Puréeing an aromatic rice (such as basmati or jasmine) adds delicate flavor and creates a creamy, non-dairy soup base when blended with broth and veggies (in this case, asparagus) until smooth. This recipe also works well with 2 lb. broccoli—just reserve 1 cup florets to stir in at the end, the same way you add the asparagus tips.

Ingredients

Serves 8

2 lb. asparagus

2 Tbs. olive oil

2 medium-sized onions, chopped (about 3 cups)

2/3 cup uncooked basmati or jasmine rice

2 low-sodium vegetable bouillon cubes

2 sprigs thyme

Directions

1. Trim ends from asparagus, and cut into 1/2-inch pieces, reserving tips. Set asparagus aside.
2. Heat oil in large pot over medium heat. Add onions, and sauté 5 minutes, or until soft. Stir in asparagus pieces, rice, bouillon cubes, thyme and 8 cups water. Reduce heat, cover and cook 30 to 35 minutes, or until rice is very tender. Remove thyme sprigs.

Transfer soup to blender or food processor in 2 batches (or use an immersion blender), and purée until smooth. Return soup to pot, and add asparagus tips. Simmer 1 to 2 minutes over low heat, or until asparagus tips are bright green and crisp-tender. Ladle soup into bowls, and serve immediately.