This Celery Soup is the ultimate comfort food, creamy, velvety, and full of fresh vegetable goodness. The combination of tender celery, soft potatoes, and a rich vegetable stock makes it a perfect starter or light meal.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!It’s a simple dish that’s easy to make and yet packs so much flavor. The texture is smooth and satisfying, and the addition of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness. Whether you enjoy it as a lunch, appetizer, or dinner, this celery soup is bound to warm you up and leave you feeling nourished.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
-
1 tbsp olive oil
-
1 onion, chopped
-
2 celery sticks, chopped
-
1 large potato, peeled and diced
-
2 garlic cloves, minced
-
4 cups vegetable stock
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
-
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened.
-
Add the celery, potato, and garlic to the pot and cook for 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Pour in the vegetable stock, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
-
Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth, or transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
-
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Health Benefits of Celery Soup
Celery, the star ingredient of this soup, is packed with health benefits. Rich in fiber, it promotes digestion and supports gut health. The antioxidants found in celery, such as flavonoids, are known to reduce inflammation and help combat oxidative stress. Celery is also a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, potassium, and folate. These nutrients contribute to healthy bones, muscle function, and a robust immune system.
Potatoes, another key ingredient in this recipe, are a fantastic source of carbohydrates and provide energy. They are also rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure. Together, celery and potatoes create a well-balanced soup that not only tastes great but also offers a variety of nutrients to fuel your body.
Moreover, celery soup is relatively low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal without consuming too many calories. The combination of fresh vegetables and vegetable stock creates a nutritious and filling dish, perfect for anyone trying to maintain a healthy weight.
Why You Should Make Celery Soup
One of the greatest things about celery soup is its versatility. You can modify the recipe to suit your personal taste or dietary restrictions. For instance, if you prefer a richer soup, you can add a splash of cream or coconut milk to make it creamier. On the other hand, if you’re looking to keep it lighter, the recipe as is will still provide a deliciously satisfying meal without the added fats. Additionally, you can add herbs and spices like thyme, bay leaves, or a pinch of nutmeg to give the soup an extra layer of flavor.
Celery soup is also a great option for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in the fridge for several days or freeze it for later use. The flavors tend to deepen over time, making it a perfect dish for leftovers. Its simplicity and convenience make it an ideal recipe for busy individuals who still want to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Celery Soup Vegan and Dairy-Free
Making this celery soup vegan and dairy-free is incredibly easy. The base of the soup is already plant-based, as it uses vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. To ensure the soup remains dairy-free, simply omit any cream or cheese that might typically be added to thicken the soup or provide creaminess. If you’d like a creamy texture, consider using plant-based milk such as almond milk, coconut milk, or cashew cream. These alternatives will give the soup a rich and velvety finish without compromising its vegan-friendly status.
You can also use nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor to the soup without using any dairy products. This is especially helpful for those who are vegan or lactose-intolerant but still crave that creamy, savory richness in their soups.
Tips for Perfect Celery Soup
-
Use Fresh Celery: The freshness of your celery will significantly impact the flavor of the soup. Choose celery that is crisp and vibrant in color, with no wilting or yellowing leaves. Fresh celery will give the soup a more intense and aromatic flavor.
-
Adjust the Texture: Some people prefer a chunky soup, while others like it smooth. If you enjoy a bit of texture in your soup, simply blend it partially, leaving some chunks of celery and potato for extra bite. If you prefer a creamy, smooth texture, blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency.
-
Seasoning: Be sure to taste the soup as you go along and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Adding salt and pepper is a must, but feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or even a dash of cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat.
-
Serve with Toppings: While celery soup is delicious on its own, adding a few toppings can elevate the dish even further. Try a dollop of vegan cream or a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds for a crunchy contrast. A drizzle of olive oil or a handful of fresh herbs can add a burst of freshness and color.
Serving Suggestions
Celery soup is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. If you want a heartier meal, serve the soup with a slice of whole-grain bread or a crisp salad on the side. You could also add a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots or parsnips, to enhance the flavors of the soup. For a more indulgent treat, enjoy the soup with a warm, buttery roll or garlic bread.
The soup also makes a great appetizer for a larger meal, especially when paired with a fresh, green salad or a simple pasta dish. It’s light yet filling, making it the perfect way to start off a dinner gathering or a holiday meal.
Celery Soup Variations
While this recipe for celery soup is simple and delicious, there are plenty of ways to change things up and make it your own. Consider adding other vegetables, such as leeks, carrots, or parsnips, to give the soup more depth. You can also experiment with different types of stock or broth—vegetable, mushroom, or even a mix of different broths can change the flavor profile of the soup.
For a more hearty soup, try adding lentils or beans. These can be added to the soup during the cooking process and will not only bulk up the dish but also provide additional protein and fiber. Adding some greens, such as spinach or kale, can also boost the soup’s nutritional value while providing a lovely color contrast.
Conclusion
Celery soup is a simple yet flavorful dish that offers a range of benefits for your health and your palate. Its fresh, clean flavors and creamy texture make it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a healthy, satisfying meal. Whether you choose to enjoy it on a cold winter day or as a light appetizer, this soup is sure to please. With its versatility and ease of preparation, celery soup is a dish that can be adapted to suit your dietary needs and taste preferences. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor or comfort. Try making this simple yet delicious soup today and experience the warmth and nourishment it brings to your table.