Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This easy weeknight squash soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for busy evenings.
This squash soup is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of fall any day of the week.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that soothes the soul
- Naturally sweet flavor from roasted squash
- Quick and easy to prepare on a busy weeknight
The Perfect Comfort Food
Squash soup is the quintessential comfort food for chilly evenings. Its warm and creamy texture envelops you like a cozy blanket, providing a sense of security and satisfaction. As you savor each spoonful, the natural sweetness of the roasted butternut squash shines through, making it a delightful dish for the senses. This soup not only warms you up but also nourishes your body with wholesome ingredients, making it a great choice for both your palate and your health.
What's more, this soup is incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite herbs and spices, or even complementing it with toppings like toasted pumpkin seeds or a swirl of yogurt. Each variation brings a new twist to the classic recipe, ensuring that you'll never tire of this comforting dish. Perfectly paired with crusty bread or a simple salad, it makes for a complete meal that is both satisfying and fulfilling.
Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal
In today’s fast-paced world, finding the time to cook a wholesome meal can be a challenge. Thankfully, this squash soup comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal on the table in no time. The straightforward steps make it easy even for novice cooks to whip up a delightful dish that the whole family will enjoy.
All you need are a handful of fresh ingredients, and you’re ready to go. The simplicity of the recipe means you won’t be overwhelmed by complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. This not only makes it accessible but also encourages you to experiment with seasonal squashes available in your local market. You can easily adapt the recipe to include other vegetables or flavors, ensuring that it stays fresh and exciting with every preparation.
Health Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It's rich in vitamins A and C, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting good vision. Additionally, the high fiber content in squash aids digestion and contributes to a feeling of fullness, making it a fantastic option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor.
Moreover, this soup is naturally low in calories and fat, especially when made without the optional coconut milk. However, if you're looking for an extra creamy texture, the coconut milk not only enhances the flavor but also adds healthy fats that can keep you satiated longer. Incorporating this squash soup into your weekly meal rotation is a delicious way to boost your intake of vegetables while enjoying a hearty and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
Enjoy your delicious squash soup!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
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, about 5 minutes.
Add Squash and Broth
Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, and ground cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches.
Finish with Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk for added creaminess, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through and serve warm.
Serve your soup with crusty bread or a sprinkle of herbs.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete dining experience, consider pairing your squash soup with a fresh, crusty bread or a light salad. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the soup beautifully. You may also want to add a sprinkle of croutons or toasted seeds on top for an added crunch. These side options not only enhance your meal but also provide an array of textures that keep each bite interesting.
If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a protein source like grilled chicken or chickpeas to the soup to make it even more satisfying. This can turn your soup into a heartier meal, perfect for those who enjoy a full plate. You can also serve the soup in individual bowls topped with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a touch of elegance.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This squash soup stores exceptionally well, making it a great dish for meal prep. Once cooled, transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to five days. You can also freeze portions for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of vegetable broth or water can help reach your desired consistency while reheating.
It's important to note that the flavors of the soup deepen and improve after a day in the fridge, making it an excellent candidate for leftovers. This means you can enjoy the comforting taste of homemade squash soup even on your busiest days, with minimal effort!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can use acorn squash or pumpkin as alternatives.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, it's vegan if you omit the coconut milk or use a plant-based alternative.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Freeze in individual portions for easy meals later.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
This easy weeknight squash soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for busy evenings.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
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, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, and ground cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches.
Stir in the coconut milk for added creaminess, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through and serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g