Celery Clam Soup
A chilled, creamy clam soup infused with celery and thyme, complemented by sweet carrot sticks, perfect for a refreshing appetizer or light summer meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour the cream of celery soup, clam juice, and thyme into a saucepan.
- Stir over low heat until the mixture is smooth.
- Cover and chill the soup in the refrigerator.
- Scrape the carrot and cut into sticks.
- Cook the carrot sticks in boiling salted water until tender.
- Drain the cooked carrots and chill them.
- Just before serving, mix the chilled carrots into the cold soup.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream. You can substitute fresh thyme with dried thyme if needed, though use less since dried herbs are more potent. If you want to add more seafood flavor, a bit of minced clams can enhance the dish. Pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chilled soup in bowls, garnished with additional thyme leaves for a fresh touch. This soup makes a delightful starter or a light lunch option. It pairs beautifully with a simple salad or crusty bread. For a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside Tuna Melts or a light seafood dish like Crabmeat Delight.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the soup in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid boiling, as this can affect the texture. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Celery Clam Soup contains roughly 188 calories, with 7g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (181% of the Daily Value), iron (102% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (85% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 18g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh clams instead of clam juice?
Yes, you can use fresh clams for a more robust flavor. Just steam them until they open, then reserve the cooking liquid to use in place of clam juice. This adjustment will give your soup a fresher taste and a delightful texture from the whole clams.
Is there a way to make this soup vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the clam juice and replace it with vegetable broth. You can also add diced potatoes or other vegetables like zucchini for added texture and flavor. The cream of celery soup adds a nice base, making it still delicious and satisfying.
How can I enhance the flavor of the soup?
You can enhance the flavor by adding sautéed onions or garlic to the base before mixing in the other ingredients. A splash of lemon juice just before serving can also brighten the flavors. For those who enjoy spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).