Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Healthy Squash Soup is a nourishing and delicious option for any meal. Packed with vitamins and flavor, it's perfect for cozy nights.
This Healthy Squash Soup is not only comforting but also loaded with nutrients. The blend of squash and spices creates a warm, inviting dish that is perfect for any season.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture without the cream
- Packed with vitamins and antioxidants
- Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. This vibrant orange vegetable is rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. This vitamin is essential for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and immune function. Additionally, butternut squash contains significant amounts of vitamins C and E, both of which have antioxidant properties that can help protect against cellular damage.
Moreover, butternut squash is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps maintain a healthy weight. By incorporating this nutritious ingredient into your meals, you can enjoy a satisfying dish that also supports your overall well-being.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Healthy Squash Soup is an ideal recipe for meal prep enthusiasts. Its simple preparation process allows you to make a large batch that can be stored and enjoyed throughout the week. Once prepared, the soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.
Additionally, this soup freezes beautifully, allowing you to portion it into individual servings for quick and easy meals on demand. Just reheat and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl packed with nutrition whenever you need it!
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best things about this Healthy Squash Soup is its versatility. You can customize the flavors by adding your favorite spices or herbs. For a spicy kick, consider including a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a lovely aroma and enhance the overall taste of the soup.
If you prefer a creamier texture, you can stir in a dollop of coconut milk or a splash of almond milk after blending. This not only adds creaminess but also introduces new flavors that complement the squash beautifully. Feel free to experiment and make this soup your own!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your soup:
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir for a few minutes. This will enhance its flavor.
Pour in the Broth
Add the vegetable broth, ground ginger, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it in batches to a blender.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy squash soup!
Serving Suggestions
This Healthy Squash Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a light salad can create a balanced meal. For added texture, consider topping your soup with roasted pumpkin seeds or croutons. These toppings not only enhance the presentation but also provide a delightful crunch with each spoonful.
For a heartier option, serve the soup alongside a grilled cheese sandwich. The gooey, melted cheese complements the creamy soup perfectly, making for a comforting combination that is sure to please.
Storage Tips
To store your Healthy Squash Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. If you plan to freeze it, be sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. Label the containers with the date to keep track of freshness, and enjoy your soup within three months for best quality.
When reheating, you can use the stovetop or microwave. If using the stovetop, gently warm the soup over low heat, stirring occasionally. In the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even heating without scorching.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes, you can use other squashes like acorn or pumpkin, but the flavor may vary.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is already vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no dairy.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Healthy Squash Soup
This Healthy Squash Soup is a nourishing and delicious option for any meal. Packed with vitamins and flavor, it's perfect for cozy nights.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 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 garlic, and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir for a few minutes. This will enhance its flavor.
Add the vegetable broth, ground ginger, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it in batches to a blender.
Serve the soup 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: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g