Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy squash soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days, offering a delightful blend of flavors and a velvety texture.
This creamy squash soup is not just delicious; it's a warm hug in a bowl. Made with fresh squash and spices, it's perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms your soul
- Balanced flavors of squash and spices
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
The Nutritional Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which are vital for maintaining healthy skin and vision. Additionally, it contains antioxidants that can help protect your body from oxidative stress and inflammation. Including this vibrant vegetable in your diet can contribute to overall health and well-being.
Rich in fiber, butternut squash can aid digestion and promote a feeling of fullness, making it a great addition to meals if you're looking to manage your weight. The natural sweetness of the squash, combined with the creamy texture of the soup, makes it an appealing option for both children and adults alike.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This creamy squash soup is an ideal candidate for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it throughout. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days and can be frozen for longer storage. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting bowl.
Meal prepping not only saves time but also ensures that you have a nutritious option readily available on busy days. Pair this soup with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that satisfies both your hunger and your taste buds.
Variations and Add-Ins
While this creamy squash soup is perfect as is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm, aromatic twist. You can also include other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added depth of flavor and nutrition.
For a bit of heat, try incorporating a dash of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes. If you're looking for extra protein, shredded chicken or white beans can be added to the soup, making it even more filling and satisfying.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother process.
Instructions
Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the Squash and Broth
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth and ground cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Once the squash is tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
Finish with Cream
Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently before serving.
Serve and Garnish
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!
Serve immediately, or let it cool and store in the fridge for later.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy squash soup is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving options. Pair it with a light salad, such as a mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette, to complement the rich flavors of the soup. A slice of freshly baked bread, whether it be sourdough or whole-grain, makes for a delightful accompaniment that enhances the entire dining experience.
For a heartier meal, consider serving the soup alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or a quiche. The combination of the warm, creamy soup and the crispy, cheesy sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings on a chilly day.
Storage Tips
To store any leftover creamy squash soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just be sure to use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion as the soup freezes.
When reheating, stir the soup well and add a splash of vegetable broth or water if it has thickened. This will help restore its creamy consistency and ensure that every bowl tastes just as good as the first.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash for this recipe?
Yes, frozen squash can be used as a convenient alternative. Just ensure it's thawed before cooking.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers would work well in this soup.
→ How long can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
This creamy squash soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days, offering a delightful blend of flavors and a velvety texture.
Created by: Adeline Morris
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Soup Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth and ground cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Once the squash is tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently before serving.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g