Go Back

Instant Pot Asparagus Soup

A bright, velvety asparagus soup prepared in the pressure cooker for a streamlined and flavorful result. Onion, garlic, and potato create a savory base, while lemon juice adds a fresh finish and basil contributes a subtle herbal note.
Print Pin
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Instant Pot Asparagus Soup
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 23 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds fresh asparagus cleaned and woody ends removed
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 large sweet onion cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 6 garlic cloves finely minced
  • 1 large potato peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil plus extra for garnish if desired
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes optional, for serving

Instructions

  • Set the Instant Pot to the sauté setting on high for 3 minutes. When the insert is hot, add the olive oil, followed by the onion, garlic, and potato. Cook, stirring often, until the vegetables begin to soften and nothing sticks to the bottom.
  • Pour in the vegetable broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the base of the pot. Add the asparagus, setting aside 6 to 8 pieces for garnish. Stir in the thyme, basil, salt, and black pepper, then secure and seal the lid.
  • Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking cycle ends, perform a controlled quick release. After all pressure has been released, open the lid carefully.
  • Blend the soup in the pot with an immersion blender until fully smooth. Stir in the lemon juice, then taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  • Using tongs, dip the reserved asparagus pieces into the hot soup for 10 to 20 seconds to lightly cook them. Ladle the soup into serving bowls and top each portion with the reserved asparagus. Finish with extra basil and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired.

Notes

Reserve several asparagus tips before pressure cooking for a simple garnish.
A controlled quick release helps prevent splattering after pressure cooking.
Red pepper flakes are optional but provide a gentle heat contrast to the soup’s fresh, mild flavor.