Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This easy weeknight squash soup is creamy, comforting, and perfect for chilly evenings.
This squash soup is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that will delight your taste buds. Perfect for a quick dinner or a cozy lunch, you'll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
- Simple ingredients that come together quickly
- Versatile and can be customized with your favorite spices
The Perfect Comfort Food
As the weather cools down, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to provide comfort and nourishment. This squash soup is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal choice for chilly weeknights. The creamy texture envelops you in warmth, while the natural sweetness of the butternut squash offers a delightful flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
This soup is not just about flavor; it’s also packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, which supports a healthy digestive system. By incorporating wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy a meal that is both comforting and nourishing, ensuring that you feel good about what you’re eating.
Quick and Easy Meal Prep
In our fast-paced lives, finding time to prepare healthy meals can be challenging. This squash soup recipe is designed with simplicity in mind, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in no time. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, you can go from kitchen to table in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and fulfilling without spending hours cooking.
Additionally, this recipe is a great opportunity to involve family or friends in the kitchen. Kids can help with washing and peeling the squash, while others can take charge of stirring and blending. Cooking together not only makes the process more enjoyable but also creates lasting memories around the dinner table.
Customize to Your Taste
One of the best aspects of this squash soup is its versatility. While the recipe provides a solid foundation, it can easily be tailored to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add spices like cumin or nutmeg for an extra kick, or toss in some chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth. The creamy coconut milk pairs beautifully with a variety of flavors, making it an excellent canvas for your culinary creativity.
If you're looking to make the soup heartier, consider adding cooked lentils or beans. These ingredients will not only enhance the nutritional value but also provide additional texture and flavor. Whatever your preference, this squash soup can adapt to your needs, ensuring that every bowl is uniquely yours.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Feel free to add toppings like croutons or fresh herbs for extra flavor!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir for a few minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches.
Add Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Warm the soup over low heat until heated through.
Serve hot with your favorite bread or toppings.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This squash soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a great option for meal prep. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in individual portions. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave for a quick defrost.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your squash soup experience, consider serving it with a crusty piece of bread or a side salad. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup. Alternatively, pair the soup with grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic comfort food combination that everyone loves.
For a touch of gourmet flair, top the soup with a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds. These finishing touches not only enhance visual appeal but also add interesting textures and flavors that will impress your guests.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, frozen squash can be used. Just add it directly to the pot without thawing.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses vegetable broth and coconut milk.
→ What can I add for extra protein?
You can add cooked lentils or chickpeas for a protein boost.
Squash Soup Easy Weeknight
This easy weeknight squash soup is creamy, comforting, and perfect for chilly evenings.
Created by: Lila Morgan
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced butternut squash to the pot and stir for a few minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches.
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Warm the soup over low heat until heated through.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 4g