Squash Soup Blended Smooth
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Enjoy a warm bowl of creamy squash soup, perfect for any season.
This delicious squash soup is a comforting dish that's easy to make and perfect for chilly evenings. With its smooth texture and rich flavor, it's sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, velvety texture that's incredibly satisfying
- Nutritious and packed with vitamins
- Versatile for any meal - serve it as a starter or a main dish
The Benefits of Squash Soup
Squash soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Butternut squash, the star of this recipe, is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber. This makes it an excellent choice for supporting your immune system and promoting healthy digestion. Including more vegetables like squash in your diet can help improve overall health and well-being.
Moreover, squash soup is low in calories while being high in flavor, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Whether you are watching your weight or simply looking for a wholesome meal, this creamy soup fits the bill perfectly. It offers a comforting and satisfying experience without the extra calories typically found in heavier dishes.
Versatility in Serving
One of the great things about squash soup is its versatility. It can be served as a starter for a fancy dinner party or as a main dish for a cozy weeknight meal. Pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying lunch, or elevate it with a drizzle of cream and roasted seeds for a gourmet touch.
Additionally, this soup can easily accommodate various dietary preferences. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to include more plant-based meals in your diet, this recipe can be customized to suit your needs. You can even add extra vegetables or proteins to make it heartier, allowing everyone to enjoy a bowl.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in luck! Squash soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Simply let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This makes it easy to have a healthy meal ready to go throughout the week.
When it comes to reheating, you can gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If you prefer, you can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl. Just be sure to cover it loosely to allow steam to escape, ensuring that the soup heats evenly without boiling over.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious squash soup:
Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Make sure you have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your smooth squash soup:
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot. Stir in the ground cumin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Pour in the vegetable broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 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 countertop blender.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your creamy squash soup!
Enjoy this delicious soup with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal!
Cooking Tips for Success
To achieve the best flavor in your squash soup, opt for fresh ingredients whenever possible. Choosing ripe butternut squash will enhance the sweetness and overall taste of the soup. If you’re unsure how to choose a good squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, unblemished skin.
Additionally, don't skip the spices! The ground cumin and nutmeg add depth and warmth to the dish. You can adjust the spices to your personal preference, adding more or less depending on your taste. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also lend a delightful kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Garnishing Ideas
Garnishes can elevate your squash soup from good to extraordinary! While fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives add a burst of color and freshness, consider topping your soup with a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a dollop of cream for added richness.
For crunch, you can sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds or croutons on top before serving. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a delightful contrast in texture, making each spoonful a delightful experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash for this recipe?
Yes, frozen squash can be used, just make sure to thaw it before cooking.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or a splash of apple cider for sweetness.
Squash Soup Blended Smooth
Enjoy a warm bowl of creamy squash soup, perfect for any season.
Created by: Katherine Blake
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot. Stir in the ground cumin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Pour in the vegetable broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 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 countertop blender.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your creamy squash soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 6g