Celery-Tomato Soup
A warm, comforting celery-tomato soup with fresh herbs, perfect for a light lunch or starter, showcasing bright flavors and a smooth, hearty texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine over medium heat.
- Add celery, onion, and 3 tablespoons of chicken broth; cook, stirring frequently, for 6 to 7 minutes until the onion is soft.
- If liquid begins to evaporate, add a bit more broth.
- Add remaining chicken broth, parsley, thyme, and black pepper; bring to a boil.
- Cover, lower heat, and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add tomatoes, sugar, and salt; stir to combine well.
- Simmer, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Celery-Tomato Soup, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. If fresh thyme isn't available, dried thyme works as a suitable substitute—just use half the amount. For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the tomatoes. Adjust the seasoning based on your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a light salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside the Festive Chicken Fruit Salad, which complements the soup's flavors. Enjoy with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, adding a little extra broth or water if it thickens too much. You can also microwave it in a bowl, covered, for quick reheating, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Celery-Tomato Soup contains roughly 922 calories, with 37g protein, 202g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (325% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (311% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1657mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).
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 vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! Using vegetable broth is a great way to make this soup vegetarian-friendly while still providing a rich flavor. Just ensure to season it well to enhance the taste.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, try incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the onions and celery. You can also top the soup with a swirl of hot sauce before serving for an extra kick.
Is it possible to freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze Celery-Tomato Soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
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).