Asparagus is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that can be eaten in many different ways. One of the easiest and most satisfying ways to enjoy asparagus is in a creamy soup. A one cup (8 fl oz) serving of cream of asparagus soup, made with equal parts milk and canned asparagus, contains approximately 161 calories.

In addition to being a relatively low-calorie option, cream of asparagus soup has many other nutritional benefits. It is high in vitamins A and C, folate, and potassium, as well as protein and fiber.

In this article, we will discuss these and other health benefits of cream of asparagus soup, as well as how to make it and some suggestions for serving and storing it.

Calories and Macronutrients

As mentioned in the introduction, a one cup (8 fl oz) serving of cream of asparagus soup made with equal parts milk and canned asparagus contains approximately 161 calories. In addition, this serving contains 6 grams of fat, 19 grams of carbohydrates, and 7 grams of protein.

Vitamins and Minerals

In addition to being relatively low in calories, cream of asparagus soup is also high in various vitamins and minerals. In particular, it is an excellent source of vitamin A, which is important for maintaining healthy skin, eyes, and immune function. It is also a good source of vitamin C, folate, and potassium.

Health Benefits

Because cream of asparagus soup is high in vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber, it has many health benefits. For example, consuming this soup on a regular basis may help to boost immunity, promote healthy digestion, and even aid in weight loss. In addition, the anti-inflammatory properties of asparagus can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body, which can help to prevent chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

Serving Size and Calories

As mentioned earlier, a one cup (8 fl oz) serving of cream of asparagus soup contains approximately 161 calories. However, if you want to reduce the calorie content of your soup, you can use skim milk instead of whole milk, or even substitute some of the milk with vegetable broth. You can also adjust the serving size to suit your needs.

Variations

There are many ways to vary the basic recipe for cream of asparagus soup. For example, you can add other vegetables to the soup, such as onions, garlic, celery, or carrots. You can also add other flavors, such as lemon zest, fresh herbs like thyme or basil, or even a dash of hot sauce. Another way to vary the recipe is to use different types of cream. For a lighter soup, you can use half and half instead of heavy cream, or you can use low-fat yogurt to add creaminess without increasing the calorie count.

How to Make Cream of Asparagus Soup?

Making cream of asparagus soup is a relatively simple process. You will need canned asparagus, milk, cream, butter, flour, and some seasonings. First, blend the asparagus with some of the milk until smooth. Melt the butter in a pot, add the flour to make a roux, then slowly whisk in the remaining milk and cream. Finally, add the asparagus puree and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer until the soup is heated through and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Cream of asparagus soup can be served as a main dish or as a side dish. It pairs well with crusty bread or a salad for a complete meal. You can also garnish the soup with some chopped chives or parsley, or even some croutons for added texture.

Storage Instructions

Cream of asparagus soup can be stored for up to three days in the refrigerator, or you can freeze it for longer storage. When reheating the soup, be sure to stir it often to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Possible Risks and Precautions

Asparagus is generally considered safe to eat for most people. However, some individuals may be allergic to asparagus or may experience gastrointestinal upset after consuming it. In addition, some medications may interact with asparagus, so it is important to talk to your doctor if you are taking any medications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cream of asparagus soup is a delicious and healthy option for anyone looking to add more vegetables to their diet. Whether you make it from scratch or use canned asparagus, this soup is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences. So why not give it a try?