Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy squash soup recipe is a comforting and delicious choice for a chilly day. It's easy to make and full of flavor!
Discover the warmth and comfort of this creamy squash soup, perfect for gatherings or a quiet night in. Blending savory squash with aromatic spices creates a delightful dish that everyone will love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and velvety texture that comforts the soul
- Delicate balance of sweet and savory flavors
- Quick and simple to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This vibrant vegetable is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting good vision. Additionally, butternut squash is rich in antioxidants, helping to combat oxidative stress in the body.
Incorporating butternut squash into your diet can boost your overall health. It is high in fiber, which aids in digestion and can help you feel fuller for longer. This makes it a fantastic choice for those looking to manage their weight while enjoying a hearty and satisfying meal.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This creamy squash soup is an ideal recipe for meal prepping. You can easily make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for longer shelf life. This means you can enjoy a comforting bowl of soup anytime you need a quick meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch.
When reheating, simply warm the soup on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You can also customize each serving by adding fresh herbs or spices to keep things interesting throughout the week.
Variations to Try
While this recipe is delightful as is, there are numerous ways to put your spin on it! Consider adding other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added sweetness and nutrition. You can also incorporate spices such as nutmeg or ginger for a warm, aromatic flavor profile.
For a protein boost, try adding cooked lentils or chickpeas. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also makes the soup heartier and even more satisfying. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative in the kitchen!
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your creamy squash soup.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pumpkin seeds for garnish
Make sure to have everything ready to go for a smooth cooking process!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make the creamy squash soup.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir for a couple of minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Once the squash is cooked, use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
Add Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper. Heat through for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with pumpkin seeds if desired.
Enjoy your delicious creamy squash soup!
Tips for the Best Soup
To ensure your creamy squash soup has the best flavor, always use fresh ingredients. Fresh butternut squash will give your soup a richer taste compared to pre-packaged versions. Additionally, don't skip sautéing the onions and garlic; this step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
If you prefer a smoother texture, consider straining the soup after blending. This can help remove any fibrous bits from the squash, resulting in an ultra-creamy soup that melts in your mouth.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. A side of garlic bread can also elevate your dining experience, making it a comforting choice for chilly nights.
For a touch of elegance, serve the soup in bowls drizzled with a bit of olive oil or a dollop of sour cream. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add a burst of color and flavor to your dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash can be used. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it uses vegetable broth and coconut milk.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
This creamy squash soup recipe is a comforting and delicious choice for a chilly day. It's easy to make and full of flavor!
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pumpkin seeds for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir for a couple of minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Once the squash is cooked, use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper. Heat through for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with pumpkin seeds if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g