Spring Asparagus Soup (serves: 4 entrée servings or 6 first course servings)
This elegant soup is made often in our house, when Asparagus is at its best.
Ingredients:
2 teaspoons basil olive oil
2 teaspoons organic butter
½ onion, chopped
1 bunch asparagus, chopped (broccoli may be substituted)
6 oz. spinach
½ cup cilantro, chopped
3 cups organic chicken stock or vegetable stock
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 pinch cayenne
1.) Over medium high heat, heat oil & butter in 3 qt. soup pot.
2.) Add onion and sauté until tender, but not brown.
3.) Add asparagus and sauté for 3 minutes.
4.) Add spinach, cilantro, 1 cup of stock, lemon juice and seasonings, cover, reduce heat to low and simmer for 4 minutes.
5.) Place all ingredients in blender, add remaining stock and puree until smooth.
6.) Return to soup pot and bring to full heat.
Season to taste, and garnish with fresh cilantro sprig. A drizzle of cream is optional.
Wine Pairing: Groth Vineyards, Napa Valley, 2008 Sauvignon Blanc
Essence of citrus and hints of melon make this wine nicely balanced. Crisp yet full and well rounded.