1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into
1 inch pieces (reserve some tips for garnish if desired)
4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (or coconut milk for a vegan option)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional garnishes: reserved asparagus tips (sautéed or blanched), croutons, a swirl of cream, fresh herbs (like dill or chives)
Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the asparagus and broth: Add the chopped asparagus (reserving some tips for garnish if desired) to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften and turn bright green. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth.
Simmer the soup: Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the asparagus is very tender.
Blend the soup: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender or use an immersion blender to blend it until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, work in batches and be cautious of hot liquids.
Stir in the cream: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk. Heat through gently, but do not boil.
Season and serve: Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you reserved asparagus tips, you can quickly sauté or blanch them and use them as a garnish.
Garnish and serve: Ladle the hot cream of asparagus soup into bowls. Garnish with the reserved asparagus tips (if using), croutons, a swirl of cream, or fresh herbs, if desired.