Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Celery and Carrot Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The celery adds a subtle earthiness, while the carrots provide a touch of sweetness, creating a balanced and soothing flavor profile. It’s incredibly easy to make and requires just a few basic ingredients. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and can be made gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a detox soup or simply a comforting bowl to enjoy on a chilly day, this recipe will surely satisfy.
Ingredients
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4 cups celery, chopped
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2 cups carrots, peeled and chopped
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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4 cups vegetable broth
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
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1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
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½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
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1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added freshness)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
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Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
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Add the chopped celery and carrots to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Pour in the vegetable broth, and stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
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Once the vegetables are tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
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Serve hot, and enjoy your healthy bowl of celery and carrot soup!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4-6
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 30 minutes
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Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
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Add potatoes: For a heartier soup, you can add peeled and chopped potatoes. They’ll add creaminess once blended.
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Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
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Add greens: For extra nutrition, add spinach, kale, or chard to the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
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Add herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can be added for extra freshness and flavor.
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Creamy version: For a creamier texture, you can add coconut milk or a splash of almond milk after blending the soup.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
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Freezing: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot over low to medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for longer storage.
2. Can I make this soup creamy without dairy?
Yes! You can make the soup creamy by adding coconut milk, almond milk, or any non-dairy milk of your choice.
3. Is this soup suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, this soup is low in carbs, making it suitable for those on a low-carb or keto diet. Just be mindful of the serving size if you’re strictly counting carbs.
4. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like parsnips, leeks, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
5. Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, you can substitute chicken broth if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor slightly.
6. Can I make this soup without a blender?
Yes, you can leave the soup chunky if you don’t have a blender. Simply cook the vegetables until tender, and skip the blending step for a heartier soup.
7. How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, consider adding red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a chopped chili pepper during cooking.
8. Can I add protein to this soup?
Yes! You can add cooked lentils, beans, or even shredded chicken for extra protein and to make the soup more filling.
9. How can I store this soup if I want to freeze it?
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
10. Can I use frozen carrots or celery for this soup?
Frozen carrots and celery can be used, though fresh vegetables may provide a slightly better texture. If using frozen, reduce the cooking time slightly as they may cook faster.
Conclusion
This Celery and Carrot Soup is a light, nutritious, and comforting option that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect meal for those seeking a low-calorie, vegan, or gluten-free dish that’s both satisfying and healthy. With simple ingredients and versatile variations, it can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a slice of crusty bread, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
PrintCelery and Carrot Soup
Celery and Carrot Soup is a light, healthy, and comforting dish made with fresh vegetables and a flavorful blend of seasonings. This vegan, low-calorie, and gluten-free soup is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With simple ingredients and customizable variations, this soup is both nourishing and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a detox option or just a warm, cozy meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 30min
- Total Time: 40min
- Yield: 4-6servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
4 cups celery, chopped
2 cups carrots, peeled and chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added freshness)
Instructions
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Heat Olive Oil:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. -
Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. -
Cook Vegetables:
Add the chopped celery and carrots, cooking for another 5 minutes while stirring occasionally. -
Add Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil. -
Simmer:
Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. -
Blend the Soup:
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth. -
Taste and Adjust:
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. -
Serve:
Serve hot and enjoy!