Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A comforting and nutritious squash soup that warms you up from the inside out.
This healthy squash soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The blend of squash and spices creates a comforting bowl that is perfect for chilly evenings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and smooth texture that's rich in flavor
- Nutritious ingredients that boost your immune system
- Easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners
The Health Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It is rich in vitamins A and C, which play crucial roles in maintaining healthy vision and a robust immune system. The high fiber content aids digestion, making it a great addition to any meal. Incorporating squash into your diet can contribute to overall health and well-being.
Additionally, the antioxidants found in butternut squash can help combat oxidative stress in the body. This may lower the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers. By choosing to make this nutritious soup, you're not only treating your taste buds but also giving your body a healthy boost.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This healthy squash soup is versatile enough to be served on various occasions. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Its comforting nature makes it an excellent choice for cold weather, but it can be enjoyed year-round.
Moreover, you can easily customize this soup to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding a splash of coconut milk for creaminess or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat. This adaptability makes it a wonderful dish to experiment with, ensuring that it never gets boring.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, storing your squash soup is simple. Allow it 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 longer shelf life. Just make sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.
When you're ready to enjoy the soup again, reheating is a breeze. Simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it seems too thick after reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Enjoying this healthy treat again has never been easier!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups of butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Make sure to use fresh squash for the best flavor!
Instructions
Sauté the onions and garlic
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 squash and spices
Add the cubed butternut squash, ground cumin, ground ginger, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Simmer the soup
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Blend the soup
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a blender in batches.
Serve and enjoy
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Why Homemade Soup is Better
Making soup from scratch not only allows you to control the ingredients but also provides an opportunity to enhance the flavors to your liking. Store-bought options often contain preservatives and additives that can detract from the health benefits. By preparing your own squash soup, you can ensure it's made with fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Homemade soup also tends to taste better than canned varieties. The process of sautéing the onions and garlic develops a rich base flavor, which is often lacking in pre-packaged soups. When you take the time to create this dish, you're rewarded with a comforting bowl of goodness that’s bursting with flavor.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your squash soup experience, consider pairing it with a side of crusty whole-grain bread or a fresh salad. The combination of textures and flavors will enhance your meal and make it even more satisfying. You could also serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added creaminess and a tangy contrast.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, topping the soup with roasted pumpkin seeds or croutons can add a delightful texture. These simple additions not only improve the visual appeal of the dish but also provide a satisfying contrast to the silky soup.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types 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.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
Healthy Squash Soup
A comforting and nutritious squash soup that warms you up from the inside out.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups of butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
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, ground cumin, ground ginger, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a blender in batches.
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g