JayasheeLet’s face it, when the weather cools down and the leaves start crunching underfoot, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm bowl of soup. Even if you’re like me and perpetually cold—yes, even in the dead heat of summer—you’ll love this hearty yet fresh Asparagus and Spinach Soup. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re being hugged from the inside. Bonus? It’s fast, easy, and packed with flavor. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Soup
A Quick and Nutritious Fix
This soup is not just a fall favorite; it’s an anytime-you-need-comfort favorite. Asparagus brings its A-game with fiber, vitamins, and that subtle earthiness, while spinach adds a touch of green goodness. Together, they make a powerhouse team for your health and your taste buds.
Flexible and Fuss-Free
Have a leftover leek? Toss it in. Want to keep it oil-free? You can totally use water or broth to sauté. Plus, it’s vegan and easy to customize with whatever fresh herbs or spices you’ve got lying around.
The Star Ingredients
Asparagus
This spring veggie steals the show here. It’s light, tender, and cooks quickly, making it perfect for a fast soup.
Spinach
Rich in iron and vitamins, spinach gives the soup a vibrant green hue and a slightly sweet undertone.
Leek and Garlic
Leeks add a mild, oniony base, while garlic gives that comforting depth we all crave in a bowl of soup.
Broth and Seasoning
A good veggie broth and poultry seasoning (think sage, thyme, and rosemary) round out the flavors perfectly.
Also Read:
Asparagus and Spinach Soup: Your Cozy Fall Favorite
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 1 bunch asparagus
- 1 leek, chopped
- 1 cup spinach
- 3 cups veggie broth
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Prep Your Veggies
First things first: let’s deal with the asparagus. The woody ends? They’ve gotta go. Simply chop off the tough bits—about 1 to 1½ inches at the bottom. Then, cut off those delicate tips and set them aside (they’re your garnish game-changers). Chop the remaining stalks into 1-inch pieces.
Pro Tip
Leeks can be a bit sandy, so after chopping, give them a good rinse under cold water to avoid any gritty surprises in your soup.
Step 2: Sauté and Simmer
Grab a medium saucepan and heat it over medium. If you’re using oil, add about a tablespoon. Going oil-free? No problem—just splash in some broth or water. Toss in your leeks and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften.
Next up, add the asparagus pieces (not the tips yet!) and cook them until they turn a stunning, vibrant green—just 2-3 minutes will do.
Time to Build the Flavor
Pour in the veggie broth, sprinkle in the poultry seasoning, and stir in that minced garlic. Bring the whole thing to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Add your spinach, and let it cook uncovered for about 20 minutes or until the asparagus is nice and tender.
Step 3: Blend It Up
Now comes the fun part. Take the soup off the heat and blend it until smooth. You can use an immersion blender right in the pot, or transfer it to a high-powered blender for a silky texture.
But wait—we’re not done yet! Pour the blended soup back into the saucepan, and let’s finish strong.
Step 4: The Grand Finale
Add those reserved asparagus tips, along with the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for another 5 minutes, just enough for the tips to soften but still have a bit of bite.
Serve It Hot
Ladle that beautiful green soup into bowls and serve immediately. Pair it with crusty bread, a dollop of vegan sour cream, or just enjoy it as-is. Trust me, it’s perfect.
Why This Soup Deserves a Spot in Your Rotation
Packed with Nutrients
This soup is a vitamin and mineral goldmine. Asparagus is loaded with fiber and folate, while spinach brings in iron and vitamin K. Plus, the broth helps keep you hydrated and adds a depth of flavor that’s tough to beat.
Easy to Make Ahead
It keeps well in the fridge for a few days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just reheat and enjoy!
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re curled up on the couch watching your favorite show or hosting a dinner party, this soup feels both cozy and classy.
Final Thoughts
There you have it: an easy, healthy, and oh-so-delicious Asparagus and Spinach Soup that’s perfect for warming you up, no matter the season. It’s quick to whip up, packed with nutrients, and endlessly satisfying. So next time you spot a fresh bunch of asparagus, you know what to do. Happy cooking!
3 cups veggie broth
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