Fresh Asparagus Soup

  Move over double stuffed oreos, sour keys and mint chocolate ice cream.  Have I got news for you! First off, who enjoys the after math of pms or prego binging?  If you do your sick and this article is not for you.  All that junk may feel good at the time but thats about it.  How about trying something healthy that actually benefits your body?
  Asparagus has many health benefits but here are some you probably didn't know.  This low Cal veggie is packed full of vitamin A, C and K.  It also contains potassium, folic acid, fiber, niacin, calcium and magnesium. 
  Pregnant or planning on getting prego? Did you know the high level of folic acid and calcium are important in reducing birth defects and helping maintain a healthy weight in a fetus. 
  PMS? The diurectic effect can relieve swelling and bloating.  The magnesium also relieves irritability, fatigue and depression.  Also asparagus can work as a mild laxative.  So here is a great, easy, healthy recipe for you to try next time your feeling bitchy and bloated:

Fresh Asparagus Soup:
1 pound fresh asparagus
3/4 C onion
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 pinch ground black pepper
1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup soy milk
1/2 cup yogurt
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1. Place asparagus and onion in a saucepan with 1/2 cup vegetable broth. Bring the broth to a boil, reduce heat and let simmer until the vegetables are tender.
2. Reserve a few asparagus tips for garnish. Place remaining vegetable mixture in an electric blender and puree until smooth.
3. Melt butter in the pan that was used for simmering the asparagus and onions. Stir while sprinkling flour, salt, and pepper into the butter. Do not let the flour brown. Allow the mixture to cook only 2 minutes. Stir in remaining 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth and increase the heat. Continue stirring until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Stir the vegetable puree and milk into the saucepan. Whisk yogurt into the mixture, followed by lemon juice. Stir until heated through, then ladle into bowls. Garnish with reserved asparagus tips. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.  
5. This soup is rather sweet so I added hot sauce :) 

 Nutritional Value:
Calories: 134  Fat: 5.7  Protein: 7.7  Carbs:  14.9 Fiber: 3.2