Healthy Butternut Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Enjoy a warm bowl of this delicious and nutritious butternut squash soup, perfect for any time of the year.
This healthy butternut squash soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. It's the perfect comfort food during chilly days, loaded with vitamins and a delightful flavor that will warm your heart.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture without heavy cream
- Naturally sweet and savory flavors
- Perfect for meal prep and freezing
Nutritional Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This vibrant vegetable is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, both of which play vital roles in maintaining good vision, immune function, and skin health. Additionally, butternut squash is rich in potassium, providing heart health benefits and helping to regulate blood pressure.
The fiber content in butternut squash is another compelling reason to include it in your diet. High fiber foods promote healthy digestion and can help you feel fuller for longer, making it an ideal choice for those looking to manage their weight. This soup not only warms your soul but also nourishes your body.
Moreover, the antioxidants found in butternut squash may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases. Including this superfood in your meals can contribute to overall health and wellness, making this soup a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire.
Versatile Serving Suggestions
This butternut squash soup is wonderfully versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Serve it as a starter for a cozy family dinner or as a light lunch paired with crusty whole-grain bread. For a more substantial meal, consider adding protein such as grilled chicken or chickpeas to the soup, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
If you're entertaining guests, this soup can be elegantly presented as a first course. Just drizzle a bit of cream or coconut milk over the top and sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an eye-catching presentation. It’s a comforting yet sophisticated dish that’s sure to impress.
For those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, feel free to customize the flavors of this soup. Adding spices such as ginger or nutmeg can provide a unique twist, while incorporating other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes can create a more complex flavor profile.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious soup:
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Optional: cream or coconut milk for garnish
Once you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your tasty butternut squash soup:
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Add the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, stirring to combine. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the squash to slightly soften.
Pour in the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the ground cumin. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender.
Season and Serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of cream or coconut milk if desired.
Enjoy your healthy butternut squash soup!
Tips for Perfecting Your Soup
To achieve the best flavor in your butternut squash soup, roasting the squash before adding it to the pot can intensify its natural sweetness. Simply cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and roast it cut-side down on a baking sheet until tender. This extra step will elevate the soup's taste.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs and spices. While cumin adds a lovely warmth, consider trying rosemary or thyme for a different flavor profile. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick if you're looking for some heat, balancing the natural sweetness of the squash.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this butternut squash soup with a crisp salad for a balanced meal. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar can complement the creamy texture of the soup while adding freshness to your plate.
For a cozy night in, serve the soup alongside a grilled cheese sandwich made with your favorite bread and cheese. The gooey, melty cheese pairs perfectly with the warm, savory soup, creating a comforting meal that the whole family will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, frozen butternut squash works great and can save you prep time!
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the pot while cooking.
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Just ensure your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Healthy Butternut Squash Soup
Enjoy a warm bowl of this delicious and nutritious butternut squash soup, perfect for any time of the year.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Optional: cream or coconut milk for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, stirring to combine. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the squash to slightly soften.
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the ground cumin. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender.
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of cream or coconut milk if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g