Ditch the boring bowls and get ready to experience the rich, vibrant flavor of this Carrot and Celery Soup sensation. It’s healthy, it’s fun, and it’s practically a celebration in a bowl! This soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, it offers a burst of flavors that will invigorate your taste buds and make you fall in love with veggies all over again.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: 63.3 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, grated
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon butter
- 2 carrots, diced (about 2 cups)
- 2 cups diced celery (½-inch cubes)
- 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning (or ½ teaspoon each of basil, oregano, and thyme)
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
- 3 cups low sodium vegetable or chicken stock (or water)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Garnish
- A few fresh celery leaves
- Fresh thyme leaves or parsley (optional)
Directions
- Sauté:
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium-low heat.
- Add the bay leaf and chopped onion, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the grated ginger and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced carrots and celery, and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Simmer:
- Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red chili flakes.
- Pour in the stock or water, and bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft.
- Blend:
- Scoop out 2 cups of the soup, allowing it to cool slightly.
- Blend the scooped-out soup until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes.
- Stir in the lemon juice and black pepper, adjusting salt as needed.
- Remove and discard the bay leaf.
- Garnish:
- Lightly brush a pan with olive oil and fry fresh celery leaves on low heat until crisp.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with the crispy celery leaves and fresh herbs.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.
Cooking Tips
- For a creamier consistency, blend the entire pot of soup using an immersion blender.
- Customize the seasoning by adding your favorite herbs or spices to enhance the flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Carrots: High in beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants, promoting eye health and boosting the immune system.
- Celery: Low in calories, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: This soup is naturally gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Option: Omit the butter for a dairy-free version.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use vegetable stock to make it suitable for a vegan diet.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave, stirring occasionally, or on the stovetop over low heat until hot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup is a delightful blend of simplicity and rich flavor. Quick to prepare, healthy, and incredibly delicious, it’s a perfect way to enjoy a nutritious meal without much fuss. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a visual delight. Ideal for a cozy night in or as a refreshing appetizer, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Conclusion
Relish the hearty and satisfying flavors of this Carrot and Celery Soup. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, offering a delicious and nutritious meal that’s easy to make. Share it with loved ones and enjoy the warmth and comfort of a homemade bowl of goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use other vegetables in this soup?
- Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, or even bell peppers to enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.
- What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
- If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can use a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme, or substitute with herbs like rosemary or marjoram.
- Can I make this soup in advance?
- Yes, this soup can be made in advance. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.
- How can I make this soup creamier without using dairy?
- To make the soup creamier without dairy, blend a portion or all of the soup, or add a bit of coconut milk or cashew cream for richness.
- Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
- Yes, fresh herbs can be used. Remember to add them towards the end of cooking to retain their flavor and freshness.
- Is this soup spicy?
- The red chili flakes add a mild kick, but it’s not overly spicy. You can adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your spice preference.
- What can I use instead of lemon juice?
- You can substitute lemon juice with lime juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a similar tangy effect.
- Can I freeze the soup with the garnishes?
- It’s best to freeze the soup without the garnishes. Add fresh garnishes after reheating for the best texture and flavor.
- Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen carrots and celery if fresh ones aren’t available. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- How do I make the soup thicker?
- To thicken the soup, you can either blend more of the vegetables or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water during the simmering stage.