mission totally possible: dinner in 25 minutes

my friend lyd told me this weekend that i was doing a great job making people think that "eating sustainably" was hard work.

*whoopsie*

that's actually the exact opposite of what i'm trying to do, so to that end, tonight i'm posting a recipe where you can make a very tasty dinner in 25 minutes, including prep time. for reals!

and any leftovers you may have are great even if you eat it cold. (which i did today, when i had it for lunch.)

Asparagus & Leek Soup
1 pound asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
3 medium leeks, white and pale green parts only, finely chopped and washed well
1 garlic clove, chopped finely
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups chicken stock
1/4 cup sour cream
salt and white pepper to taste

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add leek and garlic and cook until the leek is softened, stirring occasionally. Add asparagus and broth, and simmer, covered, until the asparagus is very tender, about 10 minutes. Using an immersion blender, purée the asparagus mixture in pan until smooth. Add sourcream and purée until fully incorporated, then add salt and pepper to taste.

I served this with a grilled-cheese sandwich (you can start it while you wait for the asparagus to cook), so the soup serves 4. If you're going to just have soup, then serves 2. Recipe for my most favorite way of making grilled cheese is below (lightly buttery, cheesy, crispy goodness).


Caroline's Favorite "Grilled Cheese" Sandwich
4 slices bread from country loaf
4 slices extra sharp cheddar cheese
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Toast bread in toaster oven on light setting. Spread half tbsp butter and place slice of cheese on each slice of bread. Toast again until cheese is bubbling. Assemble sandwiches, cut in half diagonally, and serve immediately. Serves 4.

(If your toaster oven isn't big enough for all 4 slices, you can do this in the oven: Preheat to 425 deg. Toast bread for 5-7 minutes. Spread half tbsp butter and place slice of cheese on each slice of bread. Toast for 5 minutes longer, or until cheese is bubbling. Assemble sandwiches, cut in half diagonally, and serve immediately. Serves 4.)