Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Enjoy a comforting bowl of squash soup that's perfect for weeknight dinners. This easy recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition.
This squash soup is not only delicious but also simple to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The natural sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with spices and a hint of cream.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms your soul
- Sweet and savory flavors that delight the palate
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any weeknight
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It's rich in vitamins A and C, which are important for maintaining healthy skin and vision. The high fiber content in butternut squash aids in digestion and helps to keep you feeling full, making it an excellent choice for a comforting soup during the week.
In addition to its nutritional benefits, butternut squash contains antioxidants which can help combat inflammation and support your immune system. Incorporating this vibrant vegetable into your meals is a wonderful way to add color and health benefits to your diet, especially during the colder months when warm soups are especially comforting.
A Versatile Base for Your Soup
This squash soup recipe serves as a versatile base that you can customize to your liking. Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots or sweet potatoes for added flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different spices, like ginger or nutmeg, to enhance the sweetness of the squash and create a unique flavor profile.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to give your soup an extra kick. Additionally, garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley right before serving can elevate the presentation and add a fresh burst of flavor.
Perfect Pairings
Squash soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a complete meal. A crusty piece of bread or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. Alternatively, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
For a heartier option, consider serving the soup alongside a grilled cheese sandwich. The gooey, melty cheese complements the creamy texture of the soup beautifully, creating a nostalgic and satisfying meal that's sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for a delicious squash soup.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious squash soup.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash and ground cumin to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.
Add Broth and Simmer
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, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can blend in batches in a regular blender.
Finish with Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through and serve warm.
Your delicious squash soup is ready to be enjoyed!
Storing and Reheating
This squash soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep. To reheat, simply pour the soup into a pot and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in a bowl for a quick meal.
If you want to store the soup for longer, consider freezing it. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above.
Nutritional Information
This squash soup is not only delicious but also nutritious, providing a healthy option for weeknight dinners. A typical serving contains approximately 200 calories, making it a low-calorie choice packed with vitamins and minerals. The inclusion of coconut milk adds healthy fats, contributing to a well-rounded meal.
The fiber content in butternut squash aids digestion and keeps you satisfied longer, making it an excellent option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Additionally, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth enhances the soup's nutritional profile, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash can be used. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly using vegetable broth and coconut milk.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Enjoy a comforting bowl of squash soup that's perfect for weeknight dinners. This easy recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash and ground cumin to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.
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, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can blend in batches in a regular blender.
Stir in the coconut milk, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through and serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 3g