Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A comforting and nutritious squash soup that warms the soul.
This healthy squash soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it the perfect dish for any season.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture without heavy cream
- Naturally sweet from fresh squash and spices
- Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner
A Nutrient Powerhouse
Squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Butternut squash, the star of this soup, is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. This soup is a fantastic way to incorporate these nutrients into your diet, especially during the colder months when fresh produce might be limited.
In addition to its vitamins, butternut squash is a great source of dietary fiber. Fiber plays a crucial role in digestive health, helping to keep your gut happy and functioning optimally. By enjoying this soup, you're not only satisfying your taste buds but also nurturing your body.
Versatile Meal Option
This Healthy Squash Soup is incredibly versatile, making it a great addition to any meal plan. It can be served as a hearty starter, a light lunch, or even as a satisfying dinner alongside a salad or some crusty bread. Its rich flavor pairs beautifully with various dishes, allowing you to enjoy it in multiple ways throughout the week.
Moreover, this soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store individual portions in the fridge or freezer, ensuring you have a healthy meal ready to go whenever you need it. Just reheat and enjoy for a quick, nutritious meal that's full of flavor.
Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best aspects of this squash soup is how easily it can be customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different spices or add-ins, such as ginger for a hint of warmth or chili flakes for a kick. You can also incorporate other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes to enhance the flavor and nutrition further.
For those who enjoy a bit of texture, consider adding roasted seeds or croutons as a topping. This not only adds a satisfying crunch but also elevates the presentation of the soup, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Ensure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Instructions
Sauté the Base
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir well. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. 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, transfer the soup to a blender in batches. Be careful with hot liquids!
Season and Serve
Stir in the ground cumin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers of this delicious squash soup, storing them is simple. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in individual portions. This way, you can easily defrost only what you need for a quick meal. Just remember to leave some space in the container, as liquids expand when frozen!
Pairing Suggestions
This Healthy Squash Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A simple mixed green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can complement the soup's richness perfectly. Alternatively, consider serving it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a cozy meal.
For those looking to enhance the flavor profile, a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top can add creaminess and a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the squash. Additionally, a few fresh herbs like parsley or chives can brighten up the dish and add a pop of color.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can use pumpkin or acorn squash as well.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely and then store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Healthy Squash Soup
A comforting and nutritious squash soup that warms the soul.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir well. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. 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, transfer the soup to a blender in batches. Be careful with hot liquids!
Stir in the ground cumin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g