Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This easy weeknight squash soup is a comforting bowl of warmth and flavor, perfect for chilly evenings.
This squash soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together quickly and is sure to please the whole family.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture with a hint of sweetness from the squash
- Simple ingredients that are easy to find
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
A Nourishing Choice
Squash soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, providing a boost to your immune system and promoting healthy skin. The natural sweetness of the squash combined with the creaminess of the coconut milk creates a satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out. This makes it a perfect choice for those chilly weeknight dinners when you're craving comfort food that also nourishes your body.
Additionally, this soup is a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a wholesome meal that the whole family will love. Whether you're looking for a light dinner or a hearty starter, this squash soup fits the bill. It's versatile enough to serve as a side dish or the main event, allowing you to adapt it to your dining needs.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best features of this squash soup is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes it an ideal option for busy individuals who want homemade meals without the hassle of cooking every day. Simply reheat a portion when you're ready to eat, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this soup anytime.
For those who like to freeze meals, this soup freezes beautifully. Portion it out in airtight containers, and you’ll have a warm, comforting bowl of goodness ready to go at a moment's notice. Just remember to leave some space in the container for expansion during freezing. This flexibility not only saves time but also reduces food waste, making it a win-win for your kitchen.
Customize Your Flavor
While this recipe is already delicious as is, feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding spices such as cumin, nutmeg, or ginger to enhance the flavor profile and give the soup a unique twist. Fresh herbs like thyme or sage can also add a wonderful aromatic quality that elevates the dish. Experimenting with different toppings, such as roasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of chili oil, can add texture and additional flavor.
You can also adjust the consistency of the soup to your liking. If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or add more squash. Conversely, for a lighter texture, feel free to add extra broth or coconut milk. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability, making it easy to make it your own.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir well. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the squash to slightly soften.
Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring 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, transfer to a blender in batches and blend until creamy.
Add Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for a few minutes.
Serve warm, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk or fresh herbs if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy squash soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal. A simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich soup. Consider serving it with a side of grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic combination that everyone will enjoy. The gooey, melted cheese complements the soup's creaminess perfectly, making it a fun and nostalgic meal.
For a more elegant presentation, serve the soup in small bowls as an appetizer for your dinner parties. A sprinkle of toasted nuts or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the dish, giving it a gourmet touch while remaining easy to prepare. Your guests will be impressed by the flavors and the beautiful colors of the dish.
Storage Tips
To store leftover squash soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or coconut milk if necessary to restore its creamy texture. Stir well to ensure even heating.
If you notice the soup has thickened upon refrigeration, don’t worry! Simply add a little water or broth while reheating to achieve your desired consistency. This will help maintain the soup's velvety texture, allowing you to enjoy it just as much as when it was freshly made.
Nutritional Benefits
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrition. It's low in calories yet high in fiber, making it beneficial for digestion and weight management. The antioxidants found in squash, such as beta-carotene, can help reduce inflammation and promote overall health. Additionally, the coconut milk used in this recipe adds healthy fats, providing a source of energy and aiding in nutrient absorption.
Including this soup in your weekly meal rotation can contribute to a balanced diet. It's a great way to satisfy your cravings for comfort food while still making healthy choices. Plus, the vibrant orange color of the squash is a reminder of the rich nutrients it contains, encouraging you to enjoy every spoonful guilt-free.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash works well in this recipe. Just ensure it's thawed before cooking.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan as it uses vegetable broth and coconut milk.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños during the cooking process for a kick.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
This easy weeknight squash soup is a comforting bowl of warmth and flavor, perfect for chilly evenings.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir well. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the squash to slightly soften.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring 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, transfer to a blender in batches and blend until creamy.
Stir in the coconut milk, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for a few minutes.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 3g