Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Warm up your evenings with this easy and delicious squash soup, perfect for weeknight dinners.
This squash soup is not only simple to make but also comforting and full of flavor. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal, it's packed with nutrients and can be easily customized with your favorite spices.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Smooth and creamy texture that's satisfying.
- Naturally sweet and savory flavors that warm you up.
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings.
A Comforting Classic
Squash soup is a timeless favorite that brings warmth and comfort to any table. The rich, velvety texture combined with the natural sweetness of the butternut squash makes it a delightful dish for all ages. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup not only nourishes the body but also soothes the soul, making it an ideal addition to your weeknight meal rotation.
This easy weeknight recipe is designed with busy lifestyles in mind. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a homemade meal on the table in under an hour. It's perfect for those nights when you're short on time but still want to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful dish. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavors to shine through, creating a satisfying experience.
Nutritional Benefits
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and vision. Additionally, this squash is a great source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you feeling full longer. Combining it with coconut milk adds healthy fats, making this soup both nourishing and satisfying.
The addition of spices like cumin and nutmeg enhances the soup's flavor profile while also providing health benefits. Cumin is known for its digestive properties, while nutmeg has anti-inflammatory effects. Together, these ingredients elevate the dish beyond a simple soup, contributing to a meal that is as healthful as it is comforting.
Serving Suggestions
This squash soup is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for dipping. A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds on top not only adds a crunchy texture but also boosts the nutritional content, making each bowl even more satisfying.
For an extra touch of flavor, consider garnishing your soup with a swirl of extra coconut milk or a dash of chili flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat. This simple addition can transform your dish from comforting to gourmet, impressing family and friends alike. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a main course, this soup will surely become a beloved staple in your home.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot. Stir in the ground cumin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the 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, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches. Once blended, return to the pot.
Finish with Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk and heat through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious squash soup with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of herbs.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, this squash soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and let it cool before sealing. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. You may want to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to thin it out if it has thickened during storage.
For longer storage, this soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion. When you're ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variations to Try
While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. For a touch of heat, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper when sautéing the vegetables. You can also incorporate other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added texture and flavor. Each variation can bring a new twist to this classic dish.
If you're looking to add protein to your meal, consider stirring in some cooked lentils or chickpeas before blending. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also makes the soup heartier, perfect for a filling dinner. Don't hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash works well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan as it uses coconut milk and vegetable broth.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Warm up your evenings with this easy and delicious squash soup, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot. Stir in the ground cumin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the 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, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches. Once blended, return to the pot.
Stir in the coconut milk and heat through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 2g