Smooth Squash Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy and comforting smooth squash soup recipe is perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave a warm, nutritious dish.
This smooth squash soup is a delightful blend of seasonal flavors, perfect for warming you up on a cold day. Made with fresh squash and a few simple ingredients, it’s both nourishing and satisfying.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture that warms the soul
- Simple ingredients that create complex flavors
- Perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner
The Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and eyesight. The high fiber content in squash aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer, making it a perfect ingredient for a comforting soup.
In addition to its nutritional benefits, butternut squash adds a natural sweetness to dishes, balancing flavors beautifully. This versatility allows it to shine in both savory and sweet recipes, making it a staple in many kitchens. Incorporating squash into your meals can also help you increase your vegetable intake in a tasty way.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This smooth squash soup is an excellent option for various occasions. Whether it's a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, it brings warmth and comfort to the table. Its creamy texture and rich flavors are sure to impress your guests and make them feel right at home.
Moreover, this soup is ideal for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in the fridge or freezer for quick, healthy meals throughout the week. Simply reheat and enjoy, making it a convenient choice for busy days when you still want to eat something nourishing.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best things about this smooth squash soup is its adaptability. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños during the cooking process. Alternatively, you can enhance the flavor profile with herbs like thyme or rosemary.
If you're looking for additional protein, consider stirring in some cooked lentils or chickpeas before blending. This will not only boost the nutritional value but also make the soup more filling. Feel free to experiment with different toppings too; a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese can elevate the dish even further.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Smooth Squash Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: pumpkin seeds, fresh herbs
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process easier.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir for a few minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the squash is tender, about 20 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Once the squash is soft, remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Add Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently if needed.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings like pumpkin seeds or fresh herbs.
Enjoy your smooth squash soup with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal!
Storage Tips
When it comes to storing your smooth squash soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. If freezing, consider portioning it into smaller containers for easy reheating.
To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup appears too thick after freezing, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Pairing Suggestions
This creamy squash soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a light meal, serve it with a fresh green salad or a slice of crusty bread. A simple arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the soup beautifully.
For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or a savory quiche. The combination of flavors and textures will make for a satisfying and balanced meal that everyone will enjoy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with acorn or pumpkin.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already vegan as it uses coconut milk and vegetable broth.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
It pairs well with a fresh salad or a slice of artisan bread.
Smooth Squash Soup Recipe
This creamy and comforting smooth squash soup recipe is perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave a warm, nutritious dish.
Created by: Harriet Collins
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Smooth Squash Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: pumpkin seeds, fresh herbs
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat 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 and stir for a few minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the squash is tender, about 20 minutes.
Once the squash is soft, remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings like pumpkin seeds or fresh herbs.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g