Creamy asparagus soup

Ingredients

1. 2 cups peeled and diced potatoes
2. 1/2 pound fresh asparagus, cut into 1/4-inch pieces
3. 1/2 cup chopped onion
4. 2 stalks celery, chopped
5. 4 cups water
6. 2 tablespoons butter
7. 1/2 cup whole-wheat flour
8. 1 1/2 cups fat-free milk
9. Lemon zest, to taste
10. Cracked black pepper, to taste

Directions

In a large soup pot over high heat, combine the potatoes, asparagus, onions, celery and water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Cover and simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes. Stir in the butter.

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk. Pour the mixture slowly into the soup pot, stirring all the time. Increase the heat to medium-high. Keep stirring until the soup thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Season with lemon zest and cracked black pepper. Serve in warmed bowls.