Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
A comforting and creamy squash soup that makes for a perfect weeknight dinner.
This squash soup is a delightful blend of flavors and is easy to whip up on a busy weeknight. It’s nutritious and satisfying, making it a go-to recipe for families.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms you up
- Sweet and savory flavors that delight the palate
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
A Wholesome Choice for Dinner
Squash soup is the epitome of comfort food, especially on a chilly evening. It's not just a delicious option; it’s also packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, providing a boost to your immune system while giving you a hearty meal. This soup is a fantastic way to incorporate seasonal produce into your diet, making it a great choice for health-conscious individuals and families alike.
This recipe is designed with the busy home cook in mind. The simplicity of the ingredients allows you to whip up a delicious meal in no time. With just a few steps and minimal prep, you can have a warm, comforting bowl of squash soup ready to serve in under an hour. It's perfect for those weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of this squash soup is its versatility. While this recipe provides a solid foundation, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. For example, if you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. Alternatively, you can incorporate other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving suggestions are also plentiful. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, croutons, or a fresh salad. If you want to elevate it further, consider garnishing with roasted pumpkin seeds, fresh herbs, or a swirl of pesto. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a staple in your weeknight rotation.
Make Ahead and Store
This squash soup is not only quick to prepare but also keeps well, making it an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for up to three months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
If you decide to freeze the soup, consider leaving out the cream or coconut milk until you're ready to serve. This will help maintain the soup's texture and flavor. When reheating, adding a splash of broth or water can help achieve your desired consistency. Enjoy the convenience of having a wholesome meal ready to go on those busy days!
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup cream or coconut milk for serving (optional)
Enjoy your delicious squash soup!
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash and cumin to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes.
Simmer the Soup
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Blend and Serve
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, drizzled with cream or coconut milk if desired.
Garnish with fresh herbs if you like!
Serving Suggestions
For a delightful presentation, serve your squash soup in a bowl and garnish it with a drizzle of cream or coconut milk. A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or chives, adds a pop of color and freshness that enhances the dish’s appeal. Pair your soup with a slice of toasted baguette or a side salad for a well-rounded meal that is sure to impress family and friends.
Consider serving the soup with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for added creaminess and tang. You can also top it with roasted seeds or nuts for a satisfying crunch. These simple additions not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish more visually appealing, turning a simple soup into an elegant dinner.
Nutritional Benefits
Butternut squash is a powerhouse of nutrition. It's low in calories yet high in fiber, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, it contains antioxidants that can help combat inflammation, thus promoting overall health. The creamy base of this soup, whether from cream or coconut milk, adds healthy fats that contribute to satiety and flavor.
The inclusion of garlic and onion in this recipe not only adds depth to the flavor but also offers various health benefits. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, while onions provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Together, these ingredients make this squash soup not just delicious but also a nourishing choice for any night of the week.
Cooking Tips
When selecting butternut squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, blemish-free skin. This indicates freshness and ensures optimal flavor. If you're short on time, you can also find pre-cut squash in grocery stores, saving you prep time without sacrificing too much on quality.
If you prefer a deeper flavor, consider roasting the squash before adding it to the soup. This caramelization process brings out the natural sweetness and adds a rich depth to the overall dish. Simply toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, roast until tender, and then proceed with the recipe as directed.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can use acorn squash or pumpkin as a substitute.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
Simply use coconut milk instead of cream and ensure your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
A comforting and creamy squash soup that makes for a perfect weeknight dinner.
Created by: Lila Morgan
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
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 ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup cream or coconut milk for serving (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed butternut squash and cumin to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, drizzled with cream or coconut milk if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g