In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and ginger. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Stir in the chopped carrots, garlic, paprika, cumin, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and infuse the mixture with flavor.
Add the vegetable broth, ensuring that the vegetables are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
Once the carrots are cooked through, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend only half of it and leave the rest as is.
Stir in the coconut milk or half and half, along with the honey or maple syrup and lemon juice. Mix well, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Heat through for an additional 5 minutes.
Ladle the Carrot Soup into bowls and garnish with minced parsley if desired. Enjoy it warm with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.