Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A deliciously creamy and nutritious soup that warms the soul.
This healthy squash soup is perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a dinner party. Packed with vitamins and flavor, it's a guilt-free indulgence.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich in vitamins A and C from the squash
- Creamy texture without the heavy cream
- Perfectly spiced for a comforting bowl of goodness
Nutritional Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is a powerhouse of nutrition, offering a wealth of vitamins and minerals essential for overall health. It's particularly rich in vitamins A and C, which play crucial roles in boosting the immune system and promoting healthy skin. These vitamins also contribute to vision health, making this soup a delicious way to nourish your body from the inside out.
In addition to its vitamin content, butternut squash is high in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut. Incorporating fiber-rich foods like squash into your diet can assist in weight management by promoting feelings of fullness, making it an excellent choice for those looking to eat healthily.
A Comforting Meal for Any Season
This Healthy Squash Soup is perfect for any time of year. Its creamy texture and warm spices make it an ideal dish for chilly fall and winter evenings, while its light and nutritious profile ensures you won't feel weighed down after enjoying a bowl. Serve it as a starter at your next dinner party or as a main dish paired with crusty bread for a satisfying lunch.
Moreover, the versatility of this soup allows for endless customization. You can easily add in other seasonal vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. This adaptability makes it not only a comforting meal but also a practical recipe to keep in your repertoire.
Tips for Perfecting Your Soup
To elevate the flavors of your Healthy Squash Soup, consider roasting the butternut squash before adding it to the pot. Roasting enhances the natural sweetness of the squash and adds depth to the soup's flavor profile. Simply toss the diced squash with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender before proceeding with the recipe.
If you're looking for a little extra creaminess without the calories of heavy cream, try adding a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of Greek yogurt just before serving. These options will give your soup a velvety texture while keeping it light and healthy.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious soup.
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your healthy squash soup.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash, vegetable broth, ground cumin, and ground ginger to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 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, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or fresh herbs if desired.
Your healthy squash soup is now ready to enjoy!
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Healthy Squash Soup, storing them is easy! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to five days, making it a convenient meal prep option for busy weeks ahead.
To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup has thickened, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, try serving it with a fresh salad topped with nuts and dried fruits for added crunch and flavor. A slice of whole-grain bread or a warm baguette can also complement the creamy soup beautifully.
For an extra touch, garnish your bowl with toasted pumpkin seeds or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds an extra layer of flavor that elevates the dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can use any type of squash you prefer, such as acorn or pumpkin.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no dairy products.
Healthy Squash Soup
A deliciously creamy and nutritious soup that warms the soul.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash, vegetable broth, ground cumin, and ground ginger to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 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, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 410mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g