Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This squash soup is a delightful and easy recipe perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
This squash soup is not only easy to prepare but also comforting and delicious. It's perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something warm and satisfying.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and velvety texture that warms you from the inside out
- Packed with nutrients from fresh squash
- Quick and simple to make, perfect for weeknight meals
A Perfect Comfort Food
Squash soup is the quintessential comfort food that you can enjoy any night of the week. Its creamy texture and rich flavors create a dish that not only fills you up but also warms your soul. Whether you're snuggled up on the couch or hosting a small dinner party, this soup is sure to impress. It's an easy way to elevate a simple meal into something special, making it a staple in many households.
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of butternut squash with aromatic garlic and onion, creating a symphony of flavors. The addition of coconut milk adds a delightful creaminess that complements the earthy undertones of the squash. Overall, this soup is more than just a meal; it's a delicious way to nourish both your body and spirit.
Nutritional Benefits
Butternut squash is not just delicious; it's also packed with essential nutrients. Rich in vitamins A and C, it supports immune health and skin vitality. Additionally, the high fiber content in squash aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, making this soup a wholesome choice for any meal. Coupled with coconut milk, which provides healthy fats, this recipe offers a balanced option that is as nutritious as it is tasty.
Moreover, using vegetable broth as a base enhances the soup's flavor without adding extra calories or fat. This makes the recipe suitable for various diets, including vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. By choosing fresh ingredients, you’re not only opting for a healthier meal but also supporting sustainability and local farmers.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of this squash soup recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize it according to your tastes or dietary needs. If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile. For an added nutritional boost, you can toss in some greens like spinach or kale right before blending.
If you want to make it heartier, adding cooked lentils or chickpeas can transform this soup into a more filling dish. Top it off with toasted pumpkin seeds or a dollop of yogurt for extra texture and flavor. The options are endless, allowing you to create a personalized bowl of comfort that suits your palate perfectly.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups 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
- Olive oil for sautéing
These ingredients come together to create a delicious and comforting squash soup.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
Add Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it warm for another 5 minutes before serving.
Serve the soup hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this squash soup with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal that is both satisfying and delightful. A nice, warm baguette or artisanal rolls can be perfect for dipping. You can also pair it with a fresh salad to balance the richness of the soup. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
For a more festive touch, consider garnishing the soup with a swirl of coconut milk or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds another layer of flavor to the dish.
Storage and Reheating
This squash soup stores well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Simply let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
If you find the soup has thickened too much after refrigeration, add a splash of vegetable broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency. This way, you won’t lose any of the delicious flavors and can enjoy a comforting bowl of soup anytime.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash works well for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
This squash soup is a delightful and easy recipe perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups 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
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it warm for another 5 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g