Healthy Butternut Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This healthy butternut squash soup is a warm, comforting dish that's packed with nutrients and flavor. Perfect for a cozy evening or a light lunch!
Butternut squash soup is a classic fall dish that is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. This recipe enhances the natural sweetness of the squash while keeping it creamy and satisfying.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, velvety texture that warms the soul
- Packed with vitamins and minerals
- Easy to make and perfect for batch cooking
A Nutrient Powerhouse
Butternut squash is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly nutritious. Rich in vitamins A and C, this vibrant orange vegetable supports your immune system and promotes healthy skin. Additionally, it’s a great source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. By incorporating butternut squash into your diet, you're not just enjoying a tasty meal; you're also giving your body the essential nutrients it needs.
This soup is an excellent way to utilize seasonal produce. In the fall and winter months, butternut squash is plentiful, making it a great choice for hearty meals. Pairing it with other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes can elevate the flavor profile while enhancing the nutritional value. This makes the soup not only comforting but also a smart choice for your overall health.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best aspects of this butternut squash soup is its suitability for meal prepping. You can easily make a large batch and refrigerate or freeze it for later. This is perfect for busy weekdays when you need a quick and healthy dinner option. Simply reheat and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness in minutes!
When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup can last up to a week in the fridge or three months in the freezer. Consider portioning it out for easy access during the week. This not only saves you time but also ensures you have a nutritious meal ready whenever you need it.
Versatile Serving Suggestions
While this butternut squash soup is delicious on its own, there are numerous ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Consider garnishing with a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds for added texture. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also brighten up the dish, adding a fresh note that contrasts beautifully with the rich soup.
For a heartier meal, serve the soup alongside crusty bread or a light salad. This not only complements the flavors but also adds a satisfying crunch or freshness to the meal. Whether you're enjoying it as a starter or a main dish, there are endless possibilities to customize your butternut squash soup experience!
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Feel free to add toppings like pumpkin seeds or a swirl of cream!
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the Squash and Broth
Add the cubed butternut squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 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 an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
Season and Serve
Season the soup with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Enjoy your healthy butternut squash soup with a slice of crusty bread!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe? Absolutely! Frozen butternut squash is a convenient alternative that still retains its nutritional value. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as it may take less time to become tender.
How can I make this soup vegan? This recipe is already vegan-friendly, but if you want to enhance the creaminess, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of vegan yogurt before serving. This will give the soup a rich, creamy texture without compromising its healthy profile.
Storage Tips
If you're planning to store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to spoilage. Remember to label your containers with the date, so you can keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
When reheating, do so gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, you can add a little vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. For microwave reheating, place it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze butternut squash soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.
→ What can I use instead of vegetable broth?
You can use chicken broth or water as a substitute.
→ Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Carrots, sweet potatoes, or celery can be great additions.
→ How long does this soup last in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Healthy Butternut Squash Soup
This healthy butternut squash soup is a warm, comforting dish that's packed with nutrients and flavor. Perfect for a cozy evening or a light lunch!
Created by: Rosie Mitchell
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed butternut squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
Season the soup with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g