Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Indulge in the velvety goodness of this creamy squash soup, perfect for cozy evenings.
This creamy squash soup is a delightful blend of sweet squash and savory spices, making it a perfect dish for any season.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms the soul
- Naturally sweet flavor from fresh squash
- Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
- Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not just delicious; it's packed with essential nutrients that can boost your health. This vibrant orange vegetable is rich in vitamins A and C, both of which are crucial for maintaining healthy skin and a robust immune system. The antioxidants found in butternut squash also help combat oxidative stress in the body, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious meal.
In addition to its health benefits, butternut squash is a great source of dietary fiber. Fiber aids in digestion and can help keep you feeling full longer, making it a smart option for those looking to manage their weight. Incorporating this squash into your meals can enhance your overall diet while providing a naturally sweet flavor that appeals to all ages.
Perfect Pairings for Your Soup
This creamy squash soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, consider serving it with crusty bread or a fresh salad. The contrasting textures of crunchy greens or a toasted baguette complement the smoothness of the soup beautifully, enhancing your dining experience.
For a touch of indulgence, top your soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds. These additions not only elevate the dish visually but also add extra flavor and texture. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, can also brighten the dish and provide a burst of freshness.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Feel free to add a sprinkle of nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, stirring to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches and blend until creamy.
Add Coconut Milk and Seasoning
Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the coconut milk and ground cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of coconut milk for presentation.
Nutritional Information
One serving of this creamy squash soup is not only satisfying but also nutritionally beneficial. With its base of butternut squash and coconut milk, you're getting a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. The fiber content helps with digestion and can support cardiovascular health, making this soup a heart-friendly option.
Additionally, the use of vegetable broth adds depth of flavor without extra calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence. This soup is also naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan, ensuring that it fits into a variety of dietary preferences.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to customize this creamy squash soup to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For an added kick, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. If you enjoy a bit more texture, you can add cooked quinoa or lentils for protein and a heartier feel.
Herbs and spices can also be used to enhance the flavor. Fresh thyme or sage can be infused during the cooking process, bringing an aromatic quality to the soup. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes! You can substitute with pumpkin or acorn squash for a different flavor.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it uses coconut milk and vegetable broth.
→ Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This creamy squash soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
Indulge in the velvety goodness of this creamy squash soup, perfect for cozy evenings.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Soup Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, stirring to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches and blend until creamy.
Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the coconut milk and ground cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 590mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g