Asparagus and onion soup with mustard and lemon zest

This asparagus and onion soup is a light, zesty dish featuring sautéed vegetables blended with mustard and lemon zest for added flavor. It's a nutritious and quick recipe ideal for lunch or as a starter.

16 Feb 2026
Cook time 28 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 lb asparagus
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
3 cups vegetable broth
1/4 tsp mustard
1 tsp lemon zest
Asparagus and onion soup with mustard and lemon zest

Asparagus and onion soup with mustard and lemon zest is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines the rich flavors of fresh asparagus and onions with the tangy hints of mustard and lemon zest. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a light lunch or a starter for dinner, offering both nutrition and taste in every bite.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Asparagus: Wash and trim the rough ends off the asparagus. Cut into 1-inch pieces, setting aside a few tips for garnish if desired.
- Onion: Peel and finely chop the onion.
- Garlic: Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, add a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, sautéing until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add Broth and Asparagus:
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil.
- Add the asparagus pieces to the boiling broth.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender.
4. Blend the Soup:
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be cautious with the hot liquid.
- Return the soup to the pot if you used a regular blender.
5. Season the Soup:
- Stir in the mustard and lemon zest.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Final Adjustments:
- If the soup seems too thick, you can thin it out with a bit more broth or water.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with the reserved asparagus tips for an appealing presentation.
- Optionally, you can sprinkle a bit more lemon zest on top or add a drizzle of olive oil.
8. Enjoy:
- Serve hot with your favorite crusty bread on the side. Enjoy the flavorful, zesty soup!

This asparagus and onion soup is not only simple to prepare but also a burst of fresh flavors in every spoonful. The delicate asparagus, combined with the mild sweetness of onions and the zing of mustard and lemon zest, creates a harmonious blend that is sure to impress. Enjoy this soup as a wholesome appetizer or a light meal, and relish in its vibrant and savory taste.

Asparagus and onion soup with mustard and lemon zest FAQ:

How long should I cook the asparagus in the soup?

Simmer the asparagus in the broth for about 10-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender.

Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen asparagus. However, reduce the cooking time slightly as frozen asparagus may cook faster than fresh.

What type of mustard is best for this soup?

A mild mustard, like Dijon or yellow mustard, works well to add tang without overpowering the flavors.

How should I store leftover soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, ensure that the vegetable broth is plant-based, and the recipe is already vegan as it contains no animal products.

Tips:

- Choose fresh asparagus: Look for firm, bright green stalks with closed tips to ensure the best flavor and texture.

- Sauté onions and garlic: Cooking the onions and garlic until they are soft and fragrant before adding the asparagus and broth enhances the overall depth of flavor.

- Blend for smoothness: Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup in batches to a blender to achieve a creamy, smooth consistency.

- Adjust seasoning: After blending, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed to suit your preference.

- Garnish creatively: Consider garnishing the soup with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or even a few asparagus tips to make it visually appealing and add extra flavor.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 44kcal
Protein 3.26g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fiber 2.95g
Sugar 4.74g
Fat 0.29g

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