Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This easy weeknight squash soup is a perfect blend of flavors and comfort, making it ideal for a cozy dinner.
This squash soup is not only easy to make but also packed with nutritious ingredients. It's perfect for a quick weeknight meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms your soul
- Rich flavors that come together effortlessly
- Healthy and satisfying for any time of year
The Perfect Comfort Food
Squash soup is a quintessential comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. This easy weeknight version combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with savory ingredients, creating a delightful balance of flavors. It's not just a meal; it's an experience that wraps you in a cozy blanket of taste, perfect for chilly evenings.
The creamy texture of this soup is achieved effortlessly with the addition of coconut milk, giving it a luxurious feel without the need for heavy cream. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a rich soup while keeping it light and healthy. Each spoonful is a reminder of the simple joys of home-cooked meals.
A Versatile Dish for Any Season
This squash soup is not only easy to prepare, but it also shines in any season. Whether it's a crisp autumn evening or a chilly winter night, the warm flavors will comfort you. Plus, the ingredients are often available year-round, making this a go-to recipe whenever you're in need of a quick, healthy dinner option.
Feel free to customize this soup according to your preferences. You can add spices like ginger for an extra kick or toss in some greens for added nutrition. Its versatility allows you to be creative, ensuring that you never get bored with this classic dish.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
One of the best aspects of this squash soup is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and store portions in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. Just let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can last up to five days in the fridge or three months in the freezer, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal anytime.
When reheating, simply warm the soup on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If the soup thickens too much during storage, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. This flexibility makes it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir for a few minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes, or until squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
Add Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk and heat through. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk or a sprinkle of herbs if desired.
Nutritional Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It's an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting good vision. Additionally, the fiber content in squash aids in digestion, making this soup a wholesome option for your diet.
Moreover, the use of coconut milk adds healthy fats to the dish, which can help keep you satiated and support brain health. This combination of ingredients not only satisfies your hunger but also nourishes your body, making this soup a guilt-free indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your squash soup experience, consider topping it with roasted seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds, for added crunch. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also enhance the flavors beautifully. Pair the soup with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal that will impress your family and friends.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes or a swirl of sriracha can add a delightful kick. This soup is versatile enough to accommodate various tastes, ensuring that everyone at the table will find something to love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as frozen squash may cook faster.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes while cooking.
→ Can I substitute coconut milk?
Yes, you can use heavy cream or another non-dairy milk if preferred.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
This easy weeknight squash soup is a perfect blend of flavors and comfort, making it ideal for a cozy 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 cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir for a few minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes, or until squash is tender.
Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
Stir in the coconut milk and heat through. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g