Squash Soup Slow Cooker
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy and comforting squash soup is perfect for chilly days and can be easily prepared in a slow cooker.
This squash soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the heart and soul. The slow cooker makes it simple to prepare, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that's incredibly comforting
- Perfectly spiced for a warm, inviting flavor
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
The Benefits of Squash
Squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Butternut squash, in particular, is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. Additionally, it contains dietary fiber, which supports digestive health. Including squash in your diet can contribute to overall wellness, making this soup not just comforting but nourishing as well.
This versatile vegetable has a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with various spices. In this recipe, the combination of cumin and nutmeg enhances the natural sweetness of the butternut squash, creating a warm and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. Embracing seasonal ingredients like squash also means you're getting the freshest and most flavorful produce available.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best things about this squash soup is its meal prep potential. Preparing a large batch in the slow cooker allows you to portion out servings for the week, making it an excellent option for busy days. Simply store the cooled soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze for longer storage, ensuring you always have a healthy meal on hand.
This soup also adapts well to various toppings and sides. You can serve it with crusty bread for a hearty lunch or drizzle with a bit of balsamic glaze for added flavor. The possibilities are endless, making it a versatile dish that keeps your meals interesting throughout the week.
Customizing Your Soup
While this recipe offers a rich and creamy base, feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat or toss in some chopped apples for a hint of sweetness. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme or sage, to create a unique flavor profile that excites your palate.
For a heartier soup, consider adding some cooked lentils or chickpeas. These additions not only boost the nutritional value but also enhance the texture, making each spoonful even more satisfying. The beauty of this squash soup lies in its flexibility, allowing you to make it your own!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious squash soup:
Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Once you have all the ingredients, you are ready to start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious squash soup:
Prepare the Ingredients
In a slow cooker, add the cubed butternut squash, chopped onion, diced carrots, and minced garlic.
Add the Broth and Spices
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the ground cumin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cook the Soup
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches.
Add Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk for a creamier texture, if desired.
Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if using. Enjoy!
Your delicious squash soup is now ready to be enjoyed!
Storage Tips
To store your leftover squash soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the soup if it has thickened over time. This will help restore its creamy consistency and ensure a delightful bowl every time.
When freezing, consider portioning the soup into single-serving containers. This makes it easy to grab a quick lunch or dinner on those busy days. Just remember to leave some space at the top of the container, as soups can expand when frozen.
Nutritional Information
This squash soup is not only delicious but also nutrient-dense. A typical serving contains a good balance of carbohydrates, fiber, and healthy fats, particularly if you opt for the coconut milk. It's naturally low in calories, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight while still enjoying a satisfying meal.
The addition of vegetables like carrots and onions increases the soup's vitamin and mineral content, contributing to a well-rounded diet. Including such nutrient-rich foods in your meals can help you feel fuller for longer and provide sustained energy throughout the day.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.
→ How can I make it vegan?
This recipe is already vegan when using vegetable broth and coconut milk.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly! Feel free to add potatoes, sweet potatoes, or other root vegetables.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Squash Soup Slow Cooker
This creamy and comforting squash soup is perfect for chilly days and can be easily prepared in a slow cooker.
Created by: Ainsley Harper
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a slow cooker, add the cubed butternut squash, chopped onion, diced carrots, and minced garlic.
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the ground cumin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours or until the squash is tender.
Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches.
Stir in the coconut milk for a creamier texture, if desired.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if using. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 4g