How to Dress Up Canned Cream of Celery Soup

Canned cream of celery soup can be a convenient base for a variety of delicious dishes. Here are some ideas on how to dress it up and create a tasty meal:

1. Add Fresh Ingredients:
   • Saute diced onions, celery, and garlic in a little butter or oil until they’re soft and fragrant. Then, add the canned cream of celery soup and stir to combine. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.
2. Protein Boost:
   • Add cooked chicken, turkey, or ham for a hearty and filling soup. You can also add some cooked and crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
3. Veggies and Herbs:
   • Fresh or frozen vegetables like carrots, peas, corn, or green beans can be a great addition. Add a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or dill to brighten up the flavors.
4. Spices and Seasonings:
   • Season the soup with herbs and spices like thyme, parsley, black pepper, or a pinch of nutmeg to elevate the taste. Adjust the salt to your preference.
5. Creamy Texture:
   • If you want an even creamier texture, stir in a bit of heavy cream, half-and-half, or milk. This will make the soup smoother and richer.
6. Toppings:
   • Top your soup with grated cheese, croutons, or a dollop of sour cream for added texture and flavor.
7. Dips and Casseroles:
   • Use the cream of celery soup as a base for making creamy vegetable dips or casseroles. Mix it with cooked vegetables, shredded cheese, and a protein of your choice, then bake it in the oven until it’s hot and bubbly.
8. Serve with Bread:
   • Serve your dressed-up cream of celery soup with a side of crusty bread, crackers, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a satisfying meal.

Here’s a simple recipe as an example:

Cream of Celery and Ham Soup:

Ingredients:

• 1 can of cream of celery soup
• 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation Directions:

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and minced garlic. Cook until they become tender.
2. Stir in the diced ham and cook for a few minutes until it’s heated through.
3. Add the canned cream of celery soup, frozen peas, dried thyme, and heavy cream (if using). Stir well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Feel free to customize the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste. Canned cream of celery soup can be a versatile and tasty base for many different recipes.