Squash Soup for Fall
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Warm up with this delicious squash soup, perfect for the chilly fall days.
This comforting squash soup is a staple in our household every fall. The sweetness of the squash combined with warm spices makes it an instant favorite!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms the soul
- Rich and earthy flavors that celebrate fall
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
A Taste of Fall
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of squash soup to embrace the flavors of fall. This recipe embodies the essence of the season, featuring the natural sweetness of butternut squash, complemented by warm spices like cinnamon and ginger. Each spoonful delivers a comforting taste that evokes memories of cozy evenings spent with loved ones.
Squash is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, along with fiber, making it a healthy addition to your diet. This soup is an excellent way to incorporate seasonal produce into your meals, helping you stay connected to the harvest while also nourishing your body.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This squash soup is not only delightful but also incredibly versatile for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for later use. This makes it a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you need a quick, nutritious meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch.
To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Adding a splash of coconut milk before serving can revive the creamy texture and enhance the flavors. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that will satisfy your hunger and warm your heart.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best things about this squash soup recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added depth of flavor and nutrition. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the soup's profile and give it an exciting kick.
If you're looking for a protein boost, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas to the mix. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also create a heartier dish, perfect for chilly evenings. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the soup to your personal taste and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
Enjoy the rich flavors of fall with this simple ingredients list!
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, ginger, and cinnamon to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 25 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 and season with salt and pepper. Heat through before serving.
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Storage Tips
To ensure the freshness of your squash soup, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 5 to 7 days. If you decide to freeze it, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen soup, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop. Stir well to combine any separated ingredients, and add a little extra coconut milk or broth if needed to restore its creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This squash soup is delicious on its own, but serving it with accompaniments can elevate your meal even further. Consider garnishing with toasted pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch and a boost of healthy fats. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, can also add a burst of color and freshness to each bowl.
For a more substantial meal, pair the soup with a side of hearty whole-grain bread or a simple green salad. The contrasting textures and flavors will create a fulfilling dining experience, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the fall season.
Nutritional Benefits
Butternut squash is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body. This vitamin is essential for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. Additionally, the fiber content in squash helps promote healthy digestion and can assist in maintaining a healthy weight.
Coconut milk adds a creamy texture while providing healthy fats that can help keep you satisfied for longer. Together, these ingredients create a soup that not only warms the soul but also supports your overall health, making it a perfect choice for your fall meals.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with acorn squash or pumpkin.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth and coconut milk.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
→ Can I freeze the leftover soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container.
Squash Soup for Fall
Warm up with this delicious squash soup, perfect for the chilly fall days.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Easy
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 ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
Add the cubed butternut squash, vegetable broth, ginger, and cinnamon to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 25 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 and season with salt and pepper. Heat through before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g