Asparagus With Cream Cheese Soup
A creamy, tender asparagus soup with melted cream cheese, perfect for a quick appetizer or light meal, suitable for both casual and elegant dining occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the frozen asparagus and chicken broth in a pan; bring to a boil, uncovered.
- Stir to break apart the asparagus, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.
- Add salt to taste. Cut the cream cheese into 1/2-inch cubes and place in a soup tureen.
- Pour the hot asparagus soup into the tureen and serve at once.
- If using sour cream, pour the soup into individual bowls and add sour cream without stirring.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending the soup after cooking. If you don't have chicken broth, vegetable broth works well too. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. For a twist, try incorporating herbs like dill or thyme, which pair nicely with asparagus. Feel free to adjust the salt based on your broth's sodium content.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For an extra treat, enjoy it alongside Chicken Spread Or Turkey for a hearty lunch or dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus With Cream Cheese Soup contains roughly 223 calories, with 7g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1684mg per serving (73% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh asparagus instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh asparagus, trim the ends and cut them into 1-inch pieces. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as fresh asparagus may take a bit longer to become tender, typically around 15 minutes of simmering.
Is there a way to make this soup vegan?
Yes! To make a vegan version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and replace cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative. This maintains the creamy texture while keeping the dish plant-based.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding sautéed onions or garlic at the beginning for depth. A splash of white wine during the simmering process can enhance the flavor, or you can stir in some grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for a richer taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).