Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Enjoy a quick and comforting squash soup perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
This simple squash soup is a delightful way to warm up on a chilly evening. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it's a great addition to your weeknight meals.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that is both comforting and satisfying
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Packed with nutrients from fresh squash and spices
The Perfect Comfort Food
Squash soup is a quintessential comfort food that warms the soul and satisfies the palate. With its creamy consistency and rich flavors, this dish is ideal for those chilly evenings when you crave something hearty yet light. The natural sweetness of butternut squash combined with aromatic spices creates a delightful balance, making this soup a favorite among both adults and children alike.
Not only does this recipe provide comfort, but it also nourishes the body. Packed with vitamins A and C, butternut squash is a powerhouse of nutrition. Coupled with the health benefits of garlic and onion, this soup offers a wholesome option for a quick dinner without compromising on taste or quality.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the standout features of this squash soup is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a delicious meal in under 30 minutes. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want to prepare something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.
The steps are straightforward: sauté the vegetables, cook the squash, blend, and finish. This easy method ensures that even novice cooks can confidently create a delicious dish that impresses the entire family. Plus, the use of an immersion blender means less cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal rather than worrying about the dishes.
Versatile and Customizable
This squash soup recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different spices, such as curry powder or nutmeg, to give the soup a unique twist. You can also add in other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
For those who prefer a richer taste, the optional coconut milk adds a creamy texture and a hint of tropical flavor. Alternatively, you can leave it out for a lighter version. This adaptability makes the soup suitable for various dietary needs, whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Squash Soup
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 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)
Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for extra flavor!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash, vegetable broth, cumin, and ginger to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and mix it back in.
Finish the Soup
Stir in the coconut milk if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, storing squash soup is a breeze. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors often deepen and improve after a night in the fridge, making it even more delicious when reheated.
When you're ready to enjoy your soup again, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Pairing Suggestions
Squash soup pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. For a balanced meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or a slice of crusty bread. A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or a dollop of yogurt can enhance the soup's presentation and flavor, adding an extra crunch or creaminess to each spoonful.
Wine enthusiasts may enjoy complementing their soup with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The brightness of the wine can elevate the dish, creating a delightful dining experience that feels both cozy and sophisticated.
Nutritional Benefits
In addition to being delicious, this squash soup is loaded with nutritional benefits. Butternut squash is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which helps promote digestive health and keeps you feeling full longer. It's also rich in antioxidants that contribute to overall well-being.
The inclusion of garlic and onion not only enhances the flavor but also adds immune-boosting properties, making this soup a great choice during cold and flu season. With every bowl, you're not just satisfying your hunger; you're also providing your body with essential nutrients.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash for this recipe?
Yes, frozen squash works well. Just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to give it a kick.
→ Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Enjoy a quick and comforting squash soup perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Squash Soup
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 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)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Add the diced butternut squash, vegetable broth, cumin, and ginger to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and mix it back in.
Stir in the coconut milk if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g