Squash Soup Creamy Healthy
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy squash soup is a healthy, comforting dish perfect for any time of year.
This creamy squash soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Made from fresh squash, it's a great way to enjoy healthy eating without sacrificing flavor.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms you up
- Nutritious ingredients that are good for you
- Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
A Bowl of Comfort
There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of squash soup on a chilly day. Its rich and creamy texture offers a soothing experience, making it the ultimate comfort food. This soup not only warms your body but also nourishes your soul, providing a sense of home and happiness with every spoonful.
The delightful combination of butternut squash, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk creates a flavor profile that's both comforting and invigorating. Each bite is a reminder of the cozy moments spent around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer or a main course, this soup is sure to bring joy to your mealtime.
Nutritional Benefits
Butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting good vision. Its natural sweetness and creamy texture make it a perfect base for soups, while also providing a healthy dose of fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Coconut milk not only adds a creamy richness to the soup but also offers healthy fats that can support heart health. Combined with the anti-inflammatory properties of ginger and the warmth of nutmeg, this soup is a nourishing choice that can help boost your overall well-being.
Meal Prep Made Easy
This squash soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it an excellent option for meal prep. You can whip up a large batch in just one pot, and it stores beautifully in the refrigerator or freezer. This means you can enjoy a homemade, healthy meal even on your busiest days.
Simply reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave, and you'll have a satisfying dish ready in minutes. It's perfect for lunch at work or a quick dinner after a long day. Plus, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or toppings to keep things exciting!
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Gather all the ingredients listed above for a smooth cooking experience.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, ground ginger, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 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 to a blender in batches.
Finish with Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your creamy squash soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top!
Tips for the Perfect Soup
To achieve the best flavor, ensure that your butternut squash is fresh and ripe. Look for squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, firm skin. This will ensure your soup is bursting with natural sweetness and flavor.
Don't skip the sautéing step! Cooking the onion and garlic until they are golden and fragrant enhances the overall taste of the soup. It builds a flavor foundation that complements the sweetness of the squash beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your squash soup, consider adding a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds on top before serving. These simple additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
For a touch of freshness, you could garnish your soup with chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. This will brighten the dish and provide a wonderful contrast to the creamy texture of the soup.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with other types of squash, such as acorn or kabocha, for a different flavor profile. Each variety brings its own unique sweetness and texture, allowing you to customize the soup to your liking.
For added protein, consider mixing in some cooked lentils or chickpeas. This not only makes the soup heartier but also boosts its nutritional value, making it an even more satisfying meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash can be used, just ensure it's thawed before cooking.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already vegan as it uses coconut milk and vegetable broth.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots, sweet potatoes, or even spinach would be great additions.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Squash Soup Creamy Healthy
This creamy squash soup is a healthy, comforting dish perfect for any time of year.
Created by: Ainsley Harper
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, ground ginger, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a blender in batches.
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g