Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Healthy Squash Soup is a comforting blend of flavors that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for chilly days!
This soup not only tastes great but is packed with nutrients. The sweet flavor of squash combined with spices makes it a delightful meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Loaded with vitamins and minerals from fresh squash
- Creamy texture without the heavy cream
- Perfectly spiced for a cozy and hearty meal
- Quick and easy to make for busy weeknights
The Nutritional Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. These nutrients support immune function, promote healthy skin, and aid in digestion. The vibrant orange color of the squash signifies the presence of beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body, essential for eye health and vision.
Incorporating squash into your diet can help maintain a healthy weight due to its high fiber content, which keeps you feeling full longer. This Healthy Squash Soup is an excellent way to enjoy this versatile vegetable, ensuring you get a hearty serving of nutrients in every bowl.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Healthy Squash Soup is not only quick to make but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily double or triple the recipe, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish throughout the week. Store individual portions in airtight containers in the fridge for up to five days, or freeze for longer storage.
When you're ready to eat, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. The flavors of the soup develop even more after a day or two, making it a delicious option for busy nights when you need a wholesome meal in a hurry.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best aspects of this Healthy Squash Soup is its versatility. Feel free to customize the spices to suit your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can bring a delightful heat, while a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can offer a warm, comforting sweetness.
You can also enhance the nutritional value by adding other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes. For a protein boost, consider including cooked lentils or chickpeas. The soup's creamy texture can be achieved without heavy cream, making it a lighter option that doesn't compromise on flavor.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Make sure to choose a ripe squash for the best flavor.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, cumin, ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If desired, add more broth for a thinner consistency.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or fresh herbs.
This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Storage Tips
To store your Healthy Squash Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or quick lunches.
If you plan to freeze the soup, consider portioning it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label them with the date for easy identification. This soup can last in the freezer for up to three months, ensuring you always have a comforting meal ready at hand.
Serving Suggestions
This Healthy Squash Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a warm, crusty bread for dipping or a light salad for a refreshing contrast. A sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds on top adds a delightful crunch and additional nutrition.
For a gourmet touch, drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction over the soup just before serving. This adds a sweet-tangy flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the squash beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash for this recipe?
Yes, frozen squash can be used, just ensure to thaw it before cooking.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth.
→ How can I make this soup creamier?
You can add a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of yogurt before serving.
→ Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Carrots, sweet potatoes, or even spinach can be great additions.
Healthy Squash Soup
This Healthy Squash Soup is a comforting blend of flavors that warms you from the inside out. 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
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened.
Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, cumin, ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If desired, add more broth for a thinner consistency.
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or fresh herbs.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 3g