13 Mar 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
2 tbsp butter
1 onion
1/4 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
2 cups peas
1.50 lb asparagus
4 cups chicken gravy
1/2 cup light sour cream
1 sheet puff pastry
1 egg
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
This light pea and asparagus soup with parmesan pastries is a perfect way to enjoy fresh, seasonal vegetables in a hearty and delicious meal. The combination of sweet peas, tender asparagus, and creamy chicken gravy creates a flavorful and satisfying soup, while the parmesan pastries add a delightful crunchy texture. This recipe is great for a light lunch or a sophisticated appetizer for dinner parties.
Instructions:
1. Preparation:
- Begin by preparing the onion by finely chopping it. Trim the ends of the asparagus and chop them into 1-inch pieces.
2. Sauté the Onion:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Make the Roux:
- Stir in the flour gradually to the sautéed onions, mixing well to form a roux. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
4. Add the Vegetables:
- Add the peas and chopped asparagus to the pot. Stir to combine with the roux and onions.
5. Add the Chicken Gravy:
- Gradually pour in the chicken gravy, stirring continuously to ensure there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
6. Simmer the Soup:
- Allow the soup to simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the asparagus is tender.
7. Blend the Soup:
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only a portion of it or use a regular blender and blend in batches.
8. Add Sour Cream:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the light sour cream until well combined. Heat through but do not boil.
9. Seasoning:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
1. Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth the surface. Cut the puff pastry into desired shapes (squares, strips, or any shape you prefer).
3. Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, beat the egg. Brush the tops of the puff pastry pieces with the beaten egg to create a golden finish when baked.
4. Add Parmesan Cheese:
- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly over the egg-washed pastry pieces.
5. Bake:
- Place the prepared puff pastries on the lined baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until they are puffed and golden brown.
6. Cool:
- Once baked, transfer the pastries to a wire rack to cool slightly.
Tips:
- Make sure to finely chop the onion to ensure it cooks evenly and enhances the flavors of the soup.
- Use fresh or frozen peas depending on what is available. If using frozen peas, thaw them before cooking.
- Trim the woody ends of the asparagus and cut them into bite-sized pieces for the best texture in the soup.
- For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup after cooking and then mix it back in.
- Serve the parmesan pastries warm from the oven for the best texture and flavor.
- If you don't have chicken gravy, you can use chicken broth or stock as an alternative.
In conclusion, this light pea and asparagus soup, paired with crispy parmesan pastries, offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. It's an easy-to-follow recipe that brings the goodness of fresh vegetables to your table. Whether you are looking for a comforting meal or an elegant starter, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy your culinary creation with family and friends and savor the delightful combination of tastes.