Why Make This Recipe
Carrot and Celery Soup is a delightful and healthy option for anyone looking to enjoy a warm, comforting dish. Packed with nutritious ingredients, this vegetarian broth offers a tasty way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. It is not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to tweak it according to your preferences. Plus, it is a great choice for a light meal or as a starter for a larger feast.
How to Make Carrot and Celery Soup
Ingredients:
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if not vegetarian)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional add-ins: diced potatoes, cooked lentils or beans, leafy greens like spinach or kale
Directions:
- Wash, peel, and chop the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in vegetable broth. Add the bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf. Adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with parsley or fresh herbs and serve hot.
How to Serve Carrot and Celery Soup
Serve the Carrot and Celery Soup hot in bowls. You can top it with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra flavor boost. This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad, making it a perfect option for lunch or dinner.
How to Store Carrot and Celery Soup
If you have leftover soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the soup. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it can last for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Carrot and Celery Soup
- Make sure to cut the vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
- Feel free to blend the soup for a creamy texture if you prefer. Just blend it in a blender and heat again before serving.
- Add some lemon juice or zest for a bright, refreshing flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize your soup.
Variation
You can add various ingredients to enhance the soup. Mixed beans or lentils make for a heartier dish. Leafy greens like spinach or kale can add more nutrition. Additionally, consider adding potatoes for a thicker consistency or even spices for a kick.
FAQs
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer for later use.
Is there a way to make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure to use gluten-free vegetable broth, and avoid adding any ingredients that contain gluten.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs can add a lovely flavor. You will typically want to use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
Carrot and Celery Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A delightful and healthy vegetarian soup packed with carrots and celery, perfect for a light meal or starter.
Ingredients
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: diced potatoes, cooked lentils or beans, leafy greens like spinach or kale
Instructions
- Wash, peel, and chop the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in vegetable broth. Add the bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf. Adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with parsley or fresh herbs and serve hot.
Notes
Cut vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking. Blend for a creamy texture if desired. Add lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Vegetarian