Spring Greens and Asparagus Soup with Lemon Zest
Spring Greens and Asparagus Soup with Lemon Zest
Experience the vibrant flavors of spring with this delightful vegetable soup, bursting with fresh asparagus spears, tender spinach, and bright peas, all simmered in a light, aromatic vegetable broth. A delicate touch of fresh mint and bright lemon zest elevates the garden-fresh essence, making each spoonful a revitalizing treat. Perfectly suited as a light lunch or a refreshing starter, this wholesome and nourishing dish celebrates the season's bounty. Its simplicity belies its complex, clean taste, and the ease of preparation means you can enjoy a sophisticated yet comforting bowl of goodness any day of the week. The delicate balance of vegetables creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that is both subtle and satisfying, making it a perfect addition to any meal centered around healthy, flavorful vegetable creations.
- Preparation time
- 15 min
- Cooking time
- 25 min
- Total time
- 40 min
- Servings
- 4
Instructions
Preparation
- 1Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- 2Add chopped shallots and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cooking the Soup
- 1Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add the asparagus pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
- 2Stir in the fresh spinach and green peas. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spinach has wilted and peas are heated through.
- 3Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the chopped fresh mint and lemon zest. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Finishing and Serving
- 1Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until desired consistency, then return to the pot.
- 2Taste and re-season if necessary. Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with extra fresh mint and a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.
Nutrition Information
- Calories
- 86 kcal
- Protein
- 3 g
- Fat
- 5 g
- Carbs
- 9 g
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 86 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Carbs | 9 g |
Tips
- Ensure asparagus is trimmed properly; the woody ends are tough. Snap them off where they naturally break for best results.
- Avoid overcooking the greens to retain their vibrant color and fresh, delicate flavor in this light vegetable soup.
- Serve this spring soup with a crusty baguette or a light green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.