Smooth Squash Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This smooth squash soup recipe is the perfect blend of flavors for a comforting meal.
This smooth squash soup recipe is not just a meal but an experience that warms your soul.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture combined with the natural sweetness of squash
- Perfectly spiced for a cozy, comforting dish
- Easy to make and great for meal prep
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's rich in vitamins A and C, both of which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and boosting the immune system. This vibrant vegetable also contains antioxidants that can help combat oxidative stress in the body, making it a great addition to your diet.
In addition to its nutritional benefits, butternut squash has a naturally sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with savory spices. This balance of flavors makes it an ideal base for soups and stews, offering a comforting warmth that’s perfect for chilly days. Plus, it's low in calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This smooth squash soup is versatile enough to be served at any time of the year. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe fits the bill. You can easily double the batch for larger gatherings or serve it as a starter for a more formal meal.
Moreover, this soup is an excellent choice for meal prep. It can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for several days, and it freezes well too. This means you can enjoy a warm, nutritious meal whenever you need it without the hassle of cooking from scratch each time.
Spice It Up
While the recipe includes ground ginger and cinnamon, feel free to experiment with additional spices to suit your taste. A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper can add an exciting twist to the flavor profile. Don't hesitate to get creative; the soup's base is forgiving and can accommodate various spices.
Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch. You can also incorporate toppings such as roasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to enhance both the presentation and flavor of the finished dish.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup coconut milk
Make sure to have all ingredients ready to make the cooking process smoother.
Instructions
Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot along with the vegetable broth, ginger, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Once the squash is cooked, remove from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a blender in batches.
Add Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup over low heat until warmed through.
Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Storage Tips
To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you wish to freeze the soup, it’s best to do so without the coconut milk added, as it may change texture when thawed. Simply add the coconut milk during reheating.
When reheating, do so gently over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming and prevent the soup from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If the soup thickens too much during storage, feel free to add a little vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This smooth squash soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or a quinoa salad. The contrasting textures and flavors will elevate your dining experience.
For a special touch, garnish each bowl with a swirl of coconut milk or a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen squash works well for this recipe. Just ensure it's thawed before cooking.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give it an extra kick.
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses vegetable broth and coconut milk.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Smooth Squash Soup Recipe
This smooth squash soup recipe is the perfect blend of flavors for a comforting meal.
Created by: Celeste Morgan
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Soup Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup coconut milk
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot along with the vegetable broth, ginger, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Once the squash is cooked, remove from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a blender in batches.
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup over low heat until warmed through.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g