Creamy Parsnip and Herb Soup (Printable Version)

Velvety smooth soup featuring sweet roasted parsnips and vibrant fresh herbs.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1.76 lb parsnips, peeled and cut into 3/4 inch chunks
02 - 1 medium onion, diced
03 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
04 - 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
05 - 1 celery stalk, sliced

→ Pantry

06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
07 - 4 1/4 cups vegetable stock, gluten-free if needed
08 - 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
09 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Dairy

10 - 3.4 fluid ounces double cream or crème fraîche, or plant-based alternative

→ Fresh Herbs

11 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
12 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
13 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, optional
14 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon, optional

# How To Make It:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F.
02 - Toss parsnip chunks with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt on a baking tray. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, turning once, until golden and tender.
03 - Heat the remaining olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, celery, and potato. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until softened but not colored.
04 - Add roasted parsnips to the pan. Pour in the vegetable stock, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, until all vegetables are very soft.
05 - Remove from heat. Blend the soup using an immersion blender or in batches with a countertop blender until silky smooth.
06 - Stir in the cream or crème fraîche, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
07 - Reheat gently if needed. Ladle into bowls and finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh herbs.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The roasting process creates a deep, caramelized flavor that you can't get from boiling alone.
  • It features a luxurious, silky texture that feels indulgent while remaining light.
  • The recipe is naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan with a simple dairy swap.
  • Fresh herbs add a vibrant finish that brightens every spoonful.
02 -
  • Don't rush the roasting; the golden edges on the parsnips are where the best flavor lives.
  • If using a countertop blender, be careful when blending hot liquids—always leave a gap for steam to escape.
  • Always check the labels on your vegetable stock to ensure it meets your dietary requirements, especially for gluten-free diets.
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