Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A warm and comforting bowl of healthy squash soup, perfect for chilly days.
This healthy squash soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for a cozy dinner and incredibly easy to make!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture without the heavy cream
- Naturally sweet and flavorful from the squash
- Rich in vitamins and perfect for a healthy diet
A Nourishing Choice
This Healthy Squash Soup is more than just a delicious meal; it's a powerhouse of nutrition. Butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, both essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. Incorporating this soup into your diet can help you meet your daily vegetable intake while providing a comforting and satisfying option that warms you from the inside out.
The simplicity of the ingredients means you can whip this soup up any day of the week. With just a handful of wholesome components, you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet is entirely guilt-free. Plus, it's a fantastic way to utilize seasonal produce, making it a great choice year-round.
Versatile and Adaptable
One of the best aspects of this Healthy Squash Soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite herbs and spices. Consider experimenting with a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or include some fresh ginger for an extra layer of flavor. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make it uniquely yours.
Additionally, this soup pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad, crusty whole-grain bread, or a light sandwich for a complete meal. It also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights when you need something quick yet nutritious.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner party or simply looking for a nourishing lunch, this Healthy Squash Soup fits the bill. Its inviting aroma and vibrant color make it an appealing starter or main dish that can impress your guests without requiring extensive culinary skills.
Moreover, this soup is suitable for various dietary restrictions, being vegan and gluten-free. It's an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy meal without compromising on taste or satisfaction. Serve it in individual bowls for an elegant touch, and watch as it becomes a favorite among your family and friends.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, ground cumin, and nutmeg to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Cook for about 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your healthy squash soup with a slice of whole-grain bread!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your Healthy Squash Soup is a breeze. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. Just ensure you label the containers with the date for easy tracking.
When you're ready to enjoy the soup again, reheating is simple. If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight for the best results. Warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. An immersion blender can also be used to re-emulsify the soup if it has thickened during storage.
Nutritional Benefits
This Healthy Squash Soup is not just delicious; it’s also packed with health benefits. Butternut squash is an excellent source of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. The fiber content aids digestion, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.
Additionally, the inclusion of garlic and onion not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to heart health. Garlic has been shown to lower cholesterol levels, while onions are rich in flavonoids that can improve cardiovascular health. Together, these ingredients make this soup not just a treat for your taste buds but also a boon for your overall wellbeing.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash can be used; just make sure it's thawed before cooking.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during cooking for some heat.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, the soup is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth.
Healthy Squash Soup
A warm and comforting bowl of healthy squash soup, perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Soup Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, ground cumin, and nutmeg to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Cook for about 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 3g