Healthy Butternut Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A comforting and nutritious soup that's perfect for any season.
This healthy butternut squash soup is a delightful way to enjoy a nutritious meal. Packed with vitamins and flavor, it’s perfect for those chilly days.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture without the cream
- Naturally sweet and savory flavors
- Simple ingredients and easy to make
The Nutritional Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that are beneficial for your health. This vibrant vegetable is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which play crucial roles in maintaining healthy skin and boosting the immune system. Additionally, it is rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps to keep you feeling full longer.
Furthermore, butternut squash contains antioxidants that help protect your body from oxidative stress. These compounds can reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases, making this soup a wholesome choice for anyone looking to improve their overall health.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This healthy butternut squash soup is ideal for meal prepping, as it stores well in the refrigerator and freezes beautifully. Make a big batch over the weekend, and you’ll have delicious meals ready to go throughout the week. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick and nutritious lunch or dinner.
Additionally, this soup can be customized with various toppings or sides to keep your meals interesting. Consider pairing it with whole-grain bread, a fresh salad, or even a sprinkle of roasted seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
Versatile and Adaptable
One of the best aspects of this butternut squash soup recipe is its versatility. You can easily modify it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a creamier texture, feel free to add a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving. You can also spice it up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of nutmeg for a unique twist.
If you’re looking to boost the vegetable content, consider adding other seasonal vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes. Blending different flavors and textures can enhance the soup and provide even more nutritional benefits.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
Add Squash and Spices
Add the cubed butternut squash, ginger, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Pour in the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 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.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or some fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy butternut squash soup!
Storage Tips
To store leftover butternut squash soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing the soup in portion-sized containers. It can last for up to three months in the freezer.
When reheating, ensure that the soup is heated thoroughly before serving. You may need to add a little water or broth to restore its creamy consistency after freezing.
Serving Suggestions
This butternut squash soup can be served as a starter or a main course. For a heartier meal, consider adding protein sources like shredded chicken, chickpeas, or lentils. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also make the soup more filling.
Garnish your soup with a swirl of olive oil, fresh herbs, or toasted seeds to elevate its presentation and flavor. A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad pairs wonderfully with this comforting dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, frozen butternut squash can be used. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños while cooking.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth.
Healthy Butternut Squash Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup that's perfect for any season.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
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 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
Add the cubed butternut squash, ginger, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 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.
Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or some fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 3g