Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Healthy Squash Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish, perfect for chilly days.
This soup is not only healthy but also packed with flavors that will warm your soul. Perfect as a starter or a main course!
Why You'll Love This Healthy Squash Soup
- Creamy texture without the heavy cream
- Packed with vitamins and nutrients from fresh squash
- Easy to prepare, making it a weeknight favorite
- Deliciously seasoned with herbs and spices for a flavorful experience
The Nutritional Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It's rich in vitamin A, which is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. Additionally, squash contains vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and promotes collagen production for healthy skin.
Furthermore, squash is a great source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight. Its natural sweetness paired with savory spices creates a satisfying and nutritious meal that everyone can enjoy.
Serving Ideas and Variations
This Healthy Squash Soup is incredibly versatile. For added texture, consider topping it with roasted pumpkin seeds or croutons. You can also swirl in a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of coconut milk for a creamy finish. If you're looking to spice things up, try adding a hint of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
For those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes. Each addition will bring its unique flavor and nutrients, enhancing the soup's overall appeal and health benefits.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover squash soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer, making it a great make-ahead meal for busy weeks.
When reheating, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens in the refrigerator, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Healthy Squash Soup:
Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can proceed to the cooking steps!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Healthy Squash Soup:
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add the Squash and Broth
Add the diced butternut squash, vegetable broth, cumin, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25 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 regular blender.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy squash soup!
Why Choose Homemade Soup?
Making soup at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier meal free from preservatives and artificial additives. Homemade soup also offers the flexibility to customize flavors and textures according to your personal preferences, making it a satisfying option for everyone.
Additionally, preparing your soup can be a fun and rewarding activity. Gather friends or family for a cooking session, and enjoy the process of creating a comforting dish from scratch.
Pairing Suggestions
This Healthy Squash Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty whole-grain bread or a light salad for a complete meal. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup, adding a refreshing contrast that enhances the dining experience.
For those who enjoy wine, consider serving this dish with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red. Both options will beautifully complement the savory notes of the soup while elevating your meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen squash can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Freeze in portions and reheat as needed.
Healthy Squash Soup
This Healthy Squash Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish, perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash, vegetable broth, cumin, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25 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 regular blender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g