Creamy Asparagus Soup with Fresh Herbs and Tangy Lemon Juice

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy a bowl of creamy asparagus soup with fresh herbs and tangy lemon juice. This delightful soup is not only incredibly flavorful and creamy, but also easy to prepare with just a handful of ingredients. Pair it with a piece of crusty bread and a small side salad for a light and healthy meal.

Ingredients

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 large bunch of asparagus, trimmed and chopped into 1-inch pieces (about 3 cups)

• 2 1/2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

• 1/2 cup soaked cashews

• Juice of one medium lemon

• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

• Pinch of black pepper

• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill or tarragon

• 1/4 cup fresh chopped basil

• 1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley

Directions

Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large pot, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 6 to 8 minutes.

3. Add the chopped asparagus and sauté for another 2 minutes.

Simmer the Soup

1. Add 2 cups of vegetable broth to the pot and simmer over low-medium heat for 5 minutes, or until the asparagus is slightly tender.

2. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Blend the Ingredients

1. In a blender, add the remaining 1/2 cup of vegetable broth, lemon juice, and soaked cashews. Blend for 1 minute, or until the mixture is smooth.

2. Add the onion/asparagus mixture with the broth to the blender. Blend again until smooth.

3. Add the salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Blend for another minute until the soup is creamy and smooth.

Final Touches

1. Taste and season further if needed.

2. Reheat the soup in the same pot if desired, or enjoy it at room temperature.

3. Serve with a crusty piece of bread.

Enjoy this beautiful and nutritious soup, perfect for welcoming the spring season!