Squash Soup for Fall
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Warm up this fall with a delightful bowl of squash soup, perfect for cozy evenings.
This squash soup is a celebration of fall flavors, featuring the natural sweetness of squash combined with savory herbs and spices.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture that's comforting on chilly days
- Natural sweetness from the squash with a hint of spice
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
The Benefits of Squash
Squash is more than just a delicious fall vegetable; it's packed with nutrients that can benefit your health. Butternut squash, in particular, is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and supporting your immune system. Additionally, it's high in fiber, which aids in digestion and can help keep you feeling full longer.
Adding squash to your diet can also contribute to heart health. The potassium found in squash helps regulate blood pressure, while the antioxidants present can reduce inflammation. Incorporating recipes like this squash soup into your weekly menu is a flavorful way to boost your overall well-being.
Perfect Pairings
This squash soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a crusty bread or a light salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can complement the rich, creamy texture of the soup, balancing the flavors beautifully.
If you want to elevate your dining experience, try adding some roasted seeds or nuts on top for a crunchy texture. Additionally, a drizzle of balsamic glaze can enhance the sweetness of the squash, making every spoonful a delightful treat.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, you’ll be pleased to know that squash soup stores well in the refrigerator. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to five days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
When reheating, you can do so on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. It's a great way to enjoy a cozy meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious soup.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Make sure you have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious squash soup.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash, cumin, ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 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 just half of the soup.
Add Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk (if using) and heat through. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy your warm bowl of squash soup, perfect for fall!
Nutritional Information
This squash soup is not only delicious but also a healthy choice. A typical serving provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making it a wholesome addition to your diet. The natural sweetness of the butternut squash, combined with the creamy coconut milk, creates a satisfying dish that is low in calories yet high in flavor.
With ingredients rich in vitamins and minerals, this soup can help you meet your daily nutritional needs. Incorporating such nutrient-dense foods into your diet can have lasting benefits for your health, especially during the fall and winter months when hearty meals are most comforting.
Customization Ideas
One of the best features of this squash soup recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your personal tastes or dietary restrictions. For instance, if you're looking for a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. Alternatively, for a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of ginger and cumin.
You can also experiment with different types of squash. While butternut is a favorite for its smooth texture and sweet taste, acorn or pumpkin can also be used for a unique twist. Each variety brings its own flavor profile, allowing you to create a soup that’s truly your own.
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, as long as you use vegetable broth and omit the coconut milk if desired.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Squash Soup for Fall
Warm up this fall with a delightful bowl of squash soup, perfect for cozy evenings.
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash, cumin, ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just half of the soup.
Stir in the coconut milk (if using) and heat through. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 3g