Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A delicious and nutritious soup made with fresh squash, perfect for any season.
This Healthy Squash Soup is a warm, comforting dish that is packed with flavor and nutrients. Made with fresh squash and simple ingredients, it's perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture without the heavy cream
- Packed with vitamins and minerals from squash
- Perfectly spiced for a warm, comforting flavor
- Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights
The Benefits of Squash
Squash is a powerhouse of nutrition, providing essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Butternut squash, in particular, is rich in vitamins A and C, which are crucial for maintaining healthy skin and immune function. Additionally, its high fiber content aids in digestion, making it a great option for those looking to improve gut health.
Incorporating squash into your diet can also help with weight management. This low-calorie vegetable is filling and satisfying, which can reduce the likelihood of overeating. With its natural sweetness, squash provides a comforting flavor that can satisfy cravings without the need for added sugars.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Healthy Squash Soup is versatile enough to be served as a starter at a dinner party or as a cozy meal on a chilly evening. Its vibrant color and rich flavor make it visually appealing and comforting, perfect for impressing your guests or enjoying a quiet night in.
Moreover, this soup is an excellent choice for meal prep. It can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage. Simply reheat when you're ready to enjoy a warm, nutritious meal, making it ideal for busy schedules.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best aspects of this Healthy Squash Soup is its adaptability. You can easily customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices as well. Fresh thyme or rosemary can add a delightful aroma, while a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can brighten the flavors. Don't hesitate to make this soup your own and tailor it to your taste preferences!
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Gather all the ingredients before you begin cooking.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir well. Cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the ground cumin, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 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, you can carefully transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the soup warm, garnished with a sprinkle of pepper or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Enjoy your healthy squash soup with crusty bread or a side salad!
Storage Tips
To store your Healthy 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, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners during the week.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Pairing Suggestions
This delicious soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup, creating a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it with crusty whole-grain bread or a slice of homemade sourdough for dipping.
For an extra touch of indulgence, consider topping your soup with roasted pumpkin seeds or croutons for added texture. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese can also enhance the flavor profile and add a creamy element without the heaviness of traditional cream.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash works well too! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ How can I make it creamier?
You can add a splash of coconut milk or cream after blending for a richer texture.
→ Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this healthy squash soup is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Healthy Squash Soup
A delicious and nutritious soup made with fresh squash, perfect for any season.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Soup Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir well. Cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the ground cumin, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches.
Serve the soup warm, garnished with a sprinkle of pepper or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g