Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This easy weeknight squash soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that's perfect for busy evenings. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it's sure to become a family favorite.
This squash soup is a delightful blend of flavors that comes together effortlessly, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner. The sweetness of the squash, combined with aromatic spices, creates a bowl of comfort that warms the soul.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that soothes and satisfies
- Rich, natural sweetness from the squash
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
The Health Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. Its high fiber content can aid digestion, helping to keep you feeling satisfied and full longer. Including squash in your diet not only adds flavor but also contributes to your overall well-being.
Additionally, butternut squash is low in calories and rich in antioxidants, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight. The natural sweetness of the squash can satisfy cravings for sugary snacks, allowing you to enjoy a healthy dessert alternative without the guilt.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This squash soup is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner for friends, preparing a quick meal for your family, or looking for a comforting dish on a chilly evening, this recipe fits the bill. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation allow you to whip it up in no time, ensuring you can serve a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
You can also customize this soup to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Add spices like nutmeg or cayenne for a kick, or toss in some cooked lentils for added protein. The possibilities are endless, making it a dish you can enjoy time and time again.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, this soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to five days. Simply allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Squash Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: cream or coconut milk for garnish
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth preparation process.
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot along with the cumin, ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 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, then return it to the pot.
Serve
Adjust seasoning if needed, then ladle the soup into bowls. Drizzle with cream or coconut milk if desired, and enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of this easy squash soup.
What to Serve with Squash Soup
Pairing this squash soup with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal experience. A warm, crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich makes for a comforting combination. The richness of the soup complements the crunchy texture of the bread, providing a satisfying contrast.
For a lighter option, consider serving the soup with a fresh salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the creamy nature of the soup, adding freshness and crunch to your meal.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different types of squash in this recipe. Acorn squash or kabocha can offer unique flavors and textures, allowing you to personalize the soup to your liking. You can also mix in other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added depth and nutrition.
For a hint of spice, add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of chili powder during the cooking process. This will give your soup a delightful kick without overpowering the natural sweetness of the squash.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash for this recipe?
Yes, frozen squash works well! Just make sure to thaw it before cooking.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
Simply use vegetable broth and skip the cream or use coconut milk instead.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple salad.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
This easy weeknight squash soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that's perfect for busy evenings. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it's sure to become a family favorite.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Squash Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: cream or coconut milk for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot along with the cumin, ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 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, then return it to the pot.
Adjust seasoning if needed, then ladle the soup into bowls. Drizzle with cream or coconut milk if desired, and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g