Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy squash soup recipe is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. Loaded with flavor and nutrients, it’s a delightful way to enjoy seasonal squash.
This creamy squash soup recipe is a cozy classic that brings warmth and flavor to your dining table. Perfect for a starter or a light meal, it’s packed with vitamins and a deliciously smooth texture.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms the soul
- Naturally sweet flavor from fresh squash
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
The Benefits of Seasonal Eating
Eating seasonally has numerous benefits for both your health and the environment. Seasonal squash, like butternut, is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for your meals. By consuming seasonal produce, you can also enjoy the freshest flavors, as these ingredients are harvested at their peak ripeness.
Moreover, choosing seasonal ingredients often means supporting local farmers and reducing your carbon footprint. When you buy locally grown squash, you are contributing to the local economy and encouraging sustainable farming practices. This creamy squash soup not only delights your taste buds but also aligns with a more environmentally friendly lifestyle.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This creamy squash soup is an ideal option for meal prepping. It can be easily made in large batches, allowing you to enjoy healthy meals throughout the week without spending hours in the kitchen every day. Simply store the soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer for quick, nutritious meals at your fingertips.
Reheating the soup is a breeze; just warm it on the stove or in the microwave. You can also customize your servings by adding different toppings or sides, such as crusty bread or a fresh salad, to keep your meals exciting and varied.
Garnishing Ideas
While this creamy squash soup is delicious on its own, adding a few garnishes can elevate the presentation and flavor. Fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, add a vibrant touch and a burst of freshness. A drizzle of olive oil on top can enhance the richness of the soup, while a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds provides a delightful crunch.
For a hint of spice, consider adding a dash of chili flakes or a swirl of hot sauce. These garnishes not only make the soup visually appealing but also allow you to customize the flavor to match your personal preference.
Ingredients
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
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish
Gather all the ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.
Instructions
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir well. Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the squash is tender, approximately 20 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Once the squash is cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it in batches to a regular blender.
Add Coconut Milk
Return the blended soup to the pot, stir in the coconut milk, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 5 minutes.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Storage Tips
To ensure your creamy squash soup stays fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it in portions for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.
When reheating frozen soup, it's best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before warming it on the stove. This method helps maintain the soup's creamy texture and flavor.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different types of squash in this recipe! Acorn squash or pumpkin can be used as alternatives, each bringing their unique flavors to the soup. You might also add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm, spiced undertone that complements the sweetness of the squash.
For a heartier version, consider adding cooked lentils or beans to the soup, providing extra protein and fiber. This small tweak can transform your creamy squash soup into a filling meal that satisfies your hunger.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash works well in this recipe. Just ensure it’s thawed before cooking.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly by using vegetable broth and coconut milk.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
This creamy squash soup recipe is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. Loaded with flavor and nutrients, it’s a delightful way to enjoy seasonal squash.
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
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir well. Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the squash is tender, approximately 20 minutes.
Once the squash is cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it in batches to a regular blender.
Return the blended soup to the pot, stir in the coconut milk, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 5 minutes.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g