Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Healthy squash soup is a comforting, nutritious dish perfect for any season.
This healthy squash soup brings warmth and nutrition to your table. It's packed with vitamins and flavor, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or a cozy dinner.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture with a hint of sweetness from the squash
- Loaded with vitamins and nutrients for a healthy meal
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
A Nutritious Choice
This healthy squash soup is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, both of which are vital for maintaining a robust immune system and healthy skin. Additionally, the soup is low in calories while being high in fiber, making it a perfect option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Each bowl is a warm embrace, nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.
Incorporating this soup into your meal rotation is a fantastic way to ensure you're getting a variety of vitamins and minerals. The addition of garlic and onion enhances the flavor while offering their own health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties. This soup is not just a meal; it’s a step toward a healthier lifestyle.
Versatile and Adaptable
One of the best features of this healthy squash soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as carrots or sweet potatoes, or even include a splash of coconut milk for an extra creamy texture. The spices can also be adjusted; try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of chili powder for a unique twist.
This soup is also an excellent base for those who enjoy experimenting with flavors. You can serve it as a starter or pair it with a salad or sandwich for a complete meal. Its adaptability makes it a favorite among families, as it can cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking for a healthy meal prep option, this squash soup is ideal. It can be made in large batches and stored in the fridge for up to a week, or frozen for longer storage. Reheating is a breeze; simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave. This means you can enjoy a nutritious meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch every day.
Having this soup on hand ensures that you have a quick, healthy option ready to go whenever you need it. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just grab a bowl, and you’re ready to enjoy!
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Gather these ingredients to make your delicious healthy squash soup!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
Add the Squash and Seasonings
Add the cubed butternut squash, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Pour in the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 25 minutes until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your healthy squash soup!
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week!
Storing and Reheating
To store your healthy squash soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to a week, or you can freeze it for up to three months. When freezing, consider portioning it out into single servings for easy access.
When you're ready to enjoy your soup, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If it appears too thick after reheating, add a little vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This healthy squash soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For an added crunch, consider topping it with roasted pumpkin seeds or croutons. You can also drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze or a swirl of yogurt for extra flavor.
If you're serving it as an appetizer, consider small, bite-sized appetizers alongside, such as stuffed mushrooms or veggie skewers. The possibilities are endless, making it easy to create a delightful dining experience around this comforting soup.
Health Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is renowned for its health benefits. It's rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body and reduce inflammation. The high fiber content also promotes digestive health and can aid in weight management by keeping you feeling full longer.
Incorporating more squash into your diet can contribute to improved heart health due to its potassium content, which helps regulate blood pressure. With such a wide range of health benefits, enjoying a bowl of healthy squash soup is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a gift to your body.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes, you can use acorn squash or pumpkin as alternatives.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth.
→ How can I make it creamier?
You can add coconut milk or cashew cream for a richer texture.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well for up to three months.
Healthy Squash Soup
Healthy squash soup is a comforting, nutritious dish perfect for any season.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Soup Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
Add the cubed butternut squash, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 25 minutes until the squash is tender.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your healthy squash soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 3g