Squash Soup Blender Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy squash soup is both comforting and nutritious, perfect for chilly days.
This squash soup blender recipe combines the natural sweetness of squash with a hint of spice, creating a delightful bowl of comfort.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, velvety texture that warms the soul
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners
- Full of vitamins and healthy ingredients
The Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Its vibrant orange color indicates a high beta-carotene content, which is beneficial for eye health and immune function. Incorporating squash into your diet can help reduce inflammation and support overall health, making this soup not only delicious but also a smart choice for your well-being.
Moreover, this vegetable is low in calories, which means you can enjoy a hearty bowl of squash soup without the guilt. The natural sweetness of butternut squash pairs beautifully with spices, creating a comforting dish that satisfies your taste buds while nourishing your body.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This creamy squash soup is an ideal candidate for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days, or freeze portions for a quick lunch or dinner later. Just reheat and serve, and you’ll have a nutritious meal ready in minutes.
To enhance your meal prep experience, consider adding a variety of toppings such as roasted seeds, croutons, or a dollop of yogurt. These additions not only elevate the flavor but also provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth soup.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this squash soup, consider pairing it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze on top for an unexpected tang.
For a more filling option, you can serve the soup alongside a protein-rich dish like grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas. This not only enhances the meal's nutritional profile but also makes it more satisfying, perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for your squash soup:
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Make sure to measure out all your ingredients before starting.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your squash soup:
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Remove the pot from the heat and use a blender (or immersion blender) to puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches.
Finish with Coconut Milk
Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the coconut milk, if using. Heat gently before serving.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Storage Tips
To keep your squash soup fresh, store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will last for about 4 to 5 days, making it a great option for meal prepping. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring there's enough room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup seems too thick after freezing, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding different spices or herbs. For a hint of warmth, try incorporating ginger or nutmeg. If you prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can elevate the soup’s flavor profile. Additionally, you can swap out butternut squash for other varieties like acorn or pumpkin for a unique twist.
Another great variation involves adding other vegetables such as carrots or sweet potatoes, which blend seamlessly into the soup and add additional nutrients. Just ensure that all vegetables are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash can be used. Just ensure it's thawed and drained before cooking.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, the soup is vegan-friendly. Just make sure the vegetable broth is also vegan.
→ What should I serve with the soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Squash Soup Blender Recipe
This creamy squash soup is both comforting and nutritious, perfect for chilly days.
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 diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the diced butternut squash, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Remove the pot from the heat and use a blender (or immersion blender) to puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches.
Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the coconut milk, if using. Heat gently before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 5g