Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This delicious squash soup is perfect for a quick weeknight meal, bursting with flavor and nutrients.
This easy weeknight squash soup is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor. The creamy texture and warm spices make it the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy flavor that comforts the soul
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
- Packed with vitamins and nutrients for a healthy meal
The Perfect Comfort Food
When the weather turns chilly, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of squash soup to soothe the soul. This recipe captures the essence of comfort food with its rich and creamy texture, making it an ideal choice for a cozy weeknight dinner. Butternut squash, with its natural sweetness, pairs beautifully with aromatic spices like cumin and ginger, creating a delightful harmony of flavors that will brighten any gloomy evening.
Not only is this squash soup delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the spices to suit your taste or add extra vegetables for more nutrition. Whether you enjoy it as a starter or a main dish, this soup is sure to impress family and friends alike. Plus, it makes for excellent leftovers that taste even better the next day!
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best features of this squash soup recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a nourishing meal ready in under 30 minutes. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. Just sauté the aromatics, add the squash and spices, and let it simmer while you unwind after a long day.
Using an immersion blender to puree the soup right in the pot saves time and reduces cleanup. However, if you prefer the traditional method, blending in batches with a regular blender works just as well. Either way, the process is straightforward and user-friendly, making it accessible even for novice cooks.
Nutritional Benefits
This squash soup is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a powerhouse of nutrition. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, both essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. Additionally, the inclusion of garlic and onion provides heart-healthy benefits, making this soup an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
The optional coconut milk adds a dose of healthy fats, contributing to a creamy consistency while also being dairy-free. This makes the soup suitable for various dietary preferences, including vegan and lactose-intolerant individuals. Enjoying this soup regularly can help you meet your daily vegetable intake while providing a comforting meal that nurtures both body and soul.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 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
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a seamless experience.
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add the Squash and Spices
Add the cubed butternut squash, ground cumin, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes.
Simmer the Soup
Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, be careful with the hot liquid.
Finish with Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk for added creaminess, and adjust seasoning to taste. Heat through and serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious squash soup with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your squash soup experience, consider serving it with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. These finishing touches not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful visual appeal to your dish. For an extra layer of texture, top your soup with toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons for a delightful crunch.
Pair this soup with a simple side salad or a warm crusty bread to complete your meal. The combination of flavors and textures will create a satisfying dining experience that leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Storage and Reheating
This squash soup stores beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
If you find the soup has thickened after refrigeration, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or water during reheating to achieve your desired consistency. This way, you can savor the comforting flavors of this delicious soup anytime you crave it.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can use acorn squash or pumpkin as alternatives.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is vegan if you omit the coconut milk or use a plant-based substitute.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes while cooking for some heat.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
This delicious squash soup is perfect for a quick weeknight meal, bursting with flavor and nutrients.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Soup Ingredients
- 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
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed butternut squash, ground cumin, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, be careful with the hot liquid.
Stir in the coconut milk for added creaminess, and adjust seasoning to taste. Heat through and serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g