Fresh Asparagus Soup with Parmesan Crisps
Parmesan crisps are an easy, impressive soup garnish made by melting grated cheese in small rounds.
Ingredients
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 medium onion, chopped (1 cup)
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5 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
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2 pounds fresh asparagus (36 to 40 medium-size spears), tips reserved, stalks cut into 1/2-inch pieces, divided
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1/3 cup low-fat milk or heavy cream
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
Directions
1.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line baking sheet with silicone baking mat. Divide Parmesan cheese into 6 mounds on baking mat, and flatten using back of spoon. Bake 3 to 4 minutes, or until cheese melts into lacy rounds. Cool completely. Remove from baking sheet with spatula; set aside.
2.
Melt butter in large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, and saute 5 to 7 minutes, or until soft. Add broth, asparagus stalks, and thyme; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover pan, and simmer 15 to 20 minutes or until asparagus is tender.
3.
Meanwhile, cook asparagus tips in boiling, salted water 2 minutes, or until just tender. Drain, and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
4.
Puree soup in blender or food processor until smooth. Return to pan, and stir in milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with asparagus tips and Parmesan crisps.
Nutrition information
Calories 110, Total Fat 6 g, Saturated Fat 4 g, Cholesterol 17 mg, Sodium 431 mg, Carbohydrate 10 g, Fiber 3 g, Protein 5 g, Sugars 5 g
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet
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