Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This easy weeknight squash soup is a comforting and delicious way to enjoy seasonal produce. Perfect for a quick dinner!
This squash soup is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a bowl of cozy goodness that warms the soul. It's perfect for busy weeknights and can be made ahead of time.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that comforts the palate
- Packed with nutrients from fresh squash
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights
The Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is a nutrient-dense vegetable that is packed with vitamins A and C, both of which are essential for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and immune function. Additionally, it's rich in fiber, which supports digestive health and can help keep you feeling full longer. Incorporating squash into your diet is an easy way to boost your overall health while enjoying a delicious meal.
This versatile vegetable is not only nutritious but also incredibly flavorful. Its naturally sweet and nutty taste complements a variety of spices and ingredients, making it a perfect base for soups, stews, and even salads. By using seasonal squash in your meals, you can enjoy the peak flavors and contribute to sustainable eating practices.
Perfect Pairings for Squash Soup
Squash soup is a comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, consider serving it with crusty bread or a simple green salad. The crunchiness of fresh greens and the heartiness of bread provide a delightful contrast to the creamy soup, making each bite a new experience.
For those looking to elevate their meal further, try adding a protein like grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas on top of your soup. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds an exciting texture to the dish. Experimenting with different toppings, like croutons or a dollop of yogurt, can also create a personalized twist on this classic recipe.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This squash soup is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to three months. Freezing the soup in individual portions can make reheating a breeze.
When it comes to reheating, simply transfer the soup to a pot and warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup appears too thick after being refrigerated or frozen, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. This way, you can enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of soup any day of the week.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pumpkin seeds for garnish
Gather all your ingredients for the best results.
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, about 5 minutes.
Add the Squash
Stir in the cubed butternut squash and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing it to soften slightly.
Pour in the Broth
Add the vegetable broth to the pot, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Remove the pot from heat and carefully blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it in batches to a blender.
Add Coconut Milk
Return the soup to low heat and stir in the coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it warm for a few minutes before serving.
Serve
Garnish with pumpkin seeds if desired, and serve hot.
Enjoy your warm bowl of squash soup!
Why Choose Coconut Milk?
Coconut milk adds a rich, creamy texture to the soup while also imparting a subtle sweetness that balances the earthiness of the squash. It’s a fantastic dairy-free alternative that enhances the soup's flavor profile, making it accessible for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
In addition to its delicious taste, coconut milk is packed with healthy fats, specifically medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which have been shown to support brain health and provide a quick source of energy. Incorporating coconut milk into your recipes not only elevates the dish but also adds nutritional benefits.
Customizing Your Soup
This squash soup recipe serves as a fantastic canvas for creativity. You can easily customize it by adding spices like nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm, autumnal flavor. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes, which can bring an exciting dimension to the dish.
Additionally, feel free to mix in other vegetables such as carrots or sweet potatoes for added sweetness and depth. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability—you can adjust it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences, making it a truly unique meal each time.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can use acorn squash or pumpkin as substitutes.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it uses vegetable broth and coconut milk.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
This easy weeknight squash soup is a comforting and delicious way to enjoy seasonal produce. Perfect for a quick dinner!
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pumpkin seeds for garnish
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, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the cubed butternut squash and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing it to soften slightly.
Add the vegetable broth to the pot, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Remove the pot from heat and carefully blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it in batches to a blender.
Return the soup to low heat and stir in the coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it warm for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with pumpkin seeds if desired, and serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g