Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy squash soup recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as an elegant starter for your dinner party.
This creamy squash soup is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a warm and comforting dish that highlights the natural sweetness of squash. Perfect for chilly days!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, velvety texture that warms the soul
- Naturally sweet and savory flavors
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
The Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and immune function. Additionally, this versatile vegetable contains dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.
Incorporating butternut squash into your diet can also support heart health. The antioxidants found in squash help to reduce inflammation, while the potassium content aids in regulating blood pressure. This makes creamy squash soup not only a comforting dish but also a heart-healthy option for your meals.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This creamy squash soup is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a formal dinner party or enjoying a casual family gathering, this soup can serve as an elegant starter or a centerpiece dish. Its rich flavor profile complements a variety of main courses, enhancing your overall dining experience.
Moreover, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. Reheating it is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of soup whenever you desire. It's a great way to ensure you have nutritious meals on hand, especially during busy weeks.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir for a few 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
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until creamy.
Add Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 5 minutes before serving.
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your creamy squash soup experience, consider garnishing it with a swirl of coconut cream or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a delightful crunch and richness in flavor that complements the soup's creamy texture.
Pair the soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the rich soup, making for a balanced and satisfying dinner option.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup thickens too much during storage, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in individual portions. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and you'll have a quick, nutritious meal ready to enjoy at a moment's notice.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash for this recipe?
Yes, frozen squash works well and will save you prep time.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some fresh chili for a kick.
→ Can I substitute the coconut milk?
Yes, you can use heavy cream or a dairy-free cream alternative.
→ How long does this soup keep in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
This creamy squash soup recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as an elegant starter for your dinner party.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir for a few 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.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until creamy.
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 5 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g