like a bowl of soup to warm you up, and this creamy asparagus and potato soup hits all the right notes for a comforting and fresh spring meal. It’s also incredibly versatile, easily adapted to be vegan, vegetarian, or even loaded up with extra protein.
Spring is the perfect time to embrace seasonal cooking. Asparagus is at its peak, offering the best flavor and nutritional value. And you can’t go wrong with potatoes, which are available year-round.
In this article, we’ll dive into a simple and delicious recipe for soup with asparagus and potatoes, along with variations to suit your preferences, serving suggestions to elevate your meal, and tips for storing leftovers.
Understanding the key ingredients
A few fresh ingredients come together to make this soup a star. Here’s a bit more about why we chose these particular vegetables.
Asparagus: The star of the show
When you’re buying asparagus, choose stalks that are firm, with tips that are tightly closed. Asparagus season is generally from February to June, so it’s often at its best in the spring.
Before you chop your asparagus, you’ll want to trim off the tough ends. Roasting the asparagus before adding it to the soup can add a deeper layer of flavor and a bit of texture.
Potatoes: Creaminess and body
Starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon Golds will give the soup a creamy texture. Be sure to peel and dice your potatoes, so they’ll cook evenly.
Asparagus and Potato Soup Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to make some soup? Here’s how:
- Gather your ingredients. You’ll need asparagus, potatoes, onion, garlic, and either chicken or vegetable broth. If you want a richer soup, grab some cream and butter. Olive oil also works instead of butter. Check the recipe card for quantities.
- Sauté the aromatics. Melt some butter (or add some olive oil) in a pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic and cook until softened—usually about 5 minutes. Don’t let the garlic burn!
- Simmer the soup. Toss in the potatoes and broth. Bring it to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender. Then add the asparagus and cook until it’s tender-crisp. You don’t want mushy asparagus.
- Blend for creaminess. Use an immersion blender right in the pot to make the soup smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Be careful when blending hot liquids!
- Finishing touches. Stir in the cream, if you’re using it. Season with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like. Celery salt, Old Bay seasoning, or thyme can be delicious.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ins
This soup recipe is delicious as is, but it’s also easy to adapt to your preferences. Here are a few ideas.
Vegetarian Options
To make it vegetarian:
- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
- Use olive oil instead of butter.
- Swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream.
Adding Texture and Depth
Take your soup to the next level with these extras:
- Top with toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds for a little bit of crunch.
- Add crumbled cooked bacon or pancetta for a salty, savory kick.
- Roast a few asparagus tips separately and use them as a garnish. Roasting brings out their sweetness and adds a pleasant textural contrast.
Serving and storage tips
This creamy soup is pretty satisfying all on its own, but it’s also great with a few garnishes and a good sandwich or salad.
Serving suggestions
- Garnishes: Offer fresh herbs like chives or parsley, or a swirl of cream. Croutons are always a good option, too.
- Pairings: This soup is great with crusty bread for dipping and also pairs nicely with a light salad or sandwich.
Storage and reheating
- Storing leftovers: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing for later: Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Key Takeaways
Asparagus and potato soup is a fantastic way to welcome the flavors of spring! It’s easy to make, and you can adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, or toppings. Enjoy this simple and delicious soup!