Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Enjoy a warm bowl of nutritious and delicious healthy squash soup, perfect for any season.
This healthy squash soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. The vibrant color and rich flavor make it a favorite among families.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that’s still light and healthy
- Rich in vitamins and minerals from fresh squash
- Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner
Nutritional Benefits
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which are crucial for maintaining good vision and a healthy immune system. Additionally, this vibrant squash is rich in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping to keep you full longer. By incorporating butternut squash into your diet, you're making a simple yet impactful choice for your overall well-being.
The addition of coconut milk in this healthy squash soup not only enhances its creamy texture but also provides healthy fats that can help with nutrient absorption. This makes the soup not only satisfying but also beneficial for your heart health. Furthermore, the spices, such as cumin, add anti-inflammatory properties, making this soup a nutritious option for any meal.
Versatile Meal Prep Option
This healthy squash soup is an ideal choice for meal prep enthusiasts. It can be made in large batches and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage. This means you can easily have a nutritious meal on hand for busy weeknights. Simply reheat a bowl when you need a quick, satisfying meal that won’t compromise your health goals.
Additionally, this soup is highly adaptable. Feel free to add in other vegetables or proteins based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Ingredients like carrots, sweet potatoes, or even cooked lentils can be great additions, making the soup even more nourishing and delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Gather all the ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add Squash and Broth
Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, ground cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in the coconut milk.
Serve and Garnish
Serve the soup warm, garnished with fresh herbs. Enjoy!
Feel free to customize your soup with your favorite spices or toppings!
Storage Tips
To store your healthy squash soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to one week, making it a convenient option for meal planning. If you prefer to freeze it, use freezer-safe containers or bags, and be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. This way, you'll always have a quick meal ready to go!
When reheating, stir the soup well and add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much during storage. This will help restore its creamy texture and ensure it’s just as delicious as the first time you enjoyed it.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to customize your healthy squash soup by experimenting with various spices and herbs. For a kick of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped fresh chili. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder flavor, fresh thyme or rosemary can complement the squash beautifully, providing a fragrant finish.
You can also play with the consistency of the soup. If you prefer a chunkier texture, reserve some of the cooked squash before blending and stir it back in after blending. This adds interesting texture while still keeping the overall dish creamy and comforting.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash can be used. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this healthy squash soup is entirely vegan when made without coconut milk.
→ How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during cooking for a kick.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Healthy Squash Soup
Enjoy a warm bowl of nutritious and delicious healthy squash soup, 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
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, ground cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in the coconut milk.
Serve the soup warm, garnished with fresh herbs. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 3g