Squash Soup for Fall
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Warm up this autumn with a comforting bowl of squash soup, bursting with seasonal flavors.
This squash soup is the epitome of fall comfort food. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it's perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Squash Soup
- A delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors
- Creamy texture that warms your soul
- Perfectly spiced for the autumn season
The Essence of Autumn in a Bowl
As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of squash soup to embrace the spirit of fall. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of butternut squash, perfectly complemented by the warmth of spices like cinnamon. Each spoonful captures the essence of the season, making it an ideal dish for cozy evenings spent with family and friends.
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, especially as the colder months approach. This comforting soup not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul, making it a perfect addition to your autumn menu.
Versatile and Adaptable
One of the best features of this squash soup recipe is its versatility. While butternut squash is the star ingredient, you can easily swap it out for other seasonal squashes like acorn or pumpkin, adding your own twist to the dish. Feel free to play around with spices, too. A touch of nutmeg or a hint of cayenne can add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
This soup is also easily customizable for various dietary preferences. If you're looking for a vegan option, the recipe is already plant-based with the use of coconut milk. You can even add proteins like chickpeas or lentils to make it heartier, or toss in some greens for an extra nutritional boost.
A Perfect Pairing
When served with a slice of crusty bread or a warm grilled cheese sandwich, this squash soup becomes a complete meal that satisfies the palate. The creamy texture of the soup pairs wonderfully with crunchy toppings like toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture. Consider drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze on top for a touch of acidity that cuts through the creaminess.
For a heartwarming dinner, serve this soup alongside a fresh salad featuring seasonal ingredients like roasted beets, apples, and walnuts. The combination of flavors will create a delightful dining experience that celebrates the bounty of fall.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Make sure to prepare all your ingredients before you start cooking!
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a splash of 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.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree.
Add Coconut Milk and Seasoning
Stir in the coconut milk and ground cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 5 minutes.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious squash soup!
Storage and Reheating Tips
This squash soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a convenient option for meal prep. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing individual portions. Just ensure the soup is completely cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy your soup, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. If the soup appears too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutritional Benefits
Butternut squash is a nutrient powerhouse, offering a rich source of beta-carotene, which our bodies convert into vitamin A. This vitamin is crucial for maintaining healthy vision and skin. Moreover, it's high in fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, making this soup a wholesome choice for any meal.
Additionally, the coconut milk adds creaminess without the dairy, making it a great alternative for those who are lactose intolerant. This ingredient also contains healthy fats that can help absorb fat-soluble vitamins, making your meal even more nutritious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, you can use frozen squash to save time. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly! Just ensure your vegetable broth is vegan.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables.
Squash Soup for Fall
Warm up this autumn with a comforting bowl of squash soup, bursting with seasonal flavors.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a splash of 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 to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree.
Stir in the coconut milk and ground cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 5 minutes.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g