Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A comforting and nutritious soup that showcases the natural sweetness of squash, perfect for any season.
This healthy squash soup is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals. It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a warm and hearty meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture without the heavy cream
- Naturally sweet and savory flavors
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
The Benefits of Squash
Squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Rich in vitamins A and C, squash supports your immune system and promotes healthy skin. It is also a great source of fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. Incorporating squash into your diet can contribute to overall wellness and vitality.
With its natural sweetness, squash can provide a satisfying alternative to heavier, cream-based soups. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a comforting dish without the extra calories. Plus, the vibrant color of squash adds visual appeal to your meals, making them more enticing.
Preparation Tips
When preparing squash, it's important to choose the right variety. Butternut and acorn squashes are popular choices for soups due to their sweetness and creamy texture once cooked. Always ensure that your squash is fresh, with firm skin and no blemishes, to get the best flavor and nutrition.
Peeling and cubing squash can be a bit tricky, but using a sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board can make the process easier. If you prefer, you can also roast the squash before adding it to the soup for a deeper flavor profile. Simply cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and roast it in the oven until tender.
Serving Suggestions
This Healthy Squash Soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of accompaniments. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or a slice of whole-grain bread. The soup's creamy texture makes it a perfect pairing with crunchy croutons or toasted pumpkin seeds, which add a delightful contrast.
For an extra boost of flavor, drizzle a little balsamic glaze or sprinkle some fresh herbs on top before serving. Experimenting with different garnishes can personalize your dish and elevate it for special occasions or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garnish with pumpkin seeds or croutons
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add Squash and Broth
Add the cubed squash to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it 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.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with optional pumpkin seeds or croutons.
Enjoy your healthy and delicious squash soup!
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover squash soup, storing it is easy! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in individual portions. Simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore its creamy consistency, as soups can thicken over time. Gently heat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through, and enjoy your delicious soup all over again!
Nutritional Information
This Healthy Squash Soup is not only tasty but also nutritious. Each serving is low in calories yet high in essential vitamins and minerals. The fiber content from the squash aids digestion, while the broth provides hydration without unnecessary calories.
Additionally, this soup is naturally gluten-free and can be easily adapted for vegan diets. By using vegetable broth and omitting any dairy, you can enjoy a wholesome meal that aligns with various dietary preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can substitute butternut squash, pumpkin, or any other variety you prefer.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this healthy squash soup is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store the leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Freeze the soup in individual portions for a quick meal option later.
Healthy Squash Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup that showcases the natural sweetness of squash, perfect for any season.
Created by: Aubrey Whitman
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garnish with pumpkin seeds or croutons
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed squash to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it 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.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with optional pumpkin seeds or croutons.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 3g