Low Calorie Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A delicious and healthy low calorie squash soup perfect for a comforting meal.
This low calorie squash soup is not only healthy but also incredibly flavorful. Made with fresh squash and a blend of spices, it's the perfect dish for a cozy dinner.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture without the calories
- Packed with vitamins from fresh vegetables
- Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner
Nutritional Benefits
This Low Calorie Squash Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Butternut squash is a powerhouse of vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. Additionally, it's rich in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
Incorporating this soup into your diet can help you meet your daily vegetable intake without adding excess calories. The combination of garlic and onion not only enhances the flavor but also provides anti-inflammatory properties, making this soup a wholesome choice for any meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this Low Calorie Squash Soup fits the bill perfectly. Its rich and creamy texture makes it an appealing option for guests, while its healthy ingredients keep it light and nutritious.
You can easily pair this soup with a fresh salad or whole-grain bread for a complete meal. Moreover, it's a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty bowl of soup throughout the week without fuss.
Customization Options
One of the great things about this squash soup is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to suit your taste. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some fresh ginger during the cooking process.
If you're looking to add more protein to the dish, you can stir in some cooked quinoa or beans after blending. This not only enhances the nutritional profile but also makes the soup even more filling, perfect for those chilly nights when you need something warm and satisfying.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to get started:
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your soup:
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Add the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot, stirring for a few minutes until it starts to soften.
Pour in the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don't have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Season and Serve
Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
Enjoy your healthy and delicious soup!
Storage and Reheating
This Low Calorie Squash Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors will actually develop further as it sits, making it even tastier on the second day. If you prefer to enjoy it later, it also freezes well for up to three months.
When reheating, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
For an added touch, consider garnishing your soup with a swirl of low-fat yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a refreshing flavor that complements the sweetness of the squash.
Pair this soup with a simple side salad or a slice of crusty whole-grain bread to round out your meal. A light drizzle of balsamic vinegar over the salad can elevate the flavors, creating a delightful dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash works well. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no dairy.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Low Calorie Squash Soup
A delicious and healthy low calorie squash soup perfect for a comforting meal.
Created by: Aubrey Whitman
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
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 olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot, stirring for a few minutes until it starts to soften.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don't have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 26g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 3g