Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A delicious and nourishing squash soup that's perfect for any season.
This Healthy Squash Soup is a warm, comforting dish that is packed with nutrients. Made with fresh squash and a blend of spices, this soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a healthy lunch. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture without the cream, making it guilt-free
- Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh squash
- A cozy and comforting dish that's easy to prepare
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Nutritional Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not just a delicious ingredient; it's also a powerhouse of nutrition. Rich in vitamins A and C, this vibrant vegetable supports your immune system and promotes healthy skin. Additionally, its high fiber content aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their diet without sacrificing flavor.
Incorporating squash into your meals can also provide a good source of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. This nourishing soup is a fantastic way to enjoy all the benefits of squash while keeping your meal light and satisfying.
Versatility in Serving
This healthy squash soup is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. You can serve it as a hearty starter for a dinner party, a light lunch paired with crusty bread, or even as an appetizer for a festive gathering. Its creamy texture and rich flavor are sure to impress your guests and family alike.
Feel free to experiment with different garnishes to elevate your soup. A sprinkle of pumpkin seeds, a dollop of yogurt, or a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add a delightful touch, both visually and in taste.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
This squash soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. After cooking, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months, making it a convenient option for busy days.
When reheating, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. If the soup thickens while stored, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Enjoy the wholesome goodness of this soup!
Instructions
Prepare the Squash
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Add Squash and Spices
Stir in the diced butternut squash, ground cumin, and ground coriander, cooking for another 5 minutes.
Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then 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. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Enjoy your healthy and delicious squash soup!
Storage and Reheating
To store your leftover squash soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Portioning the soup into freezer-safe containers will make it easy to defrost only what you need for a quick meal later.
When you're ready to enjoy your soup again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent splatters.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best aspects of this healthy squash soup is its adaptability. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeño when cooking the onions and garlic.
If you're a fan of creaminess, try incorporating a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream at the blending stage for an extra decadent touch. You can also mix in other vegetables, such as carrots or sweet potatoes, to enhance the flavor and nutrition even further.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash can be used. Just ensure it is thawed before cooking.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for heat.
→ Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for longer storage.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches.
Healthy Squash Soup
A delicious and nourishing squash soup that's perfect for any season.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the diced butternut squash, ground cumin, and ground coriander, cooking for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then 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. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 3g