Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Healthy Squash Soup is a comforting, nutritious dish perfect for any time of the year.
This Healthy Squash Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a flavorful meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture without heavy cream
- Naturally sweet from the squash and spices
- Perfect for meal prepping and freezing
Nutritional Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. This vibrant orange vegetable also provides a good amount of potassium and fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting heart health. Incorporating butternut squash into your diet can help improve your overall health while satisfying your taste buds.
The spices used in this Healthy Squash Soup not only enhance flavor but also offer additional health benefits. Ginger, for instance, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion. Cinnamon is another spice that can help regulate blood sugar levels, making this soup not just delicious but also a smart choice for those mindful of their health.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
This Healthy Squash Soup is perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and refrigerate it for up to a week, making it an easy go-to meal for busy days. To store, simply let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This allows you to enjoy a nutritious, homemade meal whenever you need it.
If you want to keep the soup for an even longer period, consider freezing it! Portion the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This ensures you always have a healthy option available at a moment's notice.
Serving Suggestions
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Make sure to chop the vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot along with the ground ginger and cinnamon. Stir for a few minutes.
Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches to puree.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of herbs.
Enjoy your healthy squash soup with a slice of whole grain bread!
Cooking Variations
Feel free to get creative with this Healthy Squash Soup! You can add other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños during the cooking process. These variations can elevate the dish and cater to your personal preferences.
For a more robust flavor, try adding a splash of coconut milk or almond milk after blending. This will not only enhance the creaminess of the soup but also add a subtle sweetness that complements the spices beautifully. Each variation creates a unique twist on the classic recipe, ensuring that you never tire of this comforting dish.
Why Homemade is Best
Making soup from scratch, like this Healthy Squash Soup, allows you to control the ingredients and flavors, ensuring a healthier option than many store-bought varieties. Commercial soups often contain preservatives, added sugars, and excessive sodium, which can detract from the nutritional value. By preparing your soup at home, you can enjoy a wholesome meal without compromising on taste.
Additionally, homemade soup is incredibly satisfying and rewarding. The process of cooking can be therapeutic, and the aroma that fills your kitchen as the squash simmers is simply delightful. Sharing a warm bowl of soup with family or friends adds to the experience, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread.
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Absolutely! You can substitute butternut squash with acorn or pumpkin squash.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no dairy products.
Healthy Squash Soup
This Healthy Squash Soup is a comforting, nutritious dish 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
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot along with the ground ginger and cinnamon. Stir for a few minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches to puree.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of herbs.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g