Introducing THRIVE Freeze Dried Asparagus

The last new product announcement for this Fall is... Freeze Dried Asparagus!  I have only had asparagus a few times in my life.  The first taste as a kid wasn't a winner (sorry Mom - but at least I did try it then).  Then I've tried it just a couple times as an adult.  I will admit it's not my favorite vegetable but I do like it now.  With this announcement from Shelf Reliance, I'm wondering what I can make with Asparagus.  So add links to your favorite asparagus recipes in the comments!

THRIVE Asparagus will add distinct flavor and color to your casseroles, soups, salads, and side dishes. THRIVE Asparagus is pre-chopped to save you time, and it’s freeze dried so it’s easy to keep on hand to toss into your favorite healthy recipes.

Ingredients: ASPARAGUS. Certified Gluten Free.

Rehydration Instructions:
Pour ½ cup lukewarm water over ½ cup THRIVE Asparagus and let sit for 2–3 minutes. Drain any excess water.

Of course, Shelf Reliance is not leaving us hanging with no ideas on what to do with this new product.  Chef Todd has shared his Creamy Smooth Asparagus Soup recipe, including a 6 minute video showing how to make it.

Creamy Smooth Asparagus Soup by Chef Todd Leonard, CEC Prep time: 25 min Serves 8
Ingredients		Instructions
1½ tbsp. garlic 1 tbsp. olive oil 4 c. THRIVE™ Asparagus (FD) ¾ c. THRIVE™ Chopped Onions (FD) 1 c. THRIVE™ Celery (FD) 4 c. water 1 tbsp. THRIVE™ Chicken Bouillon 1 tbsp. Italian seasoning 1½ tsp. THRIVE™ Iodized Salt ¼ tsp. pepper ¼ tsp. rice wine vinegar 2 c. heavy cream		In a 3-quart saucepan, sweat garlic and olive oil together. Add vegetables and stir. Add water and bouillon and stir well. Add all seasonings, cover with a lid, and simmer for about 10 minutes. Pour soup into a blender and blend until smooth. Pour back into pot, add cream, and bring to a simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Makes 8 servings. Serving Idea: Serve with crispy bacon and reconstituted THRIVE Asparagus and Red Bell Peppers placed at the center of each bowl of soup.