Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This creamy squash soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With its comforting flavors and simple ingredients, it's sure to be a hit with the whole family.
This delicious squash soup is not only healthy but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a bowl of comfort in no time.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
- Perfectly balanced flavors of sweet squash and savory spices
- Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights
The Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It is a fantastic source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. Additionally, squash is rich in fiber, which can aid digestion and help you feel fuller for longer. By incorporating squash into your diet, you're not just enjoying a tasty meal, but you're also nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.
This versatile vegetable is incredibly easy to work with. The sweet, nutty flavor of butternut squash complements a variety of spices and ingredients, making it a favorite in many cuisines. Whether roasted, mashed, or pureed into soups, squash can elevate any dish. In this easy weeknight squash soup, the squash shines through with its creamy texture and comforting taste, making it a family favorite.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy squash soup can be served as a starter or a main course, depending on your preference. Pair it with a simple side salad for a light dinner or serve it alongside crusty bread for a heartier meal. Adding toppings such as croutons, toasted pumpkin seeds, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can also enhance the flavor and presentation of the soup.
For a more substantial meal, consider adding protein to your soup. Shredded chicken or cooked lentils can be stirred in before serving to create a more filling option. This not only adds nutrition but also makes the dish more satisfying, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This makes the squash soup a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week without sacrificing flavor or quality. Just be sure to let the soup cool before transferring it to the fridge.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If the soup has thickened, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. This ensures that your creamy squash soup remains smooth and delicious, even on day two!
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (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, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash and ground cumin to the pot. Stir to combine, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer until the squash is tender, about 15 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup or use a regular blender in batches.
Finish and Serve
Stir in the heavy cream if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy!
Top with croutons or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor!
Nutritional Information
This creamy squash soup is not only comforting but also nutritious. A serving provides a wealth of vitamins and minerals while being relatively low in calories. With the addition of heavy cream, you can enjoy a rich flavor without compromising on health. If you want to keep it lighter, feel free to skip the cream or substitute it with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
The balance of carbohydrates and fiber in the butternut squash contributes to sustained energy levels. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you need a meal that will keep you energized and satisfied without the heaviness of traditional soups.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the great things about this squash soup recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different spices and ingredients to suit your taste. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. Alternatively, you can mix in other vegetables such as carrots or sweet potatoes for added depth of flavor.
Herbs like thyme or rosemary can also be added during the cooking process to introduce a fresh, aromatic element to the soup. Don't hesitate to get creative—this recipe serves as a fantastic base for your culinary explorations!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash for this recipe?
Yes, frozen squash can be used. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, simply omit the heavy cream or substitute with a plant-based cream for a vegan version.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
This creamy squash soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With its comforting flavors and simple ingredients, it's sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Soup Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash and ground cumin to the pot. Stir to combine, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer until the squash is tender, about 15 minutes.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup or use a regular blender in batches.
Stir in the heavy cream if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g