Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A nourishing and delicious soup that's perfect for any season.
This Healthy Squash Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a comforting meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture without the heavy cream
- Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh squash
- Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
- Great for warming up on chilly nights
A Comforting Bowl of Goodness
There's something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s made from wholesome ingredients like butternut squash. This Healthy Squash Soup not only warms you up but also nourishes your body with essential vitamins and minerals. The natural sweetness of the squash blends beautifully with the aromatic garlic and onion, creating a delightful flavor profile that you'll crave time and again.
This soup is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. Whether you're looking to enjoy it on a crisp fall evening or as a light summer meal, its rich, creamy texture without the added calories of heavy cream makes it an ideal choice. It's a fantastic option for quick weeknight dinners or cozy weekends spent at home.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're someone who loves to meal prep, this Healthy Squash Soup is a star player in your weekly lineup. It can be made in large batches and stored in the fridge for up to a week, or frozen for later use. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick, nutritious meal that fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle.
Preparing this soup in advance means you can enjoy a homemade meal without the fuss on hectic days. It also allows the flavors to deepen and enhance, making it even more delicious when enjoyed the next day. Pair it with a slice of whole-grain bread or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience.
Garnishing and Pairing Ideas
While this Healthy Squash Soup is delicious on its own, adding a few garnishes can elevate your dining experience. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds a rich flavor, while a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds or croutons can provide a satisfying crunch. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also brighten the dish and add a pop of color.
For a complete meal, consider pairing your soup with a side of crusty bread or a light salad. A crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the soup's sweetness perfectly, making for a balanced and enjoyable meal that you'll want to share with family and friends.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.
Instructions
Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the squash and broth
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth and ground ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the soup
Once the squash is tender, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender.
Season and serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a swirl of olive oil if desired.
Enjoy your healthy and delicious squash soup!
Nutritional Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It's rich in vitamins A and C, which are vital for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and immune function. Additionally, it's a good source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel full longer. Incorporating butternut squash into your diet can contribute to overall health and wellness.
This nutrient-dense vegetable is low in calories and high in antioxidants, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. Its natural sweetness can satisfy your cravings for comfort food without the guilt, allowing you to indulge while still making healthy choices.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best aspects of this Healthy Squash Soup is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon, or even curry powder to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added nutrition and depth of flavor.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also mix in some cooked lentils or beans for an extra protein boost, transforming your soup into a more filling meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can use acorn squash or pumpkin as alternatives.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no dairy.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, the soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
→ How long does this soup last in the refrigerator?
It can last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.
Healthy Squash Soup
A nourishing and delicious soup that's perfect for any season.
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 diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth and ground ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Once the squash is tender, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender.
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a swirl of olive oil if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g