The Best Carrot and Celery Soup

This Carrot and Celery Soup is low-fat, nutritious, and mildly sweet from the carrot. It's ideal for dipping freshly baked bread into. Enjoy this vegetable-rich cream of celery and carrot soup to stay warm and cozy. This flavorful vegetarian soup, which is healthful and substantial and is seasoned with parsley and leeks, is ideal for serving as a sit-down appetizer or an easy meal.

Looking for more easy-to-make dinner recipes? be sure to check my Instant Pot Red Lentil Soup, Carrot, and Lentil Soup, or this Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas.

Why you'll love it

• Rich flavor profile: The combination of carrots and celery creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The natural sweetness of carrots pairs beautifully with the mild, crisp taste of celery, resulting in a soup that is both comforting and refreshing.
• Creamy and smooth texture: By pureeing the cooked vegetables, you achieve a velvety texture that is incredibly satisfying. The creamy consistency adds a luxurious element to the soup, making each spoonful a delight.
• Nutritional powerhouse: Carrots and celery are both highly nutritious vegetables. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body and contributes to healthy vision and immune function. Celery is rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making it beneficial for digestion and hydration.
• Low in calories: If you're conscious of your calorie intake, carrot and celery soup is an ideal choice. It is low in calories but still provides essential nutrients, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or incorporate more vegetables into their diet.
• Versatility: While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, carrot and celery soup can also serve as a versatile base for experimentation. You can add other ingredients such as ginger, turmeric, or herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor and nutritional value. Additionally, you can customize the soup by adding protein sources like grilled chicken or lentils to make it more filling.
• Easy to make: The recipe for carrot and celery soup is straightforward and doesn't require any complex techniques or specialized equipment. With just a few simple steps, you can have a flavorful and nourishing soup ready to enjoy in no time.
• Comforting and satisfying: There's something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially on chilly days or when you're in need of a comforting meal. The combination of flavors, the creamy texture, and the nourishing qualities of carrot and celery soup make it a satisfying option that will leave you feeling content and nourished.

Making your own soups is a great way to warm your home, your body, and of course, your soul. This comforting celery and carrot soup are like a giant bear embraces!

This cream of celery soup is full of nutrients and has a flavor that is not overbearing. Grab a spoon and let's go!

Ingredients to make this carrot and celery soup

This is an overview of the ingredients needed to make this carrot and celery soup. The full list and detailed instructions are down below in the recipe card!

• Olive oil: To make the vegetables softer. If you would rather, you can just use oil.
  Celery, carrots, onions, and garlic
• Stock: I used vegetable stock in order to keep this soup vegetarian, but the chicken stock would also be excellent.
• Cream: For the silky and creamy texture, I used half and half. Both milk and table cream will work well; however, table cream will provide a richer and creamier soup. Milk has less fat but a thinner texture.
• Fresh herbs: To flavor the soup, we use fresh leeks and parsley. You can substitute dried herbs instead, but if you do, add them in as the vegetables are softening to give the flavors time to meld.
• Spices: in this recipe, I used some garlic powder, fresh black pepper, salt, and chili powder.

How to make Carrot and Celery Soup

This is an overview of the steps to make carrot and celery soup. For detailed instructions view the recipe card down below!

1. Prepare the vegetables:
   • Peel and roughly chop the carrots.
   • Wash and roughly chop the celery stalks.
   • Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
2. Sauté the aromatics:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot.
   • Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onions turn translucent and fragrant.
3. Cook the carrots and celery:
   • Add the chopped carrots and celery to the pot.
   • Stir well to combine the vegetables with the sautéed onions and garlic.
   • Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
4. Simmer the soup:
   • Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth into the pot.
   • Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
   • Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
   • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
   • Simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the carrots and celery are tender.
5. Blend the soup:
   • Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, carefully puree the soup until smooth.
   • If using a regular blender, blend the soup in batches, allowing it to cool slightly before blending.
   • Be cautious when blending hot liquids to prevent any accidents. Hold the lid firmly or use a kitchen towel to cover the blender.
6. Add the finishing touch:
   • Return the pureed soup to the pot and place it over low heat.
   • Stir in the almond milk (or any other milk of your choice) and adjust the seasoning if needed.
   • Allow the soup to heat through for a few minutes, ensuring it doesn't boil.
7. Serve and garnish:
   • Ladle the creamy carrot and celery soup into bowls.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness.
   • Serve hot and enjoy!

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

It's simple to customize this creamy celery and carrot soup to your preferences and dietary requirements.

• Ginger Twist:
  • Add a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and minced, to the soup while sautéing the onions and garlic.
  • Ginger adds a subtle heat and a refreshing note to the soup, complementing the flavors of carrot and celery.
• Turmeric Boost:
  • Incorporate 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric into the soup while adding the dried thyme.
  • Turmeric adds a vibrant yellow color and a warm, earthy flavor.
  • It also provides potential health benefits due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Creamy Coconut:
  • Substitute the unsweetened almond milk with coconut milk for a rich and creamy twist.
  • Coconut milk adds a tropical flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of carrots and the freshness of celery.
• Spiced Moroccan:
  • Add Moroccan-inspired spices such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon to the soup.
  • Start with ½ teaspoon of each spice and adjust according to your taste preferences.
  • These spices will give the soup an aromatic and slightly exotic flavor profile.
• Protein-packed:
  • Enhance the soup's nutritional value by adding protein sources such as cooked lentils, chickpeas, or diced grilled chicken.
  • Add them to the soup during the blending stage or as a garnish when serving.
• Herb Infusion:
  • Experiment with different herbs to infuse unique flavors into the soup.
  • Try rosemary, thyme, sage, or dill to add a distinctive herbal touch.
  • Start with ½ teaspoon of dried herbs or a few sprigs of fresh herbs and adjust to your liking.
• Sweet and Savory Balance:
  • For a touch of sweetness, add a small diced apple or a splash of apple cider to the soup.
  • The natural sweetness of apples complements the earthy flavors of carrots and celery.
• Creamy Vegan:
  • If you prefer a vegan version, replace the chicken or vegetable broth with vegetable stock.
  • Use a plant-based milk alternative like oat milk, cashew milk, or soy milk instead of almond milk.
  • Make sure to choose dairy-free and vegan options for all ingredients.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: Opt for fresh, vibrant carrots and crisp celery to ensure the best flavor and texture in your soup. Fresh ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final result.
• Sauté the aromatics well: Take your time to sauté the onions and garlic until they turn translucent and release their aroma. This process enhances their flavor and adds depth to the soup.
• Don't overcook the vegetables: While it's important to cook the carrots and celery until tender, be careful not to overcook them. Overcooking can lead to a loss of flavor and a duller color in the soup. Cook them until they are just soft enough to puree easily.
• Season in layers: Seasoning the soup at different stages will build flavor complexity. Season the onions and garlic as you sauté them, then season again when you add the broth. Taste and adjust the seasoning after blending and adding the milk to ensure a well-balanced flavor.
• Use an immersion blender for convenience: An immersion blender allows you to puree the soup directly in the pot, saving time and effort. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending and blend in batches, filling the blender no more than halfway to avoid accidents.
• Garnish: Elevate the presentation and flavor of your soup by garnishing it with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or cilantro. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added texture and visual appeal.
• Allow flavors to meld: After blending the soup and adding the milk, let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step helps intensify the taste and ensures that all the ingredients are well-incorporated.
• Make ahead and store properly: Carrot and celery soup can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for a few days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to adjust the consistency if needed.
• Experiment and customize: Feel free to adapt the recipe to your taste preferences. Adjust the seasoning, try different herbs or spices, and add your favorite protein or vegetable additions. Cooking is a creative process, so don't be afraid to make the recipe your own.

Storing and Freezing

I found that if you slowly defrost the soup in the fridge and then mix it while gently reheating, it turns out just fine. The common belief is that soups with dairy in them shouldn't be frozen since they can curdle when defrosted and reheated. Avoid heating it in the microwave.

The soup can be kept frozen for two to three months.

Can you make it ahead of time?

Soups are a fantastic choice for meals that may be prepared ahead of time. This soup of carrots and celery can be prepared in bulk and eaten all week long. After making the soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. For about 4 days, it will keep well in the refrigerator.

This recipe of carrots and celery soup is quite soothing. Any soup lover will find this dish to be quite addictive. It's also simple and quick to create. Make a pot and curl up!

More Easy and Quick recipes:

• Instant Pot Red Lentil Soup
• Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas
• Carrot and Lentil Soup
• Quick & Easy Gouda Mac and Cheese
• Easy Hash Brown Potato Soup (With Frozen Hash Browns)