Low Calorie Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Enjoy a delicious and healthy bowl of low calorie squash soup, perfect for warming up on chilly days.
This low calorie squash soup is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and nutrients. It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while keeping your calorie count low.
Why You'll Love This Soup
- Creamy texture without the calories
- Rich in vitamins and minerals from fresh squash
- Perfectly spiced for a comforting flavor
- Quick to prepare, making it a great weeknight meal
Nutritional Benefits of Squash
Squash is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Butternut squash, in particular, is rich in vitamins A and C, which are vital for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. This low-calorie soup allows you to enjoy these health benefits without the extra calories, making it a perfect addition to your diet.
Additionally, squash is high in fiber, promoting digestive health and helping you feel full longer. Incorporating this vibrant vegetable into your meals can support weight management and overall well-being. Enjoying this soup as part of a balanced diet can contribute to your nutritional needs while satisfying your taste buds.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This low-calorie squash soup is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether you're enjoying a quiet evening at home, hosting a dinner party, or preparing a meal for lunch at work, this soup fits the bill. Its comforting flavors and creamy texture make it a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both adults and children alike.
Additionally, this soup can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. Feel free to add other vegetables or spices to the mix, allowing you to customize the flavor profile and make it uniquely yours. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for any meal plan or dietary requirement.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This low-calorie squash soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and let it cool before sealing. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just heat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned. This makes it a fantastic meal prep option, ensuring you always have a healthy meal on hand.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
These ingredients will create a delicious and nutritious soup that's low in calories.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 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 only half of the soup.
Season and Serve
Stir in ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of low calorie squash soup!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your low-calorie squash soup, consider serving it with a slice of whole-grain bread or a side salad. These additions can enhance the meal's nutritional value while keeping it light and satisfying. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, can also brighten the dish and add a pop of color.
For a little extra flair, drizzle a swirl of yogurt or coconut cream on top before serving. This not only adds creaminess but also a touch of richness that complements the flavors beautifully. Your guests will be impressed by the presentation and the delightful taste!
Variations to Try
While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to play around with different variations. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce during the blending process. This will give your soup an exciting twist that spicy food lovers will appreciate.
You can also experiment with different types of squash, such as acorn or pumpkin, for a different flavor profile. Mixing in other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes can add sweetness and depth to the soup. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that you'll never tire of this comforting dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash will work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Low Calorie Squash Soup
Enjoy a delicious and healthy bowl of low calorie squash soup, perfect for warming up on chilly days.
Created by: Aubrey Whitman
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Add the diced butternut squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
Stir in ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 2g