Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy squash soup is the perfect comfort food, blending the sweetness of squash with rich, velvety cream for a satisfying dish.
This creamy squash soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's a great way to enjoy seasonal produce!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that's incredibly satisfying
- A delightful blend of flavors with a hint of sweetness
- Perfect for warming up on a chilly day
A Wholesome Choice
This creamy squash soup is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, making it a great choice for boosting your immune system. The addition of garlic and onions not only enhances the flavor but also provides additional health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. Eating this soup not only warms you up but also nourishes your body, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.
Moreover, this recipe is versatile. You can easily adapt it by adding other vegetables or spices that you enjoy. For instance, a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper can add warmth and depth to the flavor. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to create a personalized version that suits your palate.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this creamy squash soup is appropriate for any occasion. Its elegant presentation and rich flavor make it a great starter for an upscale meal, while its comforting qualities are perfect for a family get-together. Pair it with some crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Additionally, this soup can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Simply prepare the soup, cool it completely, and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. When you're ready to serve, just reheat it on the stove for a quick and easy meal that tastes like it was just made.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, you're in luck! This creamy squash soup stores wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to leave a bit of space in the container, as the soup may expand when frozen.
When it's time to enjoy your leftover soup, reheating is simple. For best results, reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If you find the soup too thick after refrigeration, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. This way, you’ll always have a delicious, creamy treat ready to enjoy!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 2 lbs butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your creamy squash soup:
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir well. 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
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Add Cream and Season
Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 5 minutes.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
Your creamy squash soup is ready to be enjoyed!
Nutritional Benefits
This creamy squash soup is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a source of essential nutrients. Butternut squash is known for its high vitamin A content, which is vital for maintaining good vision and skin health. Additionally, it’s a rich source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps to keep you feeling full longer.
The garlic and onions in the soup add additional health benefits. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, while onions provide antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the body. Together, these ingredients create a comforting dish that is not only delicious but also good for you.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate the experience of this creamy squash soup, consider pairing it with a side of homemade croutons or a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch. A dollop of sour cream or a swirl of pesto on top can also enhance the presentation and flavor, making it even more appealing to your guests.
For a more substantial meal, serve this soup alongside a light salad with mixed greens, goat cheese, and a vinaigrette. This contrast of flavors and textures will create a delightful dining experience, making every spoonful of soup even more enjoyable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can substitute with acorn squash or pumpkin for different flavors.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and ensure the vegetable broth is vegan.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers for freezing.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
This creamy squash soup is the perfect comfort food, blending the sweetness of squash with rich, velvety cream for a satisfying dish.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 lbs butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir well. 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.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 5 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g