Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy squash soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul. Perfect for chilly days or as a starter for your dinner party.
This creamy squash soup is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins. The combination of squash and spices makes it a comforting choice for any meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that soothes the soul
- Nutritious and packed with flavor
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. This vibrant vegetable is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting good vision. Additionally, it is packed with antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Moreover, butternut squash is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Including this superfood in your diet can contribute to a balanced and healthy lifestyle, making it a fantastic choice for your creamy soup.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This creamy squash soup is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you're enjoying a cozy night in or hosting a dinner party, this soup serves as a delightful starter that impresses guests with its rich flavors. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Additionally, its creamy texture and comforting warmth make it a perfect dish for chilly fall and winter days. It’s also a wonderful choice for those looking for a healthy yet satisfying option to enjoy during the colder months.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best aspects of this creamy squash soup is its ease of preparation, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. You can batch-cook the soup and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it for longer storage. This means you can have a delicious and nutritious meal ready in minutes, perfect for busy weekdays.
To reheat, simply thaw if frozen and warm it on the stove or in the microwave. You can also customize each serving by adding toppings like croutons, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil, allowing for variety throughout the week.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 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
These fresh ingredients will create a velvety soup that is both nourishing and satisfying.
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, stirring to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend half and leave the rest as is.
Add Coconut Milk and Season
Stir in the coconut milk and ground cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Return to low heat for a few minutes to warm through.
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Storage Tips
To ensure the freshness of your creamy squash soup, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about five to seven days. If you plan to make a larger batch, consider freezing portions in individual containers. This makes for quick and easy meals whenever you need them.
When reheating, stir the soup well to ensure even heating, and consider adding a splash of coconut milk to restore its creamy consistency if it thickens too much during storage.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy squash soup can be garnished in several delightful ways. Consider adding a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also enhance the flavor profile, giving it a fresh touch.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper or a swirl of chili oil can add a spicy kick to your bowl. Pair it with a warm baguette or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information
This creamy squash soup is not only delicious but also a healthy choice. Each serving is low in calories while being high in essential nutrients. It provides an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin A, which is vital for eye health and skin integrity.
Additionally, the inclusion of coconut milk adds healthy fats, which can help keep you satiated. Overall, this soup is a wholesome option that can fit into a balanced diet, making it a perfect choice for both health-conscious individuals and those looking to indulge.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash works well. Just ensure it is thawed before adding to the pot.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already vegan, as it uses coconut milk and vegetable broth.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
This creamy squash soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul. Perfect for chilly days or as a starter for your dinner party.
Created by: Ainsley Harper
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 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 olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, stirring to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend half and leave the rest as is.
Stir in the coconut milk and ground cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Return to low heat for a few minutes to warm through.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g