Healthy Butternut Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Healthy Butternut Squash Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for chilly days.
Butternut squash soup is a classic autumn dish that is both healthy and satisfying. This recipe is packed with vitamins and minerals while offering a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, sweet flavor from roasted butternut squash
- Creamy texture without the extra calories
- Packed with nutrients and vitamins
- Perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. This vibrant orange vegetable is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and a robust immune system. The high fiber content in butternut squash aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer, making it an excellent choice for those looking to manage their weight.
In addition to its health benefits, butternut squash is versatile and can be used in various dishes. From soups and stews to salads and casseroles, its sweet flavor and creamy texture enhance any recipe. Incorporating butternut squash into your diet can also provide antioxidants that help combat free radicals in the body, promoting overall well-being.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Healthy Butternut Squash Soup is a fantastic option for a cozy dinner at home or a meal prep staple for busy weeknights. It can be made in large batches and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious meal anytime you need it. Simply reheat and serve for a quick and satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out.
Whether you're serving it as a starter for a holiday gathering or as the main course on a chilly evening, this soup is sure to impress. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal that your family and friends will love.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the great things about this butternut squash soup is how easily it can be customized to suit your taste preferences. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce during the blending step. You can also experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or smoked paprika, to give the soup a unique twist.
For added creaminess without the calories, consider stirring in a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of coconut milk just before serving. You can also incorporate other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for additional flavor and nutrition. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this soup your own!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create 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 ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: pumpkin seeds for topping
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your soup:
Prepare the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 25 minutes, or until tender.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Combine Ingredients
Once the squash is roasted, add it to the pot along with the vegetable broth, ground ginger, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Serve and Enjoy
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with pumpkin seeds if desired.
Now enjoy your warm and healthy butternut squash soup!
Storage Tips
Storing butternut squash soup is straightforward and convenient. After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 5 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, where it can last for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy the soup again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir well before serving, as some separation may occur during storage. Enjoying a homemade, healthy soup has never been easier!
Nutritional Information
This Healthy Butternut Squash Soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. A single serving is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, which is vital for eye health, and Vitamin C, which supports your immune system. Additionally, this soup is low in calories and high in fiber, making it an ideal option for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.
With the inclusion of olive oil, this recipe also provides healthy fats that can contribute to heart health. Overall, this soup offers a wholesome approach to comfort food that nourishes your body and satisfies your taste buds.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze butternut squash soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, then blend.
→ What can I serve with butternut squash soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it uses vegetable broth and no dairy.
Healthy Butternut Squash Soup
This Healthy Butternut Squash Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
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 ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: pumpkin seeds for topping
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 25 minutes, or until tender.
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Once the squash is roasted, add it to the pot along with the vegetable broth, ground ginger, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with pumpkin seeds if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 410mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g