Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This easy weeknight squash soup is a comforting bowl of warmth and flavor, perfect for busy evenings.
This squash soup is a delightful dish that combines the natural sweetness of squash with aromatic spices. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms your soul
- Rich, natural sweetness from fresh squash
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 40 minutes
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
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 a strong immune system. The vibrant orange color of the squash indicates a high level of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that supports eye health. Incorporating butternut squash into your diet can enhance your overall well-being while providing a delightful flavor to your dishes.
Additionally, butternut squash is a great source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping to keep you feeling full longer. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. With its natural sweetness, butternut squash adds a comforting element to soups and other recipes, making it a beloved ingredient in many cuisines.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
In our fast-paced lives, it's essential to have go-to recipes that are both quick and satisfying. This easy weeknight squash soup can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy evenings when you don’t have much time to cook. The simplicity of the recipe allows you to whip up a hearty meal without feeling overwhelmed, and the comforting flavors make it a family favorite.
Moreover, this soup is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices, or even include other vegetables you have on hand. It's a great way to use up leftover produce while creating a delicious meal. Whether you're serving it with crusty bread or a fresh salad, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover squash soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. It's a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors throughout the week. When storing, make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing it to avoid condensation that can dilute the flavors.
To reheat, simply pour the soup into a pot over medium heat or use the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. If the soup has thickened, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Enjoying a warm bowl of squash soup on a busy day is a simple pleasure that can bring a sense of comfort and satisfaction.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your delicious squash soup.
Ingredients
- 2 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
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious squash soup.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash and ground cumin to the pot. Stir for a few minutes, then pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
Simmer
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your warm and delicious squash soup!
Serving Suggestions
This squash soup pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a classic touch, serve it with a slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping. A sprinkle of croutons on top adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy soup. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
For those looking to elevate their dining experience, consider drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze or a swirl of pesto on top just before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds another layer of flavor that complements the soup's natural sweetness.
Nutritional Information
This squash soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. A single serving contains a good amount of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. The fiber content from both the squash and any additional vegetables helps to support a healthy digestive system, making this soup a wholesome choice.
If you're looking to make it a bit lighter, you can omit the heavy cream or substitute it with a plant-based alternative. This adjustment will still provide a creamy texture while reducing calories and saturated fat. Regardless of how you prepare it, this soup is a nourishing option for any meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash for this recipe?
Yes, frozen squash can work, but make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
Simply omit the heavy cream or substitute it with coconut milk for a vegan option.
→ What can I serve with squash soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
This easy weeknight squash soup is a comforting bowl of warmth and flavor, perfect for busy evenings.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 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
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
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 is translucent.
Add the diced butternut squash and ground cumin to the pot. Stir for a few minutes, then pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 560mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g