Squash Soup Thick and Creamy
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This rich and velvety squash soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, it will quickly become a favorite in your home.
This squash soup is a delightful blend of seasonal flavors that warms the soul. Perfect for a cozy evening, it showcases the natural sweetness of squash with a creamy texture that will leave you wanting more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and flavorful with a hint of spice
- Creamy texture that comforts the soul
- Easily customizable with your favorite toppings
Perfect for Any Occasion
This squash soup isn’t just for chilly days. Its rich flavor and creamy texture make it a fantastic choice for gatherings, cozy dinners, or even as a starter for a formal meal. You can impress your guests with its elegant presentation and delightful taste. Plus, it's an excellent way to use seasonal ingredients, ensuring that you make the most of fresh produce.
Whether you're serving it at a holiday dinner or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this soup is versatile. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that satisfies. Its comforting nature makes it a go-to recipe when you need a little warmth and cheer.
Health Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's an excellent source of vitamins A and C, both crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system. The fiber content in squash aids digestion and promotes gut health, making this soup not only a comfort food but also a nourishing choice.
In addition, coconut milk adds healthy fats that can benefit heart health and help keep you satiated. The spices, like cumin, not only enhance flavor but also offer anti-inflammatory properties. This soup is a perfect way to indulge in a hearty meal while still prioritizing your well-being.
Customization Ideas
One of the best features of this squash soup is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the flavor profile by adding different spices or ingredients. For a kick, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. If you prefer a sweeter soup, a drizzle of maple syrup can complement the squash beautifully.
Toppings are another area where you can get creative. Consider adding roasted chickpeas for crunch, a dollop of yogurt for creaminess, or sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this soup uniquely yours every time you prepare it.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish
- Pumpkin seeds
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro)
- Drizzle of olive oil
Gather all your ingredients and let's start cooking!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add the Squash
Stir in the cubed butternut squash and ground cumin. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the squash to absorb the flavors.
Simmer with 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 and Add Coconut Milk
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 5 minutes.
Serve
Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with pumpkin seeds, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy!
Make sure to enjoy this soup warm for the best flavor!
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover squash soup, you're in luck! It stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To preserve the soup's creamy texture, store it in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as liquids expand when frozen. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for a quick and satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
This squash soup pairs wonderfully with various sides. A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup. Alternatively, serve it with garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up every last drop.
For a more substantial meal, consider adding a protein source, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or a hearty grain like quinoa. This will turn your soup into a filling dish, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use another type of squash?
Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with acorn or pumpkin for a different flavor.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegan as it uses coconut milk and vegetable broth.
→ Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Squash Soup Thick and Creamy
This rich and velvety squash soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, it will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Created by: Daisy Webb
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish
- Pumpkin seeds
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro)
- Drizzle of olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the cubed butternut squash and ground cumin. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the squash to absorb the flavors.
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.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 5 minutes.
Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with pumpkin seeds, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 4g