Roasted Celery and Potato Soup

This Roasted Celery and Potato Soup is a comforting dish that showcases the delightful flavors of roasted vegetables. Perfect for chilly days or as a satisfying meal anytime, this vegan soup recipe brings nostalgia with every spoonful. Packed with nutrients and made from simple ingredients, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover veggies while being both hearty and healthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this soup comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Filling: The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables, resulting in a rich, savory flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the soup by adding your favorite herbs or extra vegetables based on what you have at home.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins from celery, potatoes, and mushrooms, this soup is not only delicious but good for you.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Roasted Celery and Potato Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large roasting pan
• Pot for simmering
• Blender or immersion blender
• Spoon for stirring

Importance of Each Tool

• Large roasting pan: Ideal for evenly roasting the celery and other vegetables, ensuring they develop a great flavor.
• Pot for simmering: Necessary for combining all ingredients and letting the flavors meld beautifully.
• Blender or immersion blender: Helps achieve a smooth consistency in your soup, making it creamy without dairy.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this delightful soup:

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 stalk of celery (about 10 ribs, root part trimmed off and discarded)
• 1 pound Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 5 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced)
• 2 teaspoons dry thyme
• 7 cups water or vegetable stock

For Serving

• 1 cup elbow pasta
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Paprika or red pepper flakes
• Fresh dill or parsley
• Extra virgin olive oil

How to Make Roasted Celery and Potato Soup

Step 1: Roast the Celery

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large roasting pan, toss the trimmed celery with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Spread them out in an even layer. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms and Potatoes

While the celery roasts, heat another tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced cremini mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture, about 5 minutes. Then add diced Yukon gold potatoes and dry thyme, stirring well.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

After roasting the celery, add it to the pot with mushrooms and potatoes. Pour in 7 cups of water or vegetable stock. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes until all vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Blend the Potatoes and Celery

Using an immersion blender or regular blender (in batches if needed), blend the soup until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

In a separate pot, cook elbow pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: To Serve

Ladle hot soup into bowls. Add cooked pasta on top of each serving. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with paprika or red pepper flakes for an added kick! Garnish with fresh dill or parsley before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Roasted Celery and Potato Soup, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Roasted Celery and Potato Soup

Roasted celery and potato soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enhance your dining experience by pairing it with various toppings and side dishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your soup.

Toppings for Extra Flavor

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped dill or parsley on top for a burst of freshness.
• Spices: Add a dash of paprika or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil: A swirl of extra virgin olive oil can enhance the flavor profile.

Accompaniments for Texture

• Crunchy Croutons: Top your soup with homemade or store-bought croutons to add a satisfying crunch.
• Toasted Seeds: Pumpkin or sunflower seeds provide a nutty flavor and added texture.

Complementary Beverages

• Herbal Tea: A light herbal tea pairs well, balancing the warmth of the soup.
• Sparkling Water: A refreshing sparkling water adds a nice contrast without overpowering the soup.

How to Perfect Roasted Celery and Potato Soup

Perfecting your roasted celery and potato soup involves attention to detail. Follow these tips for an outstanding result.

• Bold flavor through roasting: Roast the celery and potatoes until they are golden brown to deepen their flavors.
• Use quality stock: Opt for homemade vegetable stock or high-quality store-bought options for better taste.
• Blend thoroughly: Ensure that you blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy for the best texture.
• Season well during cooking: Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper in stages to build flavor.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to try different herbs like rosemary or oregano to find your perfect combination.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Celery and Potato Soup

Pairing roasted celery and potato soup with complementary side dishes can create a complete meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup.
2. Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup.
3. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers add a smoky flavor that enhances the overall meal experience.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These can be filled with grains, beans, or vegetables, offering additional nutrients alongside your soup.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette adds protein and complements the flavors of the soup.
6. Savory Scones: Cheese or herb scones provide a hearty option that pairs well with a warm bowl of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Roasted Celery and Potato Soup to new heights.

• Using too much water: If you add excessive water, the soup will be bland. Stick to the recommended 7 cups for optimal flavor.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can dull your soup’s taste. Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices before serving.
• Overcooking vegetables: Overcooking can lead to mushy textures. Roast until tender but still firm for the best results.
• Skipping blending: Not blending the soup may result in a chunky texture instead of a smooth consistency. Blend thoroughly for that creamy finish.
• Ignoring garnishes: Garnishes might seem optional, but they add freshness and flavor. Don’t skip the fresh dill or parsley on top!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers for best preservation.

Freezing Roasted Celery and Potato Soup

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

Reheating Roasted Celery and Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot while stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Roasted Celery and Potato Soup?

Roasted Celery and Potato Soup is a comforting vegan soup made with roasted celery, Yukon gold potatoes, and mushrooms. It’s creamy yet light, perfect for any meal.

Can I customize my Roasted Celery and Potato Soup?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like carrots or spinach. Changing herbs can also create different flavor profiles.

How do I make Roasted Celery and Potato Soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply substitute elbow pasta with gluten-free pasta options available in stores.

Can I use stock instead of water in this recipe?

Yes! Using vegetable stock instead of water will enhance the flavor of your Roasted Celery and Potato Soup significantly.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Celery and Potato Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or herbs according to your preference. Give it a try; it’s a delightful way to enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of comfort food!