Healthy Butternut Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A comforting and nutritious soup perfect for cozy nights.
This healthy butternut squash soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul. Packed with vitamins, it's not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture without the heavy cream
- Naturally sweet and savory flavors that delight your taste buds
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This vibrant orange vegetable is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune function. The antioxidants found in butternut squash can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases, making it an excellent addition to your diet.
Moreover, butternut squash is a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. This makes it an ideal ingredient for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or improve their overall gut health. Incorporating butternut squash into your meals can be a simple and tasty way to boost your nutrient intake.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This healthy butternut squash soup is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, preparing a cozy meal for your family, or looking for a quick lunch option, this soup fits the bill. Its comforting nature makes it perfect for chilly evenings, while its bright flavors can brighten up any gathering.
Additionally, this soup can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add your favorite herbs, spices, or even a splash of coconut milk for an extra layer of flavor. This flexibility allows you to make this recipe your own, ensuring it will always be a favorite in your household.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
One of the best things about this healthy butternut squash soup is its ability to be made ahead of time. After cooking, simply let the soup cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This makes it a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeks, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious meal without any fuss.
If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove for a quick and comforting meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Combine all the ingredients to create a delicious soup!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash, vegetable broth, ground ginger, and ground cinnamon to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches.
Season and Serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Enjoy your healthy and delicious butternut squash soup!
Serving Suggestions
This butternut squash soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or a slice of crusty whole-grain bread. The combination of textures and flavors will elevate your dining experience, making it both satisfying and nourishing.
For a gourmet touch, consider garnishing your soup with toasted pumpkin seeds, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. These additions not only enhance the presentation but also add an exciting burst of flavor that complements the soup perfectly.
Nutritional Information
This healthy butternut squash soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. A single serving provides a wealth of vitamins and minerals while remaining low in calories. It's an excellent source of beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body, supporting eye health and immune function.
Additionally, the soup is naturally low in fat and high in fiber, making it a heart-healthy choice. With its wholesome ingredients, this recipe aligns well with various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free diets. Enjoy this soup guilt-free while reaping its numerous health benefits.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, frozen butternut squash works well in this recipe and can save you time on prep.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes while cooking.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this butternut squash soup is vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no dairy.
Healthy Butternut Squash Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup perfect for cozy nights.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp 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 minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Add the diced butternut squash, vegetable broth, ground ginger, and ground cinnamon to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches.
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g