Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A deliciously creamy and nutritious soup made from wholesome squash, perfect for a cozy meal.
This healthy squash soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. It's a great way to enjoy seasonal squash while keeping your meal light and wholesome.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture without any cream added
- Rich in vitamins and minerals from fresh squash
- Perfect for meal prepping or quick weeknight dinners
The Nutritional Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It's an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which play crucial roles in maintaining healthy vision and a robust immune system. The vibrant orange color of the squash indicates its high beta-carotene content, a powerful antioxidant that helps combat oxidative stress in the body.
Additionally, butternut squash is rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, making it a great addition to a healthy diet. This makes our Healthy Squash Soup an ideal choice for anyone looking to add more veggies to their meals without sacrificing flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Healthy Squash Soup is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of occasions. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner party, looking for a comforting lunch, or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this soup fits the bill perfectly. Its creamy texture and rich flavor profile will impress your guests, yet it’s easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.
Serve it as a starter to a festive meal or enjoy it on its own with a slice of crusty bread. You can also elevate the experience by adding toppings like roasted pumpkin seeds or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to personalize each bowl.
Tips for Meal Prepping
One of the best things about this Healthy Squash Soup is its meal-prepping potential. You can make a big batch at the beginning of the week and store it in individual containers for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you're ready to enjoy.
To enhance the flavor, consider making the soup a day in advance. Allowing it to sit overnight lets the flavors meld beautifully, creating an even richer taste. This soup can also be frozen for up to three months, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for extra flavor!
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir well. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the 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, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Season and Serve
Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for later use.
Storage Instructions
To store your Healthy Squash Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you’re planning to freeze it, make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion as the soup freezes.
When reheating from the fridge or freezer, stir the soup well and add a splash of vegetable broth or water to bring back its creamy consistency. This will ensure that your soup remains delicious and enjoyable even after storage.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a side salad topped with nuts and cheese. Crusty bread or warm rolls are also excellent for dipping, enhancing the overall experience.
For those looking to add a protein boost, grilled chicken or chickpeas can make a delicious addition. Simply serve them on the side or mix them into the soup for a more filling dish that satisfies your hunger.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with acorn squash or pumpkin.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this healthy squash soup is entirely vegan as it uses vegetable broth.
→ How can I make it creamier?
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream after blending.
→ Can I add protein to this soup?
Absolutely! Adding lentils or chickpeas can boost the protein content.
Healthy Squash Soup
A deliciously creamy and nutritious soup made from wholesome squash, perfect for a cozy meal.
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 cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir well. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the 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, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g