Cream of celery soup is a classic soup that is beloved for its rich, creamy texture and robust celery flavor. While it can certainly be enjoyed on its own, having foods to pair with this soup makes for a more complete and satisfying meal.
Bread
Bread is one of the most traditional accompaniments for cream of celery soup. The starchiness of bread provides a pleasant contrast to the creamy soup. Bread also helps to soak up every last bit of the soup.
Some excellent bread options to serve with cream of celery soup include:
- Fresh baked bread or rolls
- Garlic bread
- Cheese bread
- Focaccia
- Croutons
For a more interactive experience, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls so guests can enjoy sopping up the soup with the bowl itself.
Salad
A salad makes for a lighter and more balanced meal when paired with a rich, creamy soup. The crunch of the salad greens and vegetables creates a nice textural contrast.
Some salad ideas to serve with cream of celery soup include:
- Wedge salad with blue cheese dressing
- Caesar salad
- Greek salad
- Spinach salad with cranberries, feta, andnuts
- Arugula salad with shaved Parmesan
For a more cohesive pairing, choose a salad containing some of the same ingredients that are in the soup, like celery, onions, carrots, and herbs.
Sandwiches
A sandwich and soup combo is a lunchtime classic. Sandwiches pair nicely with cream of celery soup, adding protein and heft.
Some sandwich options to consider include:
- Grilled cheese
- Roast beef on rye
- Chicken salad sandwich
- BLT
- Turkey club
For a twist on tradition, use the soup as a dip for the sandwich rather than serving it on the side.
Entrées
While soup is often thought of as an appetizer, cream of celery soup can also be paired with heartier entrées to make a satisfying meal.
Some entrée ideas to serve alongside cream of celery soup include:
- Chicken breast or thighs
- Pork chops
- Meatloaf
- Baked fish like cod or halibut
- Shrimp or scallops
Complement the flavor of the soup by seasoning the protein with herbs used in the soup, like parsley, thyme, sage, and rosemary.
Sides
Round out your cream of celery soup meal with some tasty side dishes.
Some side ideas include:
- Rice pilaf or risotto
- Buttered noodles
- Mashed or roasted potatoes
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans
- Dinner rolls or biscuits
Sides that include celery or onions offer a natural pairing and help emphasize the celery taste of the soup.
Desserts
End your meal on a sweet note with a delicious dessert paired with the cream of celery soup.
Some options include:
- Cream pie like coconut cream or chocolate silk pie
- Cheesecake
- Crème brûlée
- Panna cotta
- Apple crisp
The creaminess of these desserts mirrors the velvety texture of the soup. Citrus flavors like lemon or orange also complement the celery flavor.
Drinks
Complete your cream of celery soup meal with a nourishing beverage.
Some drink ideas include:
- Iced tea
- Lemonade
- Celery juice or celery soda
- Herbal tea like chamomile or mint
- White wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay
The brightness of citrus drinks helps cut through the richness of the soup. Celery juice will intensify the namesake flavor.
Tips for Serving Cream of Celery Soup
Here are some additional tips for serving cream of celery soup:
- Adjust seasonings before serving, adding salt, pepper, or nutmeg to taste.
- Garnish bowls of soup with extras like croutons, shredded cheese, chopped celery leaves, or bacon bits.
- For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend just before serving.
- For a thinner consistency, stir in extra milk, cream, or chicken broth before serving.
- Keep soup hot by serving it in a slow cooker or soup tureen.
- Offer guests a choice of accompaniments like different breads, salads, or sides.
Full Meal Examples
Here are some full meal examples showcasing delicious ways to serve cream of celery soup:
Lunch Combo
- Cream of celery soup
- Turkey club sandwich
- Kettle potato chips
- Iced tea
Dinner Feast
- Cream of celery soup
- Garlic herb roast chicken
- Rice pilaf
- Green beans
- Dinner rolls
- Lemon meringue pie
- Chardonnay
Bread Bowl Dinner
- Cream of celery soup served in a bread bowl
- Caesar salad
- Cheesecake with berry compote
- Iced tea
Get creative with combining different soups, sandwiches, salads, entrees, sides and desserts for a delicious meal built around creamy, comforting cream of celery soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cream of celery soup?
Cream of celery soup is a creamy soup made with a celery purée and chicken or vegetable stock. It often contains onions, carrots, and herbs like parsley or dill. Some recipes also include potato for added thickness.
Is cream of celery soup served hot or cold?
Cream of celery soup is usually served hot. However, it can be chilled for serving cold as well, especially in warmer months.
What herbs go well with cream of celery soup?
Herbs that pair nicely with celery flavor include parsley, thyme, sage, rosemary, dill, chives, tarragon, and bay leaf.
Can you make cream of celery soup vegan?
Yes, cream of celery soup can easily be made vegan by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replacing the dairy with cashew cream, coconut milk, or another vegan cream substitute.
What proteins go with cream of celery soup?
Chicken, turkey, beef, pork, fish, shrimp and vegetarian proteins like beans, lentils and tofu all pair well with cream of celery soup.
Conclusion
Cream of celery soup shines when served with bread, salad, sandwiches, hearty entrees and comforting desserts. Combining the richness of cream of celery soup with bright, fresh flavors and contrasting textures results in a thoroughly satisfying meal. Whether enjoying it as a starter or as the main event, this soup provides the perfect creamy, soothing base for letting other ingredients shine.