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Creamy Asparagus and Leek Soup

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A cozy, creamy soup featuring fresh asparagus and sautéed leeks, perfect for chilly evenings and easy to prepare in under 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced thinly
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth, low-sodium preferred
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) heavy cream or half-and-half (can substitute with coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped or 1/2 teaspoon dried (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing if you prefer less butter)

Instructions

  1. Trim the tough ends off the asparagus and cut into 1-inch pieces. Slice the cleaned leeks thinly. Set aside.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally. Cook until soft and translucent, about 8-10 minutes, avoiding browning.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Add the asparagus pieces and pour in the broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower heat to a simmer. Cover and cook until asparagus is tender, about 12-15 minutes.
  5. Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a countertop blender, blend in batches carefully. Add more broth or water if soup is too thick.
  6. Return the blended soup to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper to taste. Heat gently without boiling to avoid curdling. Add lemon juice last to brighten flavors.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

Use fresh asparagus with firm stalks and tight tips for best flavor. Clean leeks thoroughly to remove grit. When blending hot soup, keep lid slightly ajar and cover with a towel to prevent splattering. Add cream after blending to avoid curdling. Lemon juice added at the end brightens the flavor. Reserve some asparagus tips before blending for texture contrast if desired. Soup tastes better the next day as flavors meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: asparagus soup, leek soup, creamy soup, cozy meal, easy soup recipe, homemade soup, healthy soup, vegetarian soup

Find it online: https://rowanrecipes.com/creamy-asparagus-and-leek-soup-recipe-easy-homemade-cozy-meal-ideas/