Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Healthy Squash Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish, perfect for cozy evenings.
This Healthy Squash Soup is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals. Made with fresh squash and a blend of spices, it’s a wholesome option that warms you up from the inside out!
Why You Will Love This Soup
- Creamy texture without the cream, thanks to the natural sweetness of squash
- Packed with nutrients and low in calories
- Perfect for meal prep and can be frozen for later use
A Wholesome Choice for Any Occasion
Healthy Squash Soup is not just a meal; it's a nourishing experience. With its vibrant color and rich flavor, this soup is ideal for chilly evenings or as a delightful starter for dinner guests. The combination of butternut squash and aromatic spices creates a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious eaters.
This soup also lends itself beautifully to customization. Whether you're looking to spice things up with chili flakes or add a touch of creaminess with coconut milk, the base recipe is versatile enough to accommodate your taste preferences. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s bound to satisfy.
Nutritional Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is packed with vitamins and minerals, making this soup not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It's rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy vision and boosting your immune system. Additionally, squash is high in fiber, promoting digestive health and helping you feel full longer.
Furthermore, the low-calorie count of squash makes it an excellent choice for those looking to manage their weight. By using whole, natural ingredients, this soup supports a wholesome lifestyle without compromising on flavor or satisfaction.
Meal Prep and Freezing Tips
One of the standout features of this Healthy Squash Soup is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and store portions in the fridge for up to five days, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a nourishing meal in minutes.
If you're looking to save even more time, consider freezing individual servings. Once the soup has cooled, transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags, and it will keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat. This way, you can always have a healthy, homemade option on hand!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Feel free to add toppings like pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 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 in batches to a regular blender.
Season and Serve
Stir in ground cumin, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Enjoy your deliciously healthy squash soup!
Serving Suggestions
While this Healthy Squash Soup is delicious on its own, you can elevate the experience with various toppings. Consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess, a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch, or some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of flavor. These enhancements not only make the soup visually appealing but also add interesting textures and tastes.
Pair the soup with a side of crusty whole-grain bread or a simple salad to create a complete meal. This combination is perfect for cozy dinners or when hosting friends and family.
Storage and Reheating
To ensure the best quality, store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will maintain its flavor and texture for about five days. If you notice the soup thickening as it sits, simply add a bit of vegetable broth or water when reheating to achieve your desired consistency.
When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between, to ensure even warming. Enjoy your Healthy Squash Soup warm for the best taste and comfort.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can use acorn squash or pumpkin as alternatives.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already vegan! Just ensure your vegetable broth is plant-based.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
→ What goes well with this soup?
Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Healthy Squash Soup
This Healthy Squash Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish, perfect for cozy evenings.
Created by: Aubrey Whitman
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 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 in batches to a regular blender.
Stir in ground cumin, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 3g