Squash Soup Fall Comfort
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm yourself up this fall with our creamy Squash Soup, the perfect comfort food for chilly days.
This Squash Soup is a delightful fall classic that combines the natural sweetness of squash with warming spices. It's not just a dish; it's a hug in a bowl!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms your soul
- Rich and savory flavors with a hint of sweetness
- Perfectly spiced for a cozy autumn meal
The Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This vibrant vegetable is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and immune function. Additionally, it contains antioxidants that combat oxidative stress, making it a great choice for fall cooking.
Incorporating butternut squash into your diet can also support heart health due to its high fiber content. Fiber helps regulate cholesterol levels and promotes digestive health. Plus, the natural sweetness of the squash makes it a delightful ingredient in soups, providing a comforting flavor that is perfect for cold weather.
Seasonal Spices for Cozy Flavors
The spices used in this squash soup, particularly ground ginger and cinnamon, add warmth and depth to the dish. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can aid digestion, making this soup not only tasty but also beneficial for your overall health during the chilly months.
Cinnamon, on the other hand, adds a natural sweetness and warmth that evokes the essence of fall. Its aromatic qualities can enhance your mood and create a cozy atmosphere in your kitchen. Together, these spices transform the soup into a comforting bowl that warms both body and spirit.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This creamy squash soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad, making it an excellent choice for a full meal. For a heartier option, consider adding a protein source such as grilled chicken or chickpeas to elevate the dish further.
To make it a festive fall feast, serve your soup alongside roasted vegetables or a platter of seasonal cheeses. The vibrant colors and flavors will not only impress your guests but also create a warm and inviting dining experience.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious squash soup:
Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to start making this comforting soup!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to prepare your squash soup:
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, stirring well. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer until the squash is tender, about 20 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Once the squash is cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and mix it back in.
Add Coconut Milk and Spices
Stir in the coconut milk, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and season with salt and pepper. Heat the soup through for another 5 minutes, adjusting seasoning as necessary.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the soup warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of squash soup!
Now that your soup is ready, it's time to enjoy a warm bowl of fall comfort!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover squash soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture. If the soup thickens upon cooling, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or coconut milk to achieve your desired consistency.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above.
Nutrition Facts
This squash soup is not only delicious but also offers a nutritious profile. Each serving is low in calories yet high in fiber, making it a filling option that helps curb hunger. The inclusion of coconut milk adds healthy fats, which can help keep you satisfied longer.
Additionally, the vitamins and minerals from the butternut squash and the spices contribute to a well-rounded meal that supports your health during the fall season. Enjoying a bowl of this soup can provide you with essential nutrients while comforting your soul.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes, you can use acorn squash or pumpkin as alternatives.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, as long as you use vegetable broth, this soup is vegan-friendly!
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
Squash Soup Fall Comfort
Warm yourself up this fall with our creamy Squash Soup, the perfect comfort food for chilly days.
Created by: Lucy Bennett
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, stirring well. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer until the squash is tender, about 20 minutes.
Once the squash is cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and mix it back in.
Stir in the coconut milk, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and season with salt and pepper. Heat the soup through for another 5 minutes, adjusting seasoning as necessary.
Serve the soup warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of squash soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g