Healthy Butternut Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Healthy Butternut Squash Soup is a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days. Packed with nutrients and flavor, it's a great addition to any meal.
This butternut squash soup is not only healthy but also incredibly easy to make. The natural sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with spices and creamy coconut milk, creating a deliciously comforting dish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, velvety texture that warms your soul
- Packed with vitamins and nutrients for a healthy boost
- Perfectly spiced for a comforting flavor
Nutritional Benefits
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also a nutritional powerhouse. This orange-hued vegetable is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and a robust immune system. Moreover, it contains fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling satisfied longer. By incorporating butternut squash into your diet, you're not just enjoying a tasty dish; you're also providing your body with essential nutrients that promote overall health.
The addition of coconut milk in this soup adds a creamy texture while also boosting its nutritional profile. Coconut milk contains healthy fats that can support heart health and provide a quick source of energy. Together, butternut squash and coconut milk create a balanced dish that is as nourishing as it is comforting, making it an excellent choice for those seeking healthy meal options.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Healthy Butternut Squash Soup is an ideal dish for meal prep enthusiasts. It can be made in large batches and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, or frozen for longer-term storage. This means you can enjoy a warm, homemade meal anytime without the hassle of cooking from scratch every day. Simply reheat and enjoy a comforting bowl of soup that tastes as good as when it was first made.
Additionally, this soup's flavors deepen and improve after sitting for a day, making it a perfect candidate for preparing ahead of time. This not only saves you time during busy weekdays but also ensures that you always have a healthy option on hand. Pair it with a slice of whole-grain bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Variations and Customizations
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process for a smoother experience.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Once the squash is tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender. Stir in the coconut milk and heat through.
Serve
Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot. Enjoy your healthy butternut squash soup!
Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch!
Storage Tips
To store your Healthy Butternut Squash Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to five days, ensuring it remains fresh and ready to enjoy. If you plan to freeze the soup, it's best to do so in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags. This makes it convenient to grab and reheat a serving whenever you need a quick meal.
When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much during storage, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Enjoying this healthy soup again is just a few minutes away!
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Healthy Butternut Squash Soup with a variety of accompaniments to create a satisfying meal. A crusty piece of whole-grain bread or a warm baguette makes for a delightful combination, perfect for dipping. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad topped with nuts and seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
For an extra touch, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top of the soup just before serving. This will provide a creamy contrast to the velvety soup and enhance the overall flavor experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, frozen butternut squash works well in this recipe and can save you prep time.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is completely vegan and dairy-free.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, sweet potatoes, or any other vegetables you like.
Healthy Butternut Squash Soup
This Healthy Butternut Squash Soup is a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days. Packed with nutrients and flavor, it's a great addition to any meal.
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 cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Once the squash is tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender. Stir in the coconut milk and heat through.
Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot. Enjoy your healthy butternut squash soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 3g