Vegetable Soup with Celery and Tomatoes

When it comes to creating a warm, comforting meal, nothing beats a hearty vegetable soup. This recipe for vegetable soup with celery and tomatoes is a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the natural goodness of fresh vegetables. With a base of tomatoes and celery, this soup is light, vibrant, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, this vegetable soup is sure to become a favorite.

Using fresh ingredients, the soup offers a balance of textures and flavors, combining the crunch of celery with the sweetness of tomatoes, while the broth ties everything together into a harmonious blend.

Ingredients:

• Celery – 3 stalks, chopped
• Tomatoes – 4 large, diced
• Carrots – 2 medium-sized, sliced
• Potatoes – 2 medium-sized, peeled and cubed
• Onion – 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Vegetable broth – 6 cups
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
• Salt – to taste
• Pepper – to taste
• Bay leaf – 1
• Fresh parsley – for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by preparing all the vegetables. Wash and chop the celery into small pieces, peel and cube the potatoes, slice the carrots, dice the tomatoes, and chop the onion. Mince the garlic and set everything aside.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

3. Add the Vegetables

Once the onion and garlic are fragrant, add the chopped celery, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Stir the vegetables to coat them in the oil, allowing them to cook for about 5 minutes. This step helps to enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables before adding the broth.

4. Pour in the Vegetable Broth

Next, pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring all the vegetables are fully submerged. Add the diced tomatoes and the bay leaf. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

5. Season the Soup

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a slightly tangier flavor, you can add a small splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar at this stage. Continue to simmer the soup for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to fully meld together.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the vegetables are cooked and the flavors are well combined, remove the bay leaf and discard it. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. The parsley adds a fresh, bright flavor to the soup and a pop of color. Serve the soup warm with a side of crusty bread or crackers.

Serving Suggestions:

This vegetable soup with celery and tomatoes is perfect as a light meal on its own or as a starter for a larger meal. You can pair it with a simple green salad or warm bread for a complete and satisfying meal. If you're looking for a heartier option, you can serve the soup alongside grilled vegetables or rice.

This soup is also ideal for meal prep, as the flavors develop even more when stored. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, either as a quick lunch or a light dinner.

Tips for Making the Perfect Vegetable Soup:

• Tomatoes: Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, you can use canned diced tomatoes as a substitute. The sweetness of the tomatoes adds a lovely contrast to the savory celery and potatoes.

• Vegetable Broth: For a richer flavor, use homemade vegetable broth if possible. Store-bought vegetable broth works just as well, but adding a bay leaf and a few fresh herbs can boost the flavor of the broth.

• Customizing Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach would make great additions and can help bulk up the soup.

• Blending: For a creamier texture, you can blend half of the soup using an immersion blender. This creates a thick, creamy base while still leaving chunks of vegetables for texture.

Variations:

• Add Protein: For a more filling soup, add a source of protein like chickpeas, lentils, or white beans. These additions not only make the soup heartier but also add texture and extra nutrients.

• Spice it Up: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. The spice complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and the earthiness of the celery.

• Herb Options: While parsley is a great garnish, you can also use other fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or thyme to change the flavor profile of the soup.

• Add Grains: For an even more substantial dish, you can add cooked grains like quinoa, rice, or barley to the soup. This adds texture and makes it a heartier meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This vegetable soup with celery and tomatoes is a versatile, wholesome dish that’s full of fresh flavors. The combination of tomatoes and celery provides a bright, refreshing taste, while the potatoes and carrots add a hearty, comforting element. The soup is easy to make, with minimal prep time and simple ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for busy days.

Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a flavorful side dish, this vegetable soup is perfect for any occasion. It’s comforting, delicious, and can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.

Make-Ahead Tips:

This soup is perfect for meal prep and can be made in advance. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as the soup sits, making it even more delicious the next day. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

The soup also freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a little extra broth if needed to refresh the flavors.

Conclusion:

This vegetable soup with celery and tomatoes is a delightful dish that celebrates the freshness and natural flavors of vegetables. The balance of sweet tomatoes, crunchy celery, and hearty potatoes makes for a satisfying and nourishing meal. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, this soup is easy to make and perfect for any time of year.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade vegetable soup that’s packed with flavor and goodness!