Healthy Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Delight in the warmth of this nourishing Healthy Squash Soup, perfect for chilly days.
This Healthy Squash Soup is a comforting dish that highlights the natural sweetness of squash, enhanced with fragrant spices.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that feels indulgent but is still healthy
- Packed with vitamins from fresh vegetables
- Perfect for meal prep or as a quick weeknight dinner
The Health Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is a nutrient powerhouse, rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and vision. Additionally, it contains antioxidants that help fight inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. This versatile vegetable is also high in fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, making it a great choice for those looking to manage their weight.
Incorporating butternut squash into your diet not only enhances your meals but also contributes to overall health. Its natural sweetness makes it an excellent base for soups, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish without the need for added sugars or heavy creams. This Healthy Squash Soup is a perfect way to embrace the benefits of squash while indulging in a creamy texture.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a dinner party, meal prepping for the week, or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this Healthy Squash Soup is an ideal choice. Its easy preparation and delicious flavor make it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it can be paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that satisfies both hunger and taste buds.
This soup also shines in colder months, providing warmth and comfort when you need it most. It's a great way to incorporate seasonal produce into your meals, allowing you to enjoy the unique flavors and nutrients that butternut squash offers during autumn and winter.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Healthy Squash Soup:
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Healthy Squash Soup:
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 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.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!
Now that your soup is ready, enjoy it with crusty bread or a side salad.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Healthy Squash Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Its flavors often deepen and develop further, making it even more enjoyable the next day. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. When properly stored, the soup can last for up to three months in the freezer.
When you're ready to enjoy your soup again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup appears too thick after freezing, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water while reheating to achieve your desired consistency.
Customization Tips
One of the best things about this Healthy Squash Soup is its versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Adding spices like nutmeg or ginger can introduce a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the squash beautifully. You might also consider tossing in other vegetables such as carrots or sweet potatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
For a protein boost, you can stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas before blending. If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños can spice things up. The options are endless, allowing you to make this soup uniquely yours while maintaining its healthy profile.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash works well too; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ How can I make this soup creamier?
Add a splash of coconut milk or regular cream before blending for a richer texture.
→ Can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is entirely plant-based if you use vegetable broth.
Healthy Squash Soup
Delight in the warmth of this nourishing Healthy Squash Soup, perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Aubrey Whitman
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
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
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 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.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g