When it comes to adding flavor and crunch to your meals, few ingredients are as versatile and nutritious as celery and carrots. These two humble vegetables can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from hearty stews and soups to fresh salads and snacks. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes that showcase the best of what celery and carrots have to offer.
From classic stir-fries and comforting casseroles to refreshing smoothies and savory stuffings, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy snack to fuel your day, we’ve got you covered with our selection of flavorful and easy-to-make celery and carrot recipes.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking!
Classic Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines juicy chicken, colorful vegetables, and savory sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, then sauté onion, garlic, bell pepper, broccoli, and snow peas for 3-4 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hearty Beef and Vegetable Stew
This comforting stew is perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend dinner. With tender beef, a variety of colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices, it’s sure to warm your belly and your heart.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Fresh Celery and Carrot Slaw
A refreshing and crunchy slaw that’s perfect for topping sandwiches, salads, or serving as a side dish. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the fresh flavor of celery.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
– 4 stalks celery, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated carrots and sliced celery.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the carrot-celery mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Creamy Celery and Carrot Soup
Brighten up a chilly day with this comforting and creamy soup, packed with the natural sweetness of carrots and celery.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 4 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
2. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are very tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Carrot and Celery Medley
Roasted Carrot and Celery Medley Recipe
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of carrots and the crunchiness of celery, perfectly roasted to a tender delight.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 stalks of celery, chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your choice of herbs and spices (e.g., thyme, rosemary, garlic powder)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots and celery with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the medley in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with your choice of herbs and spices (if using).
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable-Packed Minestrone Soup
Warm up with a hearty and flavorful soup that’s packed with vegetables! This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner that’s also nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, green beans, and cherry tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add carrots, celery, and mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in broth, diced tomatoes, and pasta shapes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pasta is cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Savory Celery and Carrot Stuffing
Transform your roasted vegetables into a savory stuffing perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
– 4 stalks celery, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the breadcrumbs and cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Lentil and Vegetable Curry
This flavorful and nutritious curry is a perfect blend of comforting warmth and healthy goodness. Made with red lentils, a variety of vegetables, and aromatic spices, this recipe is a great way to add some excitement to your meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the bell pepper, carrot, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the lentils, water or broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Crunchy Celery and Carrot Salad
Get ready to crunch into a fresh and flavorful salad that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
– 4 stalks celery, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated carrots and sliced celery.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the carrot-celery mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with this classic comfort food! This homemade chicken noodle soup recipe is easy to make and perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather or just need a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in a little bit of oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the soup pot and stir to combine.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Carrot and Celery Juice
A refreshing and invigorating juice perfect for a hot summer day or a pick-me-up any time of the year. This spicy twist on a classic carrot and celery combo will leave you feeling revitalized and ready to take on the day.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled
– 2 stalks of celery
– 1/4 cup of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
– 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
– 1-2 teaspoons of honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Cut the carrots and celery into large chunks.
2. Add all the ingredients to a juicer or blender.
3. Juice or blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth if desired.
5. Serve immediately over ice if desired, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This is a raw recipe.
Baked Celery and Carrot Casserole
This casserole is a unique twist on traditional vegetable dishes, combining the natural sweetness of carrots with the crunch of celery. The result is a delightful side dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 4 stalks celery, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots and celery with olive oil, onion, and garlic.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Refreshing Celery and Carrot Smoothie
Beat the heat with this refreshing smoothie that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the crisp freshness of celery.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large stalk of celery, leaves and strings removed, chopped
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the chopped carrots, celery, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker consistency.
4. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired thickness.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Vegetable-Loaded Pot Roast
This comforting pot roast recipe is packed with a colorful medley of vegetables, slow-cooked to perfection in a rich and flavorful broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef pot roast
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pot roast with salt and pepper.
3. In a large Dutch oven, sear the pot roast on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, mushrooms, and red bell pepper to the pot.
5. Pour in diced tomatoes and add thyme.
6. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the pot roast is tender.
8. Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Garlic Butter Sautéed Carrots and Celery
A flavorful and easy side dish that complements many meals. This recipe brings together the sweetness of carrots, the crunch of celery, and the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks of celery, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced carrots and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Celery and Carrot Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful and healthy dish by filling them with a colorful mix of sautéed celery and carrots. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, sauté celery, carrots, onion, and garlic until tender.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the vegetable mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Place stuffed bell peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Asian-Inspired Vegetable Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Asia with a colorful medley of vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch. With just a few simple ingredients and 15 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a tasty and healthy meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and carrot; cook until tender, 5 minutes.
3. Add broccoli and cook until slightly softened, 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey.
5. Pour the soy-honey mixture over the vegetables and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Slow Cooker Vegetable Beef Soup
Perfect for a chilly day or a busy weeknight, this slow cooker soup is packed with tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a rich broth. Let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add beef, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Pour mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Summary
Get creative with your meals by incorporating celery and carrots into your favorite recipes! This collection of 18 flavorful dishes showcases the versatility of these humble vegetables. From classic stir-fries to hearty stews, soups, salads, and more, you’ll find a variety of ideas for every meal. Try adding celery and carrots to your chicken noodle soup or beef stew for added depth of flavor. Or, go green with a refreshing smoothie or slaw. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a healthy snack, this roundup has something for everyone.
