Cream of Asparagus Soup Recipe | Barefoot Contessa Inspired

Creamy Asparagus Soup: A Barefoot Contessa Classic

This recipe takes inspiration from the Barefoot Contessa’s effortless elegance, delivering a luxuriously creamy asparagus soup that’s surprisingly simple to make.

Asparagus, a springtime delight, shines in this velvety soup. Its delicate flavor is enhanced by the richness of cream and a touch of sharpness from lemon juice. This soup is perfect for a light lunch, a starter for a special dinner, or even a comforting weeknight meal.

Get ready to impress your taste buds with this timeless recipe.

Cream of Asparagus Soup Recipe Card

A classic Barefoot Contessa recipe, this cream of asparagus soup is a springtime staple that’s both elegant and easy to make.

Servings: 4-6

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

This recipe serves 4-6 and can be prepared in under an hour.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed (450 g)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (30 g)
• 1 onion, chopped (115 g)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (20 g)
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth (240 ml)
• 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh chives (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast asparagus on a baking sheet for 12-15 minutes.
3. In a large saucepan, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add broth, cream, mustard, and roasted asparagus to the saucepan.
5. Puree the mixture until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoy your creamy asparagus soup, garnished with chopped chives if desired.

Ingredients for Cream of Asparagus Soup

This Cream of Asparagus Soup, inspired by the Barefoot Contessa, relies on the freshness of its ingredients to deliver a delicious and creamy experience. At the heart of this recipe are fresh asparagus, onions, and garlic, which form the base flavor of the soup.

To prepare the soup, the following ingredients are required:

• 500 g / 2.5 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 1 large onion, chopped (approximately 250 g / 1 cup)
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced (about 15 g / 0.5 oz)
• 60 g / 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 500 ml / 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 250 ml / 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Grated nutmeg, to taste
• Optional ingredients:
  • 2 tablespoons / 30 g all-purpose flour (for thickening)
  • 125 g / 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (for added flavor)
  • Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

These ingredients will be cooked in a sequence that brings out the natural sweetness of the asparagus and the depth of the onions and garlic, all while maintaining a creamy texture from the heavy cream.

Cream of Asparagus Soup: Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe will guide you through creating a luxuriously smooth and flavorful asparagus soup, inspired by the Barefoot Contessa.

1. Prepare the Asparagus: Trim the woody ends off 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) of fresh asparagus spears. Roughly chop the asparagus, reserving the tender tips for garnish.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Asparagus and Broth: Add the chopped asparagus to the pot and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour in 1.5 liters (6 cups) of chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
4. Simmer and Blend: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the asparagus is very tender. Carefully transfer the soup to a blender and purée until completely smooth.
5. Finish and Season: Return the soup to the pot and stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Garnish: Heat the soup through over low heat. Ladle into bowls and garnish with the reserved asparagus tips and a drizzle of olive oil.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Cream of Asparagus Soup

When it comes to creating a rich and creamy asparagus soup, a few expert tips can make all the difference.

Selecting the Perfect Asparagus

• Choose asparagus with tightly closed buds and firm, upright spears. This ensures the best flavor and texture.
• Avoid asparagus with yellow or wilted tips, as it may be past its prime.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking asparagus can make it mushy and unappetizing. Aim for a tender but still crisp texture.
2. Don’t overprocess the soup, as it can become too thick and lose its delicate flavor.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use high-quality cream for the best flavor and texture. Heavy cream or half-and-half work well.
• Roasting the asparagus before pureeing it adds a depth of flavor and richness to the soup.
• Season the soup with a pinch of nutmeg and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.

By following these expert tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and creamy Cream of Asparagus Soup that’s sure to impress.

Substitutions and Alternatives in Cream of Asparagus Soup

To customize the Cream of Asparagus Soup recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs, consider the following substitutions and alternatives:

• Replace 240 g / 1 cup of heavy cream with 240 g / 1 cup of half-and-half or 120 g / 0.5 cup of coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.
• Use 2 tablespoons of olive oil instead of 2 tablespoons of butter for a reduced-fat option, reducing the overall calorie count.
• Substitute 1 teaspoon of dried thyme with 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme for a more pronounced herbal flavor.
• Add 120 g / 0.5 cup of diced potatoes for a thicker, creamier soup, or 120 g / 0.5 cup of diced bell peppers for added sweetness and texture.

When making these substitutions, keep in mind the flavor impact and adjust the seasoning accordingly. For example, if using coconut cream, you may want to add a pinch of salt to balance the flavor. Heat the soup to 82°C / 180°F to ensure the flavors meld together seamlessly.

Taking Your Cream of Asparagus Soup Further

The beauty of a classic recipe like Cream of Asparagus Soup lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with these variations to create your own unique flavor profiles.

1. Lemon-Dill Delight

Brighten up your soup with the zest and juice of 1 lemon and 2 tablespoons of fresh dill. Simmer for 5 minutes after adding the asparagus for a fresh, herbaceous twist. (No time change).

2. Cheesy Goodness

Add a touch of indulgence by stirring in 100 g (1 cup) of grated Gruyère cheese or Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. The cheese will melt into the soup, creating a creamy, savory delight. (No time change).

3. Spicy Kick

For those who like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño pepper to the soup. Adjust the amount to your preference. (No time change).

4. Earthy Mushroom Medley

Sauté 150 g (1 cup) of sliced mushrooms (cremini or shiitake work well) in butter before adding the asparagus. This will add a rich, earthy flavor to your soup. (Add 5-10 minutes to cooking time).

Storing and Reheating Cream of Asparagus Soup

Now that you’ve made this delicious Cream of Asparagus Soup, you’ll want to know how to keep it fresh for a longer period and reheat it safely.

Storage Guidelines

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store the cooled soup in the refrigerator at 4°C (39°F) or below for up to 3 days.
• Freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Guidelines

1. Reheat the soup to a minimum of 74°C (165°F) to ensure food safety.
2. Reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave. If reheating in the microwave, heat it in short intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup reaches the desired temperature.
3. Reheat only the amount you plan to consume, as reheating and re-storing can compromise the soup’s quality.

Troubleshooting Common Issues in Cream of Asparagus Soup

When making Cream of Asparagus Soup, inspired by the Barefoot Contessa, several issues can arise, affecting the overall quality of the dish. The most common problems include inconsistent consistency and flavor imbalances.

Common Problems and Fixes

The following are some common issues that may occur when preparing Cream of Asparagus Soup, along with their solutions:

• Too thick consistency: If the soup becomes too thick, add a small amount of chicken or vegetable broth (120 ml / 1/2 cup) and heat it over low heat, approximately 65°C / 150°F, stirring constantly, until the desired consistency is achieved.
• Too thin consistency: To thicken the soup, mix 15 g / 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour with 15 g / 1 tablespoon of butter or cream, then stir it into the soup and cook over low heat, about 65°C / 150°F, until the soup reaches the desired thickness.
• Lack of asparagus flavor: To intensify the asparagus flavor, add more asparagus spears (240 g / 1 cup) or use a higher ratio of asparagus to other ingredients, and cook the soup for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Unappealing color: If the soup has an unappealing color, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice (15 ml / 1 tablespoon) or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, to enhance the visual appeal.

By addressing these common issues, you can create a delicious and visually appealing Cream of Asparagus Soup that is sure to impress.

Nutritional Information for Cream of Asparagus Soup

This creamy asparagus soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Asparagus is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making this soup a healthy and satisfying meal.

Serving Size: 1 cup

• Calories: 80
• Protein: 3 grams
• Fat: 4 grams
• Carbohydrates: 8 grams
• Fiber: 3 grams

This soup is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cream of Asparagus Soup

Get answers to common questions about making and enjoying this delicious soup, inspired by the Barefoot Contessa.

• Q: What type of asparagus is best for soup? A: Thick, tender spears of asparagus work best for this recipe. Look for spears that are about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
• Q: Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh? A: Yes, but thaw and pat dry the asparagus before using. Frozen asparagus may affect the texture slightly.
• Q: How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick? A: Stir in a little more chicken or vegetable broth to achieve the desired consistency.
• Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Yes, refrigerate or freeze the soup for later use. Reheat gently and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Q: What temperature should I serve the soup? A: Serve the soup at 65°C (149°F) to 70°C (158°F) for optimal flavor and texture.

For more information and inspiration, visit our Cream of Asparagus Soup recipe page.

Key Takeaways for Making the Perfect Cream of Asparagus Soup

To create a delicious and creamy asparagus soup, several key points must be considered. The Barefoot Contessa’s recipe serves as a great foundation, emphasizing the importance of using fresh, high-quality asparagus (450 g / 1 lb) and aromatics like onion (115 g / 1/2 cup) and garlic (3 cloves).

• Roasting the asparagus in the oven at 200°C / 400°F enhances its natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Sauteing the aromatics in butter (55 g / 2 tablespoons) until softened is crucial for developing the soup’s base flavor.
• Blending the soup until smooth, then whisking in heavy cream (120 ml / 1/2 cup) adds a rich and velvety texture.

By focusing on these essential elements and using the right techniques, a truly exceptional cream of asparagus soup can be achieved, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.

A Springtime Staple

This Cream of Asparagus Soup is one of those recipes that always feels like a celebration. It’s bright, fresh, and bursting with the flavor of spring, which is exactly what I crave after a long winter.

I remember first making this soup for a dinner party years ago. It was a beautiful spring evening, and the aroma of the soup simmering on the stove filled the house with warmth. My guests raved about it, and I knew I’d stumbled upon something special.

The key to a truly delicious Cream of Asparagus Soup is using the freshest asparagus you can find. Look for spears that are bright green and firm to the touch. Don’t be afraid to use a generous amount – the more asparagus, the better the flavor!

This soup is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a light lunch with a crusty bread, or as a starter before a more substantial meal. It’s also perfect for a cozy night in.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious Cream of Asparagus Soup

With its rich, velvety texture and subtle asparagus flavor, this Cream of Asparagus Soup is sure to become a springtime favorite. We hope you’ve enjoyed making and savoring this Barefoot Contessa-inspired recipe as much as we have. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings or add-ins to make it your own – the possibilities are endless!

For more delicious soup recipes, be sure to check out our archives for inspiration. And don’t forget to share your experiences with this Cream of Asparagus Soup in the comments below – we’d love to hear how it turns out!